THE NEW PRIESTHOOD by Pastor Jim Buckman
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I pray you and yours are well.
Pentecost this year will be observed in our worship services on the weekend of May 23-24. I am looking forward to sharing with you from God’s word.
Pentecost is the 3rd time in Scripture that God’s imminent presence is visibly seen in connection with the chartering of worship. The 1 time was at the dedication of the Tabernacle of Meeting (Exodus 40:34-38); the 2 time was at the dedication of the Temple (1 Kings 8:10-11 also 2 Chronicles 7:1-2). So, this occasion is very special.
Also, just to clear up something – the outpouring of the Holy Spirit most likely occurred at the Temple. Oftentimes it is depicted as happening in the upper room; but the text does not say “upper room” it says “house” and the Temple is the house of the LORD. From a practical point of view- the assembly of 3,000+ people would have been much easier to happen in the courtyard of the Temple. Also, the disciples would have been at the Temple at 9am (Acts 2:15). And perhaps finally- to Baptize 3,000 people would have required the use of the mikvahs surrounding the temple mount.
A very interesting connection between the 2 and 3 visible manifestations of God re worship are the 120 priests mentioned in 2 Chronicles 5:11-12. Because at Pentecost, there are 120 disciples (Acts 1:15); I feel that they were also speaking in known languages that day & that it would make sense for them to have helped in the Baptizing of the 3,000+ God is present with us today in Word & Sacrament. He gives us all we need for His work. The Priesthood of the Baptized have a central role in sharing the Good News, 7 days a week.
We praise God for all He is doing and we pray for His continued blessings on our work here. Your friend in Christ, Pastor Jim