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“..but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood.  Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” (Hebrews 7:24-25)

I’m captivated lately by the priesthood of Jesus.  Hebrews is an awesome book! 

Anyway, I got to thinking about this verse and how it relates to other religions.  Here’s the thing about other religions.  Over the years, I’ve gained a great deal of empathy for people of different religions (or none at all).  Not because of the “tolerance movement” (which has its pros and cons), but because I remember what it was like to be looking for something that would help me make sense of my life and the world around me.  I also remember a time when I was totally indifferent about spiritual matters.  But also, over the years I have gained the great conviction that true Christianity, centered on Christ is, at its core, so different from other religions.  Why?  Because Jesus is able to save completely.

I think it would be silly to pretend that other religions don’t have great ideas.  The basic tenets of Taoism and Buddhism are quite brilliant.  The love and respect for all living things that Rastafarianism offers is admirable. There are many examples.  And in one sense or another, all of these religions have something to offer.  But complete salvation can only be found in Jesus, because he lives forever.  And because he lives forever, his priesthood, which is his ministry of mediation between God and man, endures forever.  He has sacrificed once and for all for the sin of mankind, and we need only come to God through Jesus.  And when we do, Christ our priest makes uninterrupted intercession for us.  And because Jesus intercedes to  God for  us, we will be saved entirely.  Completely. 

I happen to think this is quite glorious.