KINGS AND PRIESTS UNTO OUR GOD

KINGS AND PRIESTS UNTO OUR GOD

Text: Rev. 1:6, 5:10; 1 Pet. 2:9

CHRIST AS KING OF KINGS AND HIGH PRIEST

In the New Testament, Jesus was revealed not only as the Savior but also as the supreme King of Kings (Revelation 19:16) and eternal High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16; 7:23–28). 

As King, Jesus reigns with divine authority over all creation, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah who would rule with justice, righteousness, and everlasting peace (Isaiah 9:6–7). 

Unlike earthly kings, His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36) but is eternal and spiritual, established in the hearts of His people. He governs with authority, justice and dominion.

As High Priest, Jesus serves as the perfect mediator between God and humanity. Unlike the Levitical priests, He offered Himself as the final, once-for-all sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 10:12). 

He continually intercedes for believers at the right hand of the Father, offering access to God through grace rather than ritual. His priesthood, in the order of Melchizedek, is eternal and unchanging (Hebrews 7:17).

Together, these roles affirm Jesus’ ultimate authority and His compassionate, redemptive ministry, ruling as sovereign King and serving as the ever-living Priest who intercedes for man and bring humanity into right relationship with God. 

This relationship with Christ as kings and priests can be better explained from Romans 8:17, the reason we are joint-heirs with Christ is because even God the Father has made us heirs with Him. 

All believers are children of God like Jesus, but He has a higher position as King of kings and High Priest, He is the firstborn and we are His brethren but as first born, He has a double portion of what we have like the senior brother of the prodigal son. 

That is why Jesus left behind all the virtues that God gave Him on earth before ascending back to heaven [John 17:22]. Believers now has all that God gave Jesus including the glory to use on planet earth, but distributed to all His brethren who have been made kings and priests.

KINGS AND PRIESTS: OUR IDENTITY AND CALLING IN CHRIST

Text: Revelation 1:5–6, Revelation 5:10, 1 Peter 2:9

Believers are made kings and priests after the order of Christ. Many believers know Jesus as Savior, King of kings and High Priest; but few of them fully grasp their identity in Him as kings and priests unto our God. Scripture reveals that through Christ’s redemptive work, we are not only saved, we are made kings and priests unto God. 

This is not symbolic; it is a spiritual reality with powerful implications for how we live and serve in the kingdom of God upon planet Earth. When Jesus Christ ascended to heaven, believers are to continue the kingship and priesthood work of Christ on planet earth. 

Like Jesus we are supposed to establish justice, order, defend the kingdom of God and represent His rule on earth. 

There are two kingdoms, the kingdom of heaven and the kingdom of this earth. The heaven of heavens belongs unto our God and He is the king of kings; the earth belongs unto the children of men who are kings and priests [Psa. 115:16]. 

Every king rule over a domain and have dominion and authority over that sphere. We have been made rulers over the earth realm and given back the rulership mandate over the earth realm whereby we reign over all beings in the sea, air and land [Gen. 1:28]. 

CHRIST, THE KING OF KINGS AND HIGH PRIEST   

Text: Revelation 19:16; Hebrews 4:14–16

Before we understand our own identity, we must understand who Christ is, as King of Kings, Jesus reigns with absolute authority (Matthew 28:18). As High Priest, He intercedes forever (Hebrews 7:25), offering the final sacrifice, Himself. Christ unites royal authority and priestly service in perfect harmony. Through His victory over sin and death, He established a new covenant whereby believers share in His nature and calling. 

WE ARE MADE KINGS AND PRIESTS

Text: Revelation 1:6, 5:10; 1 Peter 2:9; Exodus 19:6

Through Christ’s atonement on the cross, we were redeemed and positioned as kings and priests.

As kings, we are given spiritual authority. This means dominion over sin (Romans 6:14), boldness in prayer (Hebrews 4:16), and power to influence the world for God's Kingdom.

As priests, we minister to God and others. This includes prayer, worship, intercession, and living set apart and consecrated life. This is not a future promise alone, it is a present identity. “He has made us…” is past tense, indicating a completed act.

LIVING AS KINGS

We are given authority with humility and purpose. As kings, we reign in life through Christ (Romans 5:17), exercise spiritual authority by binding, loosing, and declaring God’s will (Matthew 18:18). We walk in boldness, not fear (2 Timothy 1:7). But unlike worldly kings, our rule is expressed through service, righteousness, and compassion (Mark 10:45). 

Believers are the political, military and spiritual leaders of God’s kingdom on earth. We govern the people, enforce laws of His kingdom, ensure justice, protect the realm that we occupy from enemies, managing resources and maintaining order; and have jurisdiction over powers that be. 

We must symbolize unity and authority. The first Adam was made the king and priest of Garden of Eden but this was lost through Adam but it was restored in Christ Jesus. Believers are now kings and Priests. 

We have even ascended to the heavenly places to sit with Christ on His Throne [Eph. 2:6] and we partake in the council meeting in heaven where we hear the strategy of God to turn this earth realm into the kingdom of God and we come back to earth to implement that which the council has set as pattern with which we will build the kingdom of God on earth with.

Kings rule over the people. Kings do not only rule over subordinates, their words carry power, remember where the word of the king is, there is power [Eccl. 8:4]. Kings make decrees, have absolute power in their jurisdiction and subordinates go forth to make sure that the decrees of the kings are carried out. 

King Darius and Cyrus both made decrees about rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem and it was carried out expressly [Ezra 6:1; Ezra 1:2-4]. Even king Nebuchadnezzar made decree in Babylon and it was carried out [Daniel 3:29, 4:1-18].

Kings do not lack. He has vast properties, wealth and riches; and have many subjects and slaves who work for Him. He gets the best of the spoils of war. The subjected kingdoms and their people are taken over as spoil of war and they pay royalties to the king. Remember Solomon, even the queen of Sheba came and gave unto Solomon. They have authority over many subjects including principalities and powers, both physically and spiritually speaking. 

Kings even in the bible engage in warfare with enemies and they synergize with other kings so that they can be a formidable force to win the war. Sometimes as many as five kings with their army join forces to fight the enemy. 

Even now in Eph. 6:10-12 we wrestle against principalities and powers, dominions and rulers of darkness and we supposed to join forces together to put them to flight. Remember one shall chase a thousand and two shall chase ten thousand. We must engage spiritual weapons to fight spiritual enemies.

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)” 2 Cor. 10:3-4  

However, we have the assurance that we will win the battle because the king of kings and innumerable numbers of angels are backing us up in battle.

LIVING AS PRIESTS

This expresses our service and ministry before God and for others. As priests, we offer spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter 2:5) through praise, obedience, thanksgiving, and present their bodies as holy, living sacrifice (Romans 12:1); and we stand in the gap through prayer and intercession (Ezekiel 22:30; Heb. 5:1). 

We proclaim the Gospel as ministers of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18–20). The priesthood is not just for pastors, every believer has access to the presence of God and has a ministry calling. 

As priests we are responsible for spiritual guidance, conducting worship and spiritual rituals, offering prayers and sacrifices, teaching morals and religious principles, and serving as intermediary between the people and the divine God. Priests guides the spiritual lives of the people. 

Priests often encounter the supernatural either by seeing and talking with God or His angels. In Luke 1:18-25, Zechariah a priest went in to burn incense in the temple and encounter Angel Gabriel. I make bold to say God is still using the ministry of angels to minister to priests. Heb. 1:14 said angels are ministering spirits, sent forth to help or minister to us, the heir of salvation.

“And it shall be unto them for an inheritance: I am their inheritance: and ye shall give them no possession in Israel: I am their possession” Ezek. 44:28

The priests, the Levites, sons of Zadok are the ones that God said He is their inheritance, meaning all that were to accrue to Him on earth including the tithe, first fruits, and offerings are to be the possession of the priests. 

Their work requires consecration and being set apart unto the Lord and so God take it as a responsibility to supply all their need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus, so that they can concentrate on doing their work without distraction.  

Priests have access to come boldly before the Throne Room of Grace where we can obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need [Heb. 4:16]. Priests bring down the glory of God when they have done things according to the specification of God. 

Moses and Solomon built according to pattern and the glory of God came down such that the priests could not minister in the sanctuary.

A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD WITH PURPOSE

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”1 Peter 2:9

God made us kings and priests not for status, but for purpose, to show forth His glory, minister His grace, and extend His Kingdom on earth. Please note that priests have been removed from darkness, we are now in the kingdom of light.

We are not powerless believers. We are kings with spiritual authority and priests with divine access and ministry. We live with the confidence, responsibility, and purpose that come from this God-given identity. We must let the world see the light of the King of kings and High Priest who lives in us that is Jesus Christ. 

We must embrace our identity and begin to walk in spiritual authority and priestly service. We must minister to the unbelievers to come to the King of kings who redeems and restores, making them part of His royal priesthood

Believers dominate, rule over and subject every other being and we have restored to us communion and fellowship with the Godhead through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

DUTIES OF KINGS AND PRIESTS

Below stated are the biblical duties of kings and priests, both in the Old Testament and as fulfilled in Christ, and now shared by believers today as part of their spiritual identity.

DUTIES OF KINGS

Biblical kings ruled under God's authority and served as shepherds of the people. Believers, as spiritual kings, are called to similar functions in the Kingdom of God. Kings do not lack, they have abundance of wealth, wisdom, knowledge and power. We have everything that pertains to life and godliness. [2 Peter 1:2-4]

1. Exercise Righteous Rule

Kings were expected to uphold justice and righteousness. … We are kings and priests and Christ has made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall REIGN on the earth. [Rev. 5:10] 

Scripture: Proverbs 16:12, 2 Samuel 8:15

Believers today are to make decisions that reflect God’s righteousness.

2. Lead with Wisdom and Integrity

Solomon asked for wisdom to govern God’s people (1 Kings 3:9). Believers must seek divine wisdom in leadership, family, and ministry.

3. Defend and Protect the Kingdom

Kings led battles and protected the nation (2 Chronicles 20:15–17). Spiritually, we wage warfare through prayer and truth against principalities and power, and demonic rulers (Ephesians 6:10–18).

4. Advance God’s Kingdom

Kings expanded and strengthened the territory. Believers evangelize and disciple to expand the reign of Christ on earth and make this earth realm to become the kingdom of our God.

5. Model Godly Character

A righteous king brought blessing; a wicked one brought destruction. [Proverbs 29:2]

Believers reflect Christ’s character in every sphere of life and continue to be transformed into His image from one level of glory unto another [2 Cor. 3:18]. The fruit of the Spirit must be paramount in their lives [Gal. 5:22-24].

It is an abomination to kings [and even priests] to do evil, for the throne is established by righteousness [Prov. 16:12 ESV]

DUTIES OF PRIESTS

Old Testament priests mediated between God and the people. In Christ, every believer is called to priestly service. Priests do not lack! The people of God bring all the offering unto the tribe of Levi and Levi do not lack. God told the Levites; I am your inheritance! [Num. 18:20]

1. Offer Sacrifices

Old Testament priests offered animal sacrifices (Leviticus 1–7). But believers offer spiritual sacrifices including praise (Hebrews 13:15), our bodies/lives (Romans 12:1) and good works and generosity (Hebrews 13:16). 

2. Intercede for Others

Priests prayed for the people and sought God’s mercy on their behalf (Exodus 28:29–30). Believers as priests are called to intercessory prayer (1 Tim. 2:1; Ezek. 22:30).

3. Teach and Preserve God’s Word

Priests taught the Law for example Ezra (Ezra 7:6-12; Malachi 2:7). Believers are called to share the Word, make disciples, uphold truth, prepare the people of God for the second coming of Christ [Matt. 28:18-20].

4. Minister in God’s Presence

Priests served in the Tabernacle/Temple (Exodus 28:1–3). Believers have direct access to God through Christ (Hebrews 10:19–22) and are called to minister through worship, prayer, and service. They are the New Testament temple of God.

5. Maintain Holiness

Priests had strict purity requirements (Leviticus 10:8–11). Believers are to live holy lives (1 Peter 1:15–16), set apart for God. We are a HOLY nation [1 Peter 2:9]. We must be holy so we do not become like Nadab and Abihu sons of Aaron who offered strange fire before God and were consumed. 

Priests have access and intimacy with God. In Heb. 1:9, we see Jesus, who was righteous and greater anointing was bestowed upon Him, for He hated iniquity.

Kings in New Testament, rule righteously, lead, protect, expand kingdom and reign in life, and have spiritual authority (Rom 5:17). As priests, we offer sacrifices, intercede, teach, worship, offer praise, pray, teach, and live holy (1 Pet 2:9)

POWER AND BLESSINGS OF BELIEVERS AS KINGS AND PRIESTS

Key Texts: Revelation 1:6, 5:10; 1 Peter 2:9; Romans 5:17; Ephesians 1:3

Believers as kings and priests are laden with spiritual power. Among other things they have…

1. Authority to Reign in Life

“...those who receive abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness will REIGN in life through the One, Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:17 

Believers have power over sin, fear, oppression, and darkness through Christ. We exercise dominion by declaring God’s Word, standing in faith, and advancing His Kingdom.

2. Access to God’s Throne

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace…” Hebrews 4:16 

As priests, we have direct, unhindered access to God for fellowship, prayer, and spiritual authority.

3. Power in Prayer and Intercession

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:16 

Priestly intercession shifts atmospheres, heals the sick, and brings breakthrough.

4. Anointing to Minister and Serve

We are chosen to declare God’s praises and represent Him on earth. [1 Peter 2:9] 

Every believer is empowered by the Holy Spirit [Acts 1:8] and serve with boldness and spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12:4–7).

5. Victory in Spiritual Warfare

“I have given you authority... over all the power of the enemy…” Luke 10:19 

Kings engage in spiritual battles and win through faith, the Word, and the blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11).

WHY SOME CALLED INTO THESE OFFICES DO NOT FULFILL THERE CALLING

There are many reasons why we do not enjoy our kingship and priesthood roles, one, we are ignorant of who we are by knowing God and what He make us to become in Him. [Dan. 11:32]. Such that knows God and knows who they are in Him do heroic acts or exploits like David killed lion and bear, Samson killed lion with bare hands or Abraham fought a conglomerate of five kings with their army and won fighting with only 318 trained servants. 

Elijah in James 5:16 knew who he was and exercise authority by inhibiting rain to fall for three and half years. We must not lack identity awareness of we really are as ordained by the Father in heaven. Let it not be said to us “My people are destroyed because of lack of knowledge [Hosea 4:6]

One other reason why believers do not manifest as kings and priests is that we do not walk in holiness by building up on our consecration. Jesus loved righteousness and walked in holiness and He was anointed above His fellows [Heb. 1:9; Psa. 93:5]. 

When Aaron and sons were consecrated unto God as priests, a turban with holiness unto our God written upon it was put on head and were cleansed and purged with water just as we are to be washed by the washing of the water by the word of God [Eph. 5:26]. 

Such are circumcised in heart, spiritually clean, not polluted nor living a blameful life. The highway to Mount Zion is called “Way of Holiness” [Isa. 35:8] and we must have clean hands and pure heart. [Psalm 24:3-4, 15:1-6]. 

We as the bride of the Lord must be arrayed in white and clean raiment [Rev. 19:8]. Believers are the New Testament temple of the Lord that must be most holy [Ezek. 43:12]. 

We must depart all that will cause pollution or contaminate us. For example, no root of bitterness by which many are desecrated [Heb. 12:14-16]

“Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD” Isa. 52:11  

We are set apart for sacred purposes, leading us to a place of dwelling or living a life of purpose and significance, holy and consecrated unto our God. Even Peter looked at the royal priests and called them a holy nation [1 Peter 2:9].

Other reason why we do not operate effectively in this office is because of fear, doubt, insecurity and intimidation. However, we must know that God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power, love and sound mind [2 Tim. 1:7]. 

Sin can hinder spiritual authority especially when kings and priests walk in compromise, their authority is weakened, A defiled altar or a corrupted throne cannot carry God’s power [1 Peter 1:16]. 

Some do not fulfill this calling because they lack the appropriate training or discipleship that operating in the office of a king by governing, leading or taking dominion or as a priest by interceding, ministering to God and unto His people. 

The bible is full of disciples who were properly trained, best example are the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ who trained them for three and half years and they eventually became apostles. Time will not permit to do an exegesis on Elijah and Elisha; Paul, Timothy, Silas, and Apollos; Moses and Joshua the son of Nun. 

There are some Church protocol, politics, doctrines and system and mindset that suppresses or block certain people from fulfilling their calling or embracing their-God given authority. Disobedience and rebellion are part of what stop some people from fulfilling this calling. 

Saul the king lost his kingship because he disobeyed God [1 Sam. 15]. Some shoot out of the timing set by God or lingered back when the time to operate in their calling has come. David had to wait about thirteen years for the process of his calling to be complete.

BLESSINGS OF BEING KINGS AND PRIESTS

1. Adoption into Royal Identity

“You are no longer a slave, but a son… an heir of God.” Galatians 4:7 

Believers are royalty, not by birthright, but by grace. Our spiritual inheritance includes peace, power, and purpose.

2. Spiritual Riches in Christ

“Blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places…” Ephesians 1:3 

We are equipped for every good work and never lacking in what we need to fulfill God’s call. These are not temporary, earthly benefits or worldly wealth. Believers are chosen by election [Eph. 1:4], adopted into the family of God [Eph. 1:5] and given all the rights and privileges of God’s children. We are redeemed and forgiven [Eph. 1:7], given revelation of God’s will [Eph. 1:9-10] and in Christ we have been given an inheritance [Eph. 1:11, 14]. 

Lastly here we have been sealed with the Holy Spirit [Eph. 1:13-14] who now enlightened us through the spirit of wisdom and revelation that we may know those things that are freely given to us [Eph. 1:17; 1 Cor. 2:12]

3. Priestly Fellowship and Holiness

We are set apart for intimate communion with God (Exodus 19:6; Hebrews 10:22). Holiness is both a command and a blessing, it draws us nearer to God and we reflect His nature.

4. Kingdom Impact and Eternal Reward

“We shall reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:10 

Our faithful service now leads to reward and rulership, even in this age. (2 Timothy 2:12; Matthew 25:21).

Believers are not powerless or purposeless. As kings and priests, we walk in authority, intimacy, and assignment. We reign with Christ over darkness and minister to God and others with grace and power. This is our inheritance and our calling

RESTORED DOMINION: THE KINGLY AND THE PRIESTLY ROLE OF ADAM RESTORED TO BELIEVERS

Key Texts: Genesis 1:26–28; Revelation 1:5–6; 1 Peter 2:9; Romans 5:17; Hebrews 4:14–16

When God created Adam, He endowed him with two powerful spiritual roles: king to reign in the garden of Eden, and priest to commune with God. Through sin, Adam lost both roles. 

But through Jesus Christ, the Last Adam, these offices have been fully restored to all who believe. As New Testament believers, we are restored to dominion and fellowship, and commissioned to function again as kings and priests unto God.

ADAM’S ORIGINAL ROLE: KING AND PRIEST

1. Kingly Dominion (Genesis 1:26–28)

Adam was given rulership over the earth, to subdue, govern, and multiply. His authority was spiritual and natural: he named the animals, tended Eden, and exercised divine stewardship.

2. Priestly Fellowship (Genesis 3:8). Adam walked in intimate fellowship with God in the cool of the day.

His role was also priestly: standing in God’s presence, guarding sacred space (Eden), and leading creation in worship.

THE FALL AND LOSS OF AUTHORITY AND FELLOWSHIP

Sin broke Adam’s authority and access to God. He was driven from God’s presence (Genesis 3:23–24). The ground resisted his rulership (Genesis 3:17–19). Satan usurped dominion (Luke 4:6), and humanity lost both kingly rule and priestly access. Thank God, Jesus Christ, the last Adam restores the kingship and priesthood

1. Christ restores kingship (Romans 5:17; Revelation 19:16). Jesus defeated Satan, reclaimed authority, and now reigns as King of Kings. Believers reign with Him, not in worldly power but in spiritual dominion over sin, fear, and darkness.

2. Christ Restores Priesthood (Hebrews 4:14–16; 10:19–22)

Jesus became our High Priest, offering His own blood to open the way back into God’s presence. Now every believer has full access to God, able to intercede, worship, and live in communion with Him.

BELIEVERS RESTORATION AS KINGS AND PRIESTS IN CHRIST

“He has made us kings and priests unto God…” Revelation 1:6 

As Restored Kings, we reign in life (Romans 5:17), exercise spiritual authority (Luke 10:19), and advance the Kingdom through faith and obedience.

As Restored Priests: We offer spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter 2:5), intercede for others (1 Timothy 2:1–4) and live holy lives and minister to God (Romans 12:1)

The Purpose of Restoration

To reflect God’s image again on the earth (2 Corinthians 3:18), fulfill the original mandate to fill, subdue, and steward creation, to proclaim His praises and serve as His representatives (1 Peter 2:9), and to prepare for eternal rule with Christ in His Kingdom (Revelation 5:10; 2 Timothy 2:12)

What Adam lost in the Garden of Eden; Christ restored through the Cross. In Him, we are no longer fallen, but restored rulers and ministers, called to reign in righteousness and minister in holiness. We must embrace our identity in Christ and walk as a king with authority and as a priest with access to the Throne Room.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF NEW TESTAMENT KINGS AND PRIESTS

In the New Testament, believers are described as both kings and priests (see Revelation 1:6, 5:10, 1 Peter 2:9). This is a spiritual designation rooted in the Old Testament but fulfilled and transformed in Christ. Here are the primary responsibilities associated with being a king and a priest in the New Testament context:

Responsibilities of New Testament Kings

These refer to the believer’s spiritual authority and dominion in Christ.

Rule with Christ:

Believers are called to reign with Christ spiritually (Romans 5:17; Revelation 20:6), exercising authority over sin, darkness, and demonic forces through faith and obedience.

Advance God's Kingdom:

As spiritual kings, believers are tasked with expanding God's rule on earth through evangelism, discipleship, justice, and good works (Matthew 28:19-20).

Walk in Authority:

Operate with the authority Jesus gave over spiritual opposition (Luke 10:19; Ephesians 2:6).

Govern Their Lives and Families:

Exercise godly leadership in their personal lives, homes, and communities (1 Timothy 3:4-5).

Responsibilities of New Testament Priests

These focus on worship, intercession, and service to God and others.

Offer Spiritual Sacrifices:

Instead of animal offerings, believers offer their bodies, praise, good deeds, and prayers (Romans 12:1; Hebrews 13:15-16; 1 Peter 2:5).

Intercede for Others:

Priests mediate between God and people through prayer (1 Timothy 2:1-2; James 5:16).

Minister in God’s Presence:

Enter God's presence boldly through Christ and worship Him (Hebrews 10:19-22).

Teach and Declare God’s Truth:

As a "royal priesthood," believers are called to proclaim God's excellencies (1 Peter 2:9).

Live Holy Lives:

Holiness is essential for those serving as priests (1 Peter 1:15-16), reflecting God's nature.

Kingship: Authority, leadership, and dominion in the spiritual realm.

Priesthood: Worship, intercession, and representing God to others.

This dual role highlights the believer's calling to both rule and serve, reflecting the nature of Jesus as both King and High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16; Revelation 19:16).

MEN IN SCRIPTURES WHO FULFILLED THEIR ROLES AS KINGS AND PRIESTS

There are men in scriptures who fulfilled their roles as kings and priests, some literally, others typologically or spiritually. These examples demonstrate how God’s design for dominion (kingly rule) and worship (priestly service) was fulfilled in individuals across the biblical narrative.

1. Adam (Genesis 1–2)

Role: Prototype of both king and priest

Kingly role: Given dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26–28)

Priestly role: Walked in fellowship with God and kept Eden, a sacred space (Genesis 2:15)

Though Adam failed, he represented God’s original intent for mankind.

2. Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18–20; Hebrews 7:1–3)

Role: King-Priest

King of Salem and Priest of God Most High

Blessed Abraham and received tithes

A type of Christ, who is a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek (Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 5:6)

3. David (1 Samuel 16 – 2 Samuel 24)

Role: King with priestly attributes

Anointed king of Israel

Wore priestly garments (2 Samuel 6:14) and offered sacrifices (not out of rebellion, but worship)

Wrote Psalms and organized Levitical worship—pointing to Christ as the true King-Priest

4. Samuel (1 Samuel 1–25)

Role: Priest, prophet, and judge (leader)

Raised in the Tabernacle under Eli

Offered sacrifices and heard from God

Led the people with authority, combining priestly and kingly functions

5. New Testament Believers (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:6, 5:10)

Role: Restored kings and priests in Christ

Called to reign in life and intercede before God

Represent Christ’s rule and presence on earth through righteousness and spiritual service

NEW TESTAMENT SAINTS WHO WALKED AS KINGS AND PRIESTS

Yes, New Testament believers are called and empowered to walk as kings and priests, and there are examples in Scripture of individuals and the early Church functioning in these roles, even if not by title.

The Church as a Whole: Kings and Priests

1. Revelation 1:6, 5:10

“[Jesus] has made us kings and priests to His God and Father...”

This is not just future tense; it is present spiritual reality. The early Church functioned with authority (kingly) and worship/service (priestly) roles, demonstrating this identity in practice.

II. New Testament Examples of Believers Walking in Kingly and Priestly Roles

1. The Apostles (e.g., Peter, Paul, John)

Priestly role: Offered spiritual sacrifices—worship, intercession, and ministry (Acts 3:1; Romans 15:16).. Preached the Gospel, leading people into reconciliation with God (2 Corinthians 5:20).

Kingly role: Exercised authority in spiritual warfare (Acts 16:18), healing (Acts 3:6–8), and church leadership (Acts 15). Paul wrote that we “reign in life” through Christ (Romans 5:17).

2. Stephen (Acts 6–7)

Priestly role: Full of faith and the Holy Spirit, served tables (ministry), and preached boldly.

Kingly role: Demonstrated divine authority with miracles (Acts 6:8), wisdom, and courage even unto death.

3. Philip the Evangelist (Acts 8)

Priestly: Preached Christ, baptized believers (spiritual service).

Kingly: Moved with Holy Spirit authority and performed miracles, signs, and strategic impact (Acts 8:6–7, 26–40).

III. Early Church Believers as a Royal Priesthood (1 Peter 2:9)

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood...”

Every believer had access to God (priesthood) and authority to walk in the power of the Spirit (kingship).

They operated in gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12), prayed boldly (Acts 4:31), and lived holy lives in hostile cultures—both kingly and priestly expressions.

There are New Testament believers Who walked as kings and priests. While they weren’t called by those titles directly, their lives clearly reflected both roles:

Kingly: Exercising dominion, spiritual authority, bold leadership, and Kingdom advancement

Priestly: Living in communion with God, offering worship, interceding, ministering to others

Today, every believer is called to walk in that same identity—just as they did in the early Church. We must know who are to inherit the blessings of sonship. 

The prodigal son collected his share as sons but his senior brother does not know his inheritance or that he has double what the junior brother has [Luke 15]