Our Forerunner and Forever Priest – Hebrews 6:20
Oct 4, 2025 25
[19] We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, [20] where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. (ESV)
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Jesus, Our Forerunner
It’s striking that Hebrews calls Jesus a “forerunner.” This is the only time the word appears in the New Testament. A forerunner is someone who goes ahead so that others can follow. That’s what Jesus has done. He hasn’t just entered God’s presence for Himself – He’s gone there for us.
Kent Hughes notes in his Hebrews Commentary that in the ancient world, forerunners could be harbour scouts: small boats sent ahead to carry the anchor safely into the harbour so that the larger vessel could be drawn in securely. That’s like what Jesus has done. He has taken the anchor of our hope into the very presence of God. If He is there, we can be sure we will follow.
Jesus, Our Forever Priest
Verse 20 also reminds us that Jesus has “become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” The writer introduced this title in chapter 5 and will unpack it fully in chapter 7. For now, note the emphasis on ‘forever’. Earthly priests came and went. Their work was never finished. But Jesus’ priesthood is eternal. He intercedes for you right now, and He will never stop. Your access to God is secure, not because of your performance but because of His permanent priesthood.
Certain Hope
When you put these truths together, you see why our hope is unshakable. Jesus has gone ahead as our forerunner, so our future is guaranteed. Jesus lives forever as our high priest so that nothing can threaten our access to God. That means you don’t need to live in fear of the unknown. You don’t need to be paralysed by uncertainty about tomorrow. Your confidence isn’t tied to your health, your job, or your performance –it’s tied to Christ, who has already secured your future.
And it means you can face suffering with endurance. You can walk through seasons of doubt without despair. You can even face death with hope, because your forerunner has gone ahead into resurrection life. You have already spiritually followed Jesus there, and one day, you will physically follow Him there, too.
And remember, this hope isn’t just personal – it’s shared. When you find refuge in Christ, you become part of His city of refuge. In this community, weary sinners stand secure together in the confidence of their forerunner and forever priest.
This is certain hope. It isn’t wishful thinking or vague optimism. It’s rock-solid assurance rooted in Jesus – our forerunner and forever priest. And as chapter 7 will show (follow along next week!), this forever priesthood changes everything for our salvation.
Reflection
What fears or uncertainties feel heavy for you right now? How would they look different if you faced them knowing that Jesus has already gone ahead as your forerunner and intercedes for you as your forever priest?
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