5For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.
Pivotal is this verse in changing how we do religion—that is, how we approach living and interacting with God. Religions in general present God as being high and exalted, far beyond the human experience. We need, according to popular religious thought, special people who are defined as holy, who have an inside track with God. Thus the idea of priesthood and saints has played a prominent role in the religious lives of many. Since the average person is not nearly holy enough to approach God, a special class of mediators is put into service to approach deity on their behalf.
In fact, God did give OT Israel the Aaronic priesthood to represent the people to God. So there was some legitimate need for a priestly class of individuals to officiate at the sacrificial rituals that proliferated in ancient Israel.
But that all changed when Jesus came on the scene. Our verse here is central to the discussion about how to approach God. We now have only one mediator. We do not need any other priests, or even saints to intercede for us. Some think Mary, who was the earthly mother of Jesus, makes an effective mediator for our needs, for, as the thinking goes, how could Jesus refuse His own mother? However, the Bible never teaches this; in fact, today’s verse tells us the exact opposite: Jesus is the one and only mediator. We do not need any other. Why would we even want another intermediary when we can go directly to God through His Son?
The writer of Hebrews makes clear that our Lord is the “great high priest, who passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God” (Heb. 4:14). Further, he writes, “Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them” (Heb. 7:25).
Those who pray to saints or engage human priests insult the Lord Jesus Christ, about whom the writer of Hebrews wrote:
For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Heb. 4:15–16)
Lord God, what a privilege and honor we have to approach You only through Your Son.
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