Hebrews 6:20
Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
Hebrews 6:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Hebrews highlights the significance of Jesus as our eternal high priest after the order of Melchisedec. The term "forerunner" refers to Jesus who has gone before us, paving the way for our salvation and serving as our advocate before God. By entering into the heavenly sanctuary on our behalf, Jesus intercedes for us and grants us access to the presence of God. The reference to Melchisedec, an ancient priest-king in the Old Testament, emphasizes the eternal nature of Jesus' priesthood. Unlike the Levitical priests who served temporarily and were limited by human constraints, Jesus' priesthood is unchanging and everlasting. This verse reassures believers that Jesus has secured our salvation and continues to intercede for us, ensuring our eternal relationship with God.
Theological Overview
Hebrews 6:20 speaks of Jesus being our forerunner who has entered the heavenly sanctuary on our behalf. This theological interpretation emphasizes Jesus' role as the pioneer of our faith, paving the way for us to follow Him into the presence of God. The reference to Jesus being made a high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec alludes to the unique and eternal priesthood that Jesus holds. This draws a parallel between Jesus and Melchisedec, who was both a king and a priest, symbolizing the completeness of Jesus' role as our Savior and Mediator. In the context of word studies, the phrase "forerunner" carries the connotation of someone who goes ahead to secure a safe passage for others. Similarly, the term "high priest" denotes Jesus' role as our representative before God, constantly interceding on our behalf. Overall, Hebrews 6:20 highlights the unparalleled significance of Jesus' priesthood and His ability to lead us into the presence of God.
Hebrews 6:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
whither as a forerunner Jesus entered for us, having become a high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.
World English Bible
where as a forerunner Jesus entered for us, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.
Douay-Rheims
Where the forerunner Jesus is entered for us, made a high priest for ever according to the order of Melchisedech.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Whither the forerunner is for vs entred in, euen Iesus that is made an hie Priest for euer after the order of Melchi-sedec.