Definition: Whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
Explanation: Okay, letās break down this really interesting passage from Hebrews 6:20. Itās a bit complex, but we can understand it as a powerful promise about Jesus Christ. Hereās what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that Jesus Christ preceded (went before) the Old Testament law and priests. Think of it like this: The Old Testament laws were important, but they weren't enough to truly offer forgiveness or make people right with God. Jesus came as a substitute ā He was the āhigh priest for everā ā to fulfill those laws perfectly. Letās unpack it piece by piece: āWhither the forerunner is for us enteredā¦ā : The "forerunner" in this context refers to the priests who served before the true, perfect Christ. They were precursors - they led the way. ā[even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever afterā¦ā : Jesus fulfilled that role ā He became the high priest. A high priest is someone who offers a special and sacred service ā in this case, offering sacrifice to cleanse sins. āthe order of Melchisedecā : This refers to a specific line of priests who were very important in the Old Testament, known for their purity and righteousness. So, what does it all mean? Jesus Christ preceded the Old Testament law and priests, and then He fulfilled that role ā He became the ultimate high priest! This is a key point because: It shows Jesusā perfect righteousness: Because He came before the law, He's not just following it; Heās perfectly obeying it. It promises forgiveness: The Old Testament laws couldnāt bring about forgiveness for our sins. Jesusā sacrifice did that ā He offered a spotless and utterly pure offering to cleanse us of sin. In short, this verse is saying Jesus Christās coming was essential to the fulfillment of Godās plan for salvation. It's a really significant promise about the ultimate role of Jesus in our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give you an analogy that helps you understand it better? Answer any specific questions you might have about it?