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The new priesthood differs from that of the Levitical order in one grand particular.
The Levitical priest was made:--
"After the law of a carnal commandment" (verse 16),
but the Melchisedec order was made:--
"After the power of an endless life" (verse 16).
One more item is added before this section concludes, and that is that not only does
the change of priesthood necessitate the setting aside of the law, but the necessity to have
such a change indicates the failure of that law so far as "perfection" is concerned:--
"There is, moreover, a setting aside of preceding law, because it was inefficient and
unprofitable" (verse 18).
In verse 16 the law was spoken of as "carnal". While viewed in itself the law is holy,
just and good, that the law is "weak through the flesh", and though "ordained to life" will
be found "unto death" (Rom. 7:). The sentiment of Heb. 7: 11 is repeated in 8: 17:--
7: 11-18.
| a | Question.--"If perfection were by the Levitical order?"
b | What need for another priesthood?
c | The law abrogated, as weak and profitless.
8: 7, 8.
| a | Question.--"If the first covenant were faultless?"
b | No need for seeking a second covenant.
c | Finding fault, He said, "I make a new covenant".
The theme of the first passage (7: 11-18) is the better priesthood, the theme of the
second (8: 7, 8) is the better covenant.
All this was necessary to clear the way for a faith that would behold with single eye
the Lord Jesus Christ a prophet, priest, king and sacrifice, and the "perfecter of faith".
Salvation unto the uttermost,
or what the law could not do (7: 19-25).
No perfection is possible under the Levitical priesthood, therefore the greater reason
for thankfully believing Him Who is a priest after the order of Melchisedec. Such is the
argument and conclusion of 7: 11-18. In verse 11 there is a parenthesis, viz., "for under
it the people received the law"; this parenthesis is now brought forward and dealt with in
the same way as was the Levitical priesthood:--
"For the law perfected nothing (or no one), but the superinduction of a better hope (did), through which
we draw night to God" (verse 19).