Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

HEBREWS 6:20KJV
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Hebrews 6:20 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 6:20 mean?

Hebrews 6:20 says that Jesus has gone ahead of us as a "forerunner," entering into God's presence and becoming a high priest forever in the same way as Melchizedek. This verse highlights Jesus' unique and permanent role as a priest who represents people before God.

The writer of Hebrews is encouraging Jewish believers who may feel uncertain or discouraged. By mentioning Jesus as a "forerunner," the verse paints a picture of someone who leads the way and makes it possible for others to follow. The reference to Melchizedek connects Jesus to an ancient priestly order that is different from the traditional Jewish priesthood, emphasizing that Jesus' priesthood is eternal and not limited by time or ancestry.

The Greek behind Hebrews 6:20

  • "forerunner" (πρόδρομος, prodromos): This word means someone who goes ahead to prepare the way for others. In the context of this verse, it suggests that Jesus has entered God's presence first, making it possible for others to follow.
  • "order" (τάξις, taxis): This word refers to a set arrangement or sequence. Saying Jesus is a priest "after the order of Melchisedec" means his priesthood follows a different pattern than the traditional Levitical priests, highlighting its uniqueness and permanence.
  • "for ever" (αἰών, aiōn): This word often means "eternity" or "an unending age." The verse uses it to stress that Jesus' priesthood is not temporary but lasts forever.

Why Hebrews 6:20 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that Jesus' role as high priest is just a temporary or symbolic position; instead, it is a lasting and effective priesthood.
  • By calling Jesus a "forerunner," Hebrews 6:20 emphasizes that believers are meant to follow where he has gone, suggesting hope and access to God's presence.
  • The connection to Melchizedek helps readers understand that Jesus' priesthood is not based on family lineage or temple rituals, but on a unique, God-given appointment that fulfills and surpasses the old system.

Where else these words appear

“order” Greek G5010 · used in 9 verses

  • Luke 1:8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,
  • Colossians 2:5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.
  • Hebrews 7:11 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood,(for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?

“Melchisedec” Greek G3198 · used in 9 verses

  • Hebrews 5:6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
  • Hebrews 7:1 For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
  • Hebrews 7:15 And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,

“Whither” Greek G3699 · used in 77 verses

  • Matthew 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
  • Mark 16:6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
  • John 14:4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

“ever” Greek G165 · used in 102 verses

  • Matthew 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
  • Acts 15:18 Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.
  • Hebrews 5:6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.