The Priesthood of All Believers: Direct Access and Divine Mandate
The doctrine of "the priesthood of all believers" stands as a foundational truth of the New Covenant, liberating believers from the need for human mediation and empowering them with direct access to God through Jesus Christ. This profound truth, often obscured in religious tradition, is clearly articulated in the King James Version of the Bible, revealing a radical shift from the Old Testament Levitical system to a spiritual priesthood encompassing every born-again child of God. It is a doctrine that not only grants immense privilege but also places significant responsibility upon each believer.
From Exclusive to Inclusive Priesthood
In the Old Testament, the priesthood was an exclusive office, reserved for the tribe of Levi and specifically the lineage of Aaron. These priests served as mediators between God and the people, offering sacrifices, interceding, and teaching the Law. Their ministry was essential for the atonement of sins and the maintenance of a relationship with a holy God. However, this system, though divinely ordained for its time, was a shadow of greater things to come, pointing to the ultimate High Priest.
With the advent of Jesus Christ, the entire sacrificial and priestly system was fulfilled and rendered obsolete. Christ, being both God and man, offered Himself as the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:28). He is our great High Priest, who has passed into the heavens, ever living to make intercession for us (Hebrews 4:14; Hebrews 7:25). His finished work on the cross tore the veil of the temple from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51), signifying that the way into the Holiest of Holies—God's direct presence—was now open to all who would believe.
Scriptural Foundation for the Believer's Priesthood
The New Testament unequivocally declares that all believers are priests. The Apostle Peter, addressing scattered Christians, proclaims their new identity:
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
This verse is paramount. Peter applies titles once given exclusively to Israel as a nation (see Exodus 19:6) to the church, the body of Christ. We are a "royal priesthood," indicating both our regal standing in Christ and our priestly function. We are also called to be "an holy nation" and "a peculiar people," set apart for God's purposes.
John's Revelation echoes this truth, emphasizing the priestly role bestowed upon us by Christ's redemptive work:
And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
And again, in a vision of heavenly worship:
And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
These passages confirm that our priestly status is a direct result of our redemption through Christ's blood. We are not merely passive recipients of grace but active participants in God's kingdom, with a divine mandate to serve Him directly.
Furthermore, we are described as building a spiritual house, offering spiritual sacrifices:
Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
This "holy priesthood" is not a select few, but the collective body of believers, who, as "lively stones," are continually being built up into a dwelling place for God's Spirit.
The Responsibilities of the Believer-Priest
With the privilege of priesthood comes significant responsibility. Our priestly duties are not ceremonial sacrifices of animals, but spiritual offerings that are pleasing to God through Jesus Christ. These include:
As priests, our lips are to be instruments of worship and adoration. Hebrews 13:15 exhorts us: "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name." Our praise is not merely an emotional expression but a conscious, deliberate offering to God, acknowledging His worthiness and goodness.
The Apostle Paul urges believers to a radical commitment in Romans 12:1: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." This means dedicating our entire being—our time, talents, resources, and very lives—to God's service. It is a continuous act of surrender and obedience, transforming us into His likeness.
Alongside praise, good works are also a priestly offering. Hebrews 13:16 states: "But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased." Our practical acts of love, charity, and sharing with those in need are spiritual sacrifices that demonstrate our faith and bring glory to God.
As priests, we have direct access to the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16). This access empowers us to intercede for others, bringing their needs before God in prayer. The prayers of the righteous avail much (James 5:16). Every believer has the privilege and duty to pray for the church, for leaders, for the lost, and for the world.
The purpose of our royal priesthood, as stated in 1 Peter 2:9, is "that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light." This involves evangelism, sharing the good news of salvation, and testifying to the transformative power of Christ in our lives. Our lives are to be a living testimony to God's glory.
Implications for the Church and Individual Believer
The doctrine of the priesthood of all believers has profound implications for how we understand the church, ministry, and our individual walk with God:
- Direct Access to God: No human mediator is needed between God and the believer. We approach God directly through Christ (Ephesians 2:18; Hebrews 10:19-22). This eliminates any hierarchical system that places a human priest or clergy as essential for receiving grace or forgiveness.
- Equality in Ministry: While distinct roles and gifts exist within the church (1 Corinthians 12:4-7), all believers are equally called to ministry and service. Every member is a minister, contributing their unique gifts to the body of Christ for the edification of others.
- Personal Responsibility for Spiritual Growth: Since each believer is a priest, they are personally responsible for studying God's Word, praying, worshiping, and living a holy life. There is no delegation of spiritual duties to a specialized class.
- Mutual Ministry and Edification: The church functions as a community of priests, ministering to one another, teaching, encouraging, and admonishing in love (Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 10:24-25).
- Holiness in Daily Life: The call to be a "holy priesthood" extends beyond the walls of a church building into every aspect of life. Our daily activities, work, relationships, and decisions are to reflect our consecrated status and bring glory to God (Colossians 3:17).
Conclusion
The priesthood of all believers is not merely a theological concept but a living reality for every true follower of Christ. It is a testament to the completed work of Jesus, who has opened the way to God and empowered His people to serve Him directly. As royal priests, we are privileged to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise, service, and our very lives, to intercede for others, and to boldly proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us. This understanding fosters a vibrant, engaged, and responsible Christian life, where every believer recognizes their high calling and actively participates in God's redemptive plan for the world, all to the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ.