Basic TrainingBible MinistriesGene CunninghamBasic Training Bible Ministries KBKnowledge Base

What is the priesthood of the believer?

The priesthood of the believer is the believer's relationship to God (1 Pet. 2:5–9). Every believer is a priest to God and possesses the right to represent himself before the throne of grace.

This priesthood is private, occurring between the individual and the Lord. Believers function as priests through prayer, which is their communication to God, and the study of the Word, which is God's communication to them.

Because this approach is built on confession, believers can walk boldly into the throne room of God, knowing they have been redeemed and every sin has been paid for (Heb. 4:16). God desires for believers to live face-to-face with Him (Heb. 10:19–22). The believer's responsibility is to pray (Heb. 13:15; 1 Thess. 5:17–19), stay in fellowship (1 Cor. 11:28–32; 1 John 1:7–9), and grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Pet. 3:18).

Also asked: What are the responsibilities of being a priest to God?
Also asked, more loosely
How to communicate directly with God as a priest? · Can a Christian live in close relationship with God through prayer and Bible study?

Source: The Basics The Basics -- Subject Index entry 'Priesthood of the believer' (printed pp. 86, 87) · Read this lesson in the book →

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