7:14 7:14

Hebrews 7:15

7:16 7:16

Bible Versions

And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,
And {G2532} it is {G2076} yet {G2089} far more {G4054} evident {G2612}: for {G1487} that after {G2596} the similitude {G3665} of Melchisedec {G3198} there ariseth {G450} another {G2087} priest {G2409},
It becomes even clearer if a “different kind of cohen,” one like Malki-Tzedek, arises,
And this point is even more clear if another priest like Melchizedek appears,
And what we say is yet more abundantly evident, if after the likeness of Melchizedek there ariseth another priest,

Context of Hebrews 7:15

Hebrews chapter 7 is a pivotal section in the epistle, systematically arguing for the superiority of Jesus Christ's priesthood over the Levitical priesthood established under the Mosaic Law. The author has already introduced Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:1-3, highlighting his mysterious, king-priest role that predated the Levitical system. Prior to verse 15, the text explains why the Levitical priesthood, based on genealogical descent from Aaron, was insufficient for bringing perfection (Hebrews 7:11) and therefore necessitated a change in the law and the emergence of "another priest." Verse 15 emphasizes that this need for a new order of priesthood, patterned after Melchizedek, is not merely suggested but "far more evident" as the argument progresses.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Superiority of Christ's Priesthood: The central message is that Jesus' priesthood is fundamentally different and superior to the temporary, earthly Levitical system. It is not based on human lineage or adherence to the Mosaic Law, but on an indestructible life and divine appointment.
  • The Melchizedekian Order: This verse underscores the unique nature of Jesus' priesthood, which is "after the similitude of Melchisedec." This order is eternal, without recorded beginning or end, and serves as a divine pattern for Christ's everlasting ministry, as prophesied in Psalm 110:4.
  • Necessity of a New Priest and Covenant: The clear evidence for the rise of "another priest" implies that the old priestly order was insufficient. This shift in priesthood directly relates to the establishment of a new and better covenant, mediately by Christ, which provides true and lasting access to God.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Similitude" (Greek: homoiotēta): This term signifies a profound likeness or resemblance, not just a superficial similarity. It emphasizes that Jesus' priesthood mirrors Melchizedek's in its essential characteristics—its non-Levitical nature, its divine origin, and its eternal quality—rather than being a direct lineal succession. It's a likeness in kind, demonstrating a divine pattern.
  • "Ariseth" (Greek: anistatai): This verb denotes a rising up, an emergence, or being established. It conveys the idea of a new, divinely ordained, and decisive appearance of a priest who fulfills the prophecy and supersedes the former order.

Practical Application

Hebrews 7:15 offers profound assurance for believers today:

  • Confidence in Christ's Eternal Ministry: We can have unwavering confidence in Jesus as our High Priest. His priesthood is not subject to death or change, meaning His intercession for us is constant and eternally effective (Hebrews 7:24-25).
  • Direct Access to God: Because of Christ's superior priesthood, believers no longer need earthly priests or repeated sacrifices. We have direct, unhindered access to God's presence through Him.
  • Understanding God's Progressive Plan: This verse helps us appreciate how God progressively unfolded His redemptive plan, moving from the shadows and types of the Old Testament to the ultimate reality and perfection found in Jesus Christ.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 110:4

    The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.

  • Hebrews 7:11

    ¶ If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need [was there] that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?

  • Hebrews 7:17

    For he testifieth, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

  • Hebrews 7:21

    (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)

  • Hebrews 7:3

    Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.
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