Q What offices does Christ execute as our redeemer?
A: Christ, as our redeemer, executes the offices of a prophet, a priest, and of a king, both in his estate of humiliation and exaltation.
Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
This is an introductory to the next several questions of the catechism, as we examine more closely the ministry of Jesus Christ, not only in his life and death, but even now as he is seated at the right hand of the Father.
There can be, however, some confusion around terms as we begin thinking of Christ as our prophet, priest, and king. The confusion is not so much around the idea of Jesus as our king (the great and sovereign ruler who reigns over the hearts of his people, over the kingdoms of this world, over the church, and over all creation), but perhaps people aren't so clear as to what is meant when we speak of Christ as a prophet and as a priest. Here, it is important to remember the Old Testament offices of prophet and priest. In the Old Testament, a prophet was the mouthpiece of God. He was one who brought the word of God to the people. He made the will of God known to the nation of Israel. A priest, however, was one who went to God on behalf of the people. He was an intercessor on behalf of God's people, pleading their case before the throne of God. As we think of Christ fulfilling these roles, keep these Old Testament offices in mind.