14. It is clear that our Lord came from the family line of Judah. Moses said nothing about priests who were from that tribe.
15. But suppose another priest like Melchizedek appears. Then what we have said is even more clear.
16. He has not become a priest because of a rule about his family line. He has become a priest because of his powerful life. His life can never be destroyed.
17. Scripture says, "You are a priest forever, just like Melchizedek." (Psalm 110:4)
18. The old rule is done away with. It was weak and useless.
19. The law didn't make anything perfect. Now a better hope has been given to us. That hope brings us near to God.
20. The change of priests was made with an oath. Others became priests without any oath.
21. But Jesus became a priest with an oath. God said to him, "The Lord has taken an oath and made a promise. He will not change his mind. He has said, 'You are a priest forever.' " (Psalm 110:4)
22. Because of that oath, Jesus makes the promise of a better covenant certain.
23. There were many priests in Levi's family line. Death kept them from continuing in office.
24. But Jesus lives forever. So he always holds the office of priest.
25. People now come to God through him. And he is able to save them completely and for all time. Jesus lives forever. He prays for them.
26. A high priest like that meets our need. He is holy, pure and without blame. He isn't like other people. He does not sin. He is lifted high above the heavens.
27. He isn't like the other high priests. They need to offer sacrifices day after day. First they bring offerings for their own sins. Then they do it for the sins of the people. But Jesus gave one sacrifice for the sins of the people. He gave it once and for all time. He did it by offering himself.