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"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, 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 the 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 same 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: 7:
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 | What 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 as 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 or maturity 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 nigh to God" (verse 19 not AV JP).
The three items of this verse characterize the whole section of 7: 19 - 9: 8:
(1)
The failure of the law.
(2)
The better hope, wherewith are connected better promises and a better covenant.
(3)
Access to God. Positively stated to be through Christ (7: 25). Denied throughout the
typical dispensation (9: 8).