The Priesthood, Objections Against It, and Its Proof – Part 1
✝️ First: Objections to the Priesthood
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the main objections revolve around two ideas:
-
That Christ alone is the priest and there is no human priesthood.
-
That all believers are priests, and therefore no special priesthood is needed.
📖 Second: Biblical Response to the Idea of “Priesthood of All”
His Holiness explains verses such as “a royal priesthood” in a symbolic and spiritual sense, clarifying that they do not refer to sacramental priesthood, but rather to the general spiritual priesthood expressed through prayer, praise, and offering oneself spiritually.
This does not cancel the sacramental priesthood responsible for the Eucharistic sacrifice.
🔔 Third: Difference Between Spiritual and Sacramental Priesthood
-
Spiritual priesthood: shared by all believers through prayer, praise, good works, and spiritual struggle.
-
Sacramental priesthood: a special divine calling given to specific persons for defined roles within the Church, such as administering the sacraments.
🛐 Fourth: Priesthood as a Divine Calling
His Holiness affirms that priesthood is not a personal right but a divine calling and selection, as Scripture states: “No one takes this honor to himself, but he who is called by God.”
He cites Old Testament examples (Korah, Dathan, and Abiram; Saul; Uzziah) to show the danger of unlawfully assuming priestly roles.
📜 Fifth: The Old Testament Was Not Abolished
His Holiness stresses that the Old Testament was not abolished but fulfilled in the New Testament.
The Sabbath, circumcision, sacrifices, and feasts were symbols whose spiritual essence was completed in Christ, without abolishing their underlying divine principles.
✨ Sixth: Continuity of the Priesthood in the New Testament
His Holiness proves the continuation of priesthood through:
-
Christ being the High Priest, which implies priests under His headship.
-
The continuation of the Holy Sacrifice (Eucharist), which requires priesthood.
-
St. Paul referring to himself “as a priest.”
-
Prophecies concerning offering incense and sacrifices among the nations.
⛪ Seventh: Priesthood Is a Distinct Group, Not for All
He concludes by emphasizing that priesthood:
-
Is not for all believers, but for a chosen group.
-
Is marked by calling, anointing, laying on of hands, ranks, and specific responsibilities.
-
Holds authority over sacraments, teaching, and church administration.
For better translation support, please contact the center.
