12. When the order of the priest changes, there has to be a change in the Law as well.
13. The person we are talking about belongs to another tribe, and no one ever served at the altar from that tribe.
14. It’s clear that our Lord came from the tribe of Judah, but Moses never said anything about priests from that tribe.
15. And it’s even clearer if another priest appears who is like Melchizedek.
16. He has become a priest by the power of a life that can’t be destroyed, rather than a legal requirement about physical descent.
17. This is confirmed: You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.
18. On the one hand, an earlier command is set aside because it was weak and useless
19. (because the Law made nothing perfect). On the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God.
20. And this was not done without a solemn pledge! The others have become priests without a solemn pledge,
21. but this priest was affirmed with a solemn pledge by the one who said, The Lord has made a solemn pledge and will not change his mind: You are a priest forever.
22. As a result, Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant.
23. The others who became priests are numerous because death prevented them from continuing to serve.
24. In contrast, he holds the office of priest permanently because he continues to serve forever.