Hebrews 7:21

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

(for [Levitical] priests were appointed without [God] taking [such] an oath, but Christ was appointed with an oath by God when He said to Him [Psa. 110:4], “The Lord made a vow and will not change His mind [when He said], ‘You are a priest forever’).”

Cross References

Romans 11:29

For God does not change His mind about the gifts He gives and the people He calls [to Him].

Hebrews 5:6

And He says in another place [Psa. 110:4], “You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.” [Note: This is the first mention of this mysterious Old Testament priest who, throughout this book, is represented as a type of Christ].

Hebrews 7:17

For it is declared [about Jesus in the Scriptures, Psa. 110:4], “You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.”

Hebrews 7:20

And this was not done without the taking of an oath [by God],

Hebrews 7:23

And on one hand, many people were appointed to be [Levitical] priests because they were prevented by death from continuing [to serve]. [Note: The idea is that Levitical priests had to be constantly replaced].

Hebrews 7:28

For the Law of Moses appoints [morally] weak men to be head priests, but the message of [God’s] oath, which came after that law [Note: The quotation from Psa. 110:4 (See verse 21) was written after the Law of Moses was given] appointed the Son, who was made perfect [in every way] forever.