Priests

[Timmy_Z]

When is the earliest reference to a NT priesthood?

Thanks,
Tim

 

[Verbum]

Hi Timmy,

The letter to the Hebrews is all about Christ’s priesthood. And throughout the letters of St. Paul, you find references to “elders” or presbyters", from which is derived the word “priest”.

Verbum

 

[NotWorthy]

I’d say in the OT.

Just as the earliest reference to Christ in the NT is in Genesis 3:15, the earliest reference to an NT priesthood is in Exodus perhaps.

But to answer what I think you are asking, the “presbyters” in Acts are a good starting point. We get the word “priest” from the greek “presbyters”.

 

[Timmy_Z]

Sorry, I meant with the church fathers. Any references in early church history?

Thanks for the replies,
Tim