What is meant by the Threefold Office of Christ as Priest, Prophet, and King?
The word 'Christ' means 'Anointed One' (Messiah). In the Old Testament, three offices were consecrated by anointing: priests, prophets, and kings. Jesus unites and fulfills all three: as Supreme High Priest, He offered Himself as the immaculate sacrifice on Calvary to reconcile humanity with God; as Prophet, He is the living Word who proclaims the Kingdom and reveals the fullness of truth; and as King, He rules over all creation not with worldly dominion, but with humility, pastoral love, and sacrificial service.
Sources
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraphs 436-440
- Hebrews 4:14-16
Awaiting review by the chaplaincy. Written in our own words; the Church's own texts are the authority.