Priesthood and boldness

Hebrews 4 ends on a strong note, with the injunction to be bold, which can mean "not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possible danger or rebuff" (dictionary.com).

5 introduces us to Melchizedek, previously mentioned in Genesis 14 as "king of Salem" and "priest of the most high God".

The role of the Hebrew priest was to mediate between God and the people.

Julie Swannell