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Introduction:

This is part of our ongoing journey through Fr. Thomas Hopko’s podcast series, The Names of Jesus. In this study, we deepen our understanding of the various titles and attributes of Jesus, enriching our spiritual growth and theological insight.

In alignment with this year’s OCF theme, “Jesus, The King of All,” today’s discussion will focus on the chapter titled Jesus the Great High Priest. Though the Gospels never explicitly state it, the portrayal of Jesus as the High Priest is a profound and recurring theme. Christ’s sacrificial death on the Cross serves as the ultimate high priestly offering, reconciling all things with God and enabling God to fill all of creation with Himself. In this chapter, Fr. Thomas explores the numerous references to Jesus as the Great High Priest, drawing from the depth of Scripture. We invite you to listen to the podcast episode and reflect on it with your chapter.

Questions for Discussion:

  1. How does Fr. Hopko describe the role of the Great High Priest in the Old Testament, and how does Jesus fulfill or surpass this role in the New Testament? How does this deepen our understanding of God’s relationship with humanity?
  2. How does Jesus’ role as the Great High Priest transform our understanding of the Eucharist and the Divine Liturgy?
  3. Fr. Hopko connects Jesus as the High Priest to the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9). How does this concept challenge or encourage your understanding of what it means to be a priest of creation?
  4. How does understanding Jesus as the Great High Priest impact your personal relationship with Him, particularly in your prayers or during times of struggle?
  5. How can we find hope in the eternal nature of Christ’s priesthood, especially when facing the fleeting nature of our lives on earth?

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