The Priesthood of Jesus: A Devotional Study Series (Part 1)

/ Michael Battle

Part One – The End of the Old Priesthood, A Devotional Study Guide

The Intersection of Two Priesthoods

“He taketh away the first, that He may establish the second.” — Hebrews 10:9

1. The False Accusations

Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:59–61; John 2:19

On the night Jesus was betrayed, history shifted in a quiet courtroom.
Before the high priest Caiaphas stood the very One who would fulfill the Law and open a new way to God. As the false accusations flew, the old order of sacrifices and priestly rituals was about to give way to something far greater—the perfect High Priest who would offer Himself as the final sacrifice for sin.

Christ stood silent before earthly priests so that we might boldly approach the throne of grace.

Reflection Questions:

  • When have you seen God’s words misunderstood or misrepresented?
  • How does Jesus’ composure encourage you when you are misjudged?

2. The High Priest’s Demand

Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:62–63

Caiaphas demanded under oath that Jesus declare whether He was the Christ, the Son of God. Under the Law of Moses (Leviticus 5:1), the high priest had the authority to require a witness to speak truthfully.

Key Point:
Even when pressured unjustly, Jesus spoke truthfully and fearlessly, affirming His divine identity.

3. Jesus’ Declaration of His Authority

Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:64

Jesus replied:

“Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.”

This was unmistakable Messianic language (Psalm 110:1; Daniel 7:13–14).
In that moment, Jesus publicly declared Himself as the Messiah, the Son of God, and the rightful King.

Reflection Question:

  • What does it mean for you personally that Jesus sits at the right hand of power today?

4. The Tearing of the Garments

Scripture Reading: Matthew 26:65; Leviticus 21:10

The earthly high priest unknowingly acknowledged the arrival of the true High Priest—Jesus Christ.

The Act:

Caiaphas tore his priestly robes in outrage.

The Law:

The high priest was forbidden to tear his garments.

Doing so was considered an act of disqualification (Leviticus 10:6; 21:10).

The Symbolism:

By tearing his robe in the presence of Jesus, Caiaphas nullified his own priesthood.

Key Insight:

The earthly high priest unknowingly acknowledged the arrival of the true High Priest—Jesus Christ.

5. The Greater High Priest

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 7:23–27; 9:11–14

Jesus stood as both the Lamb of God to be sacrificed and the High Priest who would offer the sacrifice.
The old covenant priesthood was passing away; a new and better covenant was being established.

Reflection Question:

  • How does it strengthen your faith to know that Jesus Himself intercedes for you today as your High Priest?

Takeaway Verses for Meditation

Hebrews 4:14–16 – Our compassionate High Priest invites us to draw near.

Hebrews 10:11–14 – Jesus’ one sacrifice makes us perfect forever.

John 1:29 – “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”

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