5:5,6
Now the comparison with Christ is made. It is perhaps significant that previously the author has referred to Jesus the Great High Priest, now he calls Him Christ, ie the Messiah, or Anointed One. Jesus was anointed by the Father to be the Messiah. Christ did not choose Himself to be the High Priest, but God appointed Him. See also the link with Sonship. The first quote comes from Psalm 2:7, previously quoted, and the second from Psalm 110. Jesus is the Son and He is the high priest. Some may think that since He is the Son He cannot be a High Priest and so we still need priests. This is not so. Jesus is both Son and High Priest, because God has said so!
We have here the first reference to Melchizedek. A lot more will be said about Melchizedek in chapter 7, where it will be shown that there was going to be a priesthood that was far superior to the Levitical priesthood.
5:7
We in the West sometimes get a bit embarrassed by overly emotional displays. Well this verse shows that there is definitely a place for emotional and expressive prayers, for Jesus Himself did this! This may be referring to Gethsemane, but the phrase “in the days of His flesh” indicates that it is referring more generally to His earthly ministry. See also that He offered prayers to “him who was able to save Him from death”. While there is definitely a place for expressive prayers, these are not offered in desparation, but in faith. For we pray to the one who is able to save. Jesus also came in a reverent attitude. We must all come before God with the same attitude. If we do not we should not expect to be heard, but if we do come in faith and reverence we should come in confidence knowing we are safe in the hands of the God who is able to save.
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