The role of priests in the Bible is a significant and multifaceted one, serving as mediators between God and His people. The priesthood is established in the Old Testament and continues to hold spiritual significance throughout the biblical narrative.

Old Testament Priesthood

The priesthood is first formally established with Aaron and his sons in the Book of Exodus. God commands Moses to consecrate Aaron and his descendants as priests, setting them apart for sacred duties (Exodus 28:1). The primary role of the priests was to serve in the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, performing sacrifices and rituals to atone for the sins of the people. Leviticus 9:7 states, "Then Moses said to Aaron, 'Approach the altar and present your sin offering and your burnt offering, making atonement for yourself and the people.'"

Priests were responsible for teaching the Israelites God's laws and statutes. They were to distinguish between the holy and the common, and between the clean and the unclean (Leviticus 10:10-11). The priesthood was a hereditary office, passed down through the line of Aaron, and the Levites were appointed to assist them in their duties (Numbers 3:5-10).

Priestly Garments and Consecration

The garments worn by the priests were symbolic and significant, designed to reflect their holy service. Exodus 28 details the specific attire, including the ephod, breastplate, robe, and turban, each with its own symbolic meaning. The consecration of priests involved a series of rituals, including washing, anointing with oil, and sacrifices (Leviticus 8:6-12).

The High Priest

The High Priest held a unique and elevated position within the priesthood. He was the only one permitted to enter the Holy of Holies, the innermost part of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) to make atonement for the sins of the nation (Leviticus 16:32-34). The High Priest also wore distinctive garments, including the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim, used for discerning God's will (Exodus 28:30).

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the role of the priesthood is transformed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is described as the ultimate High Priest, who offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. Hebrews 4:14-15 states, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin."

The New Testament also introduces the concept of the priesthood of all believers, as seen in 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." This signifies that all believers have direct access to God through Christ and are called to serve Him in various capacities.

Priestly Functions in the Early Church

While the New Testament does not establish a formal priesthood akin to the Old Testament, it does recognize roles of leadership and service within the church. Elders and overseers are tasked with shepherding the flock, teaching, and maintaining doctrinal purity (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). The early church also practiced the laying on of hands and anointing with oil for healing and commissioning (James 5:14-15; Acts 13:3).

The role of priests, both in the Old and New Testaments, underscores the importance of mediation, sacrifice, and service in the relationship between God and His people. Through the priesthood, God provided a means for His people to approach Him, receive instruction, and maintain covenantal faithfulness.