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Created to Draw Near: Our Life as God's Royal Priests
Many Christians prefer to keep God at a safe distance--a distant God makes fewer demands. They imagine God has rules just for the sake of obedience, missing the point that God delights in making them holy so they can draw near to him. God's plan from the beginning has been for his people to draw near to him as a kingdom of priests.
In 40 short, meditative chapters, best-selling author Ed Welch traces iterations of the priestly job description from the garden of Eden to the heavenly city. Along the way, believers will discover their identity as royal priests and learn what it means that they were created to be made holy as they draw near to God and receive his lavish hospitality.
In 40 short, meditative chapters, best-selling author Ed Welch traces iterations of the priestly job description from the garden of Eden to the heavenly city. Along the way, believers will discover their identity as royal priests and learn what it means that they were created to be made holy as they draw near to God and receive his lavish hospitality.
224 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
94 people are currently reading
685 people want to read
About the author
Edward T. Welch
96 books461 followersEdward T. Welch, M.Div., Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and faculty member at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). He has counseled for thirty years and is the best-selling author of many books including When People Are Big and God Is Small; Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave; Blame It on the Brain?; Depression: A Stubborn Darkness; Crossroads: A Step-by-Step Guide Away from Addiction; Running Scared: Fear, Worry, and the God of Rest; and When I Am Afraid: A Step-by-Step Guide Away from Fear and Anxiety. He and his wife Sheri have two daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
March 17, 2025
This is a very easy devotional read that lays the groundwork for you if you, like me, start with no real knowledge of what the priesthood of all believers is all about.
I’ve really enjoyed learning about the temple, sacrifices, God’s presence, our access to Him, and on and on. This book basically just details the continuity between the covenants and you’re left amazed at how beautifully God tells a story.
If you want a unique devotional that isn’t too long and can keep you engaged, I suggest this.
I’ve really enjoyed learning about the temple, sacrifices, God’s presence, our access to Him, and on and on. This book basically just details the continuity between the covenants and you’re left amazed at how beautifully God tells a story.
If you want a unique devotional that isn’t too long and can keep you engaged, I suggest this.
January 25, 2023
It’s so confusing. I’ve read the whole book and the main point of the book that we are made to be in Gods presence but the 38 chapters of the book don’t seem to align with that theme. Very confusing to follow. Maybe it’s too complex of a read for me …I’m unsure. Title really drew me in but was not what I was hoping for. Onward and foward
January 17, 2020
What are some things that come to your mind when you think about a priest?
If I'm honest, my mind's eye has often conjured up an image of a catholic priest; it is a tangible picture, after all. If I drift to thoughts about the Old Testament, I reflect on sacrifices and the temple - not that I am able to visualize that very well, since the images of my mind are drawn from the illustrations of children's books I have read to my kids.
So, I feel like for most of us, we don't have a solid box to understand the role of a priest.
We have a hard time imagining what it was like in the early days of Israel, our evangelical churches don't contain the office of priest, and animal sacrifices are not a cultural norm these days. Thus the role is marked by mystery and obscurity, leaving us with little context for us to apply to our lives.
Yet, Scripture tells us we are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9-10, ESV). God has called us into a priesthood, He has given this function to us as followers of Christ.
What do we make of that?
An ancient role, awarded to us by God's grace, may seem impractical, in this day and age. Yet we are called. We are chosen, to be His priests.
To help us understand our priestly role, Ed Welch writes this book "Created to Draw Near: Our Life As God's Royal Priests".
The purpose of his book is that "we must understand ourselves as priests by how God identifies the priesthood rather than how we experience priests past and present."
He writes each chapter as a meditation on different aspects of the priesthood, drawing in truths from Old Testament laws & prophecies, and New Testament fulfillments, to help us comprehend this ancient role. A role that has implications for how we live today, as followers of Christ. At the end of each chapter, he provides response questions, allowing the reader to meditate and reflect.
He summarizes the role of priests, that they "served in God's house, knew God close up, ate meals with him, and enjoyed his presence. When they circulated among the people, they had the enviable job of pronouncing a blessing over them."
Serving. Knowing. Enjoying. Blessing.
How do those words fit for you?
It may stir emotions in your heart, as you reflect on your walk of faith. Maybe there are feelings of guilt or shame. Maybe there is a deep longing for more. There may be confusion as you wonder how this is supposed to fit in your life, when it currently looks like everything other than.
But, this is what we are created for. This is how we glorify God with our lives, and serve others, through our role as priests of God. "God's intent for humanity has been that we would live in his house and receive his divine hospitality. That is the mission of the priests - priests are near to God."
What difference would this make in your life, acknowledging your role as God's royal priest?
In his book, he looks at three perspectives that inform our role as priests.
Our Past
We are created by God, and we are "bent toward connection and closeness." Our very being desires that intimacy with others and with our Creator. This intimacy grows as we follow Him in obedience. Through the lives of the patriarchs we see God leading and guiding His people; we see Him establish a place for His presence in the tabernacle and the temple. Yet, time and again we see people turning from God's ways, and away from that intimacy. Our past reveals that we were born with a sinful nature which we battle daily, and as we fight against it, we draw nearer to Christ.
Our Saviour
In Jesus we see our Great Priest, we see Emmanuel, who is God with us. He is the one who descended down to us, who became our Passover lamb, the one in whom we are to believe. He atoned for us, as the high priests would atone for the sins of Israel. That sinful nature we labor against has been atoned for, by the power of His glorious grace! He died and rose again, and is coming back again. We live our lives as priests by the help of His grace and in the power of His promises.
Our Life
We continue to walk in obedience daily, and as "The Spirit brings you into the presence of God, and you shine as you reflect the light of Jesus." It's a beautiful picture of the priesthood, that like Moses, we can reflect the glory of God to those around us. The priests were set apart for God, and so we enter the world in our spheres of influence, our work, activities and families, as a people who are set apart. Yet, even in our uniqueness as believers, our role as priests means that we teach, encourage, and bring others into that same union with Christ.
As a member of a priesthood, we have God's Word that illuminates how we live. Even in this seemingly ancient role as a priest, we have practical applications for us today as we step out into our worlds, shining His light and carrying His aroma to those around us. "Created to Draw Near" is a great encouragement to us, as we continue to discover what that role means for us and how we live.
"You are a royal priest. That reality will change how you live."
If I'm honest, my mind's eye has often conjured up an image of a catholic priest; it is a tangible picture, after all. If I drift to thoughts about the Old Testament, I reflect on sacrifices and the temple - not that I am able to visualize that very well, since the images of my mind are drawn from the illustrations of children's books I have read to my kids.
So, I feel like for most of us, we don't have a solid box to understand the role of a priest.
We have a hard time imagining what it was like in the early days of Israel, our evangelical churches don't contain the office of priest, and animal sacrifices are not a cultural norm these days. Thus the role is marked by mystery and obscurity, leaving us with little context for us to apply to our lives.
Yet, Scripture tells us we are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9-10, ESV). God has called us into a priesthood, He has given this function to us as followers of Christ.
What do we make of that?
An ancient role, awarded to us by God's grace, may seem impractical, in this day and age. Yet we are called. We are chosen, to be His priests.
To help us understand our priestly role, Ed Welch writes this book "Created to Draw Near: Our Life As God's Royal Priests".
The purpose of his book is that "we must understand ourselves as priests by how God identifies the priesthood rather than how we experience priests past and present."
He writes each chapter as a meditation on different aspects of the priesthood, drawing in truths from Old Testament laws & prophecies, and New Testament fulfillments, to help us comprehend this ancient role. A role that has implications for how we live today, as followers of Christ. At the end of each chapter, he provides response questions, allowing the reader to meditate and reflect.
He summarizes the role of priests, that they "served in God's house, knew God close up, ate meals with him, and enjoyed his presence. When they circulated among the people, they had the enviable job of pronouncing a blessing over them."
Serving. Knowing. Enjoying. Blessing.
How do those words fit for you?
It may stir emotions in your heart, as you reflect on your walk of faith. Maybe there are feelings of guilt or shame. Maybe there is a deep longing for more. There may be confusion as you wonder how this is supposed to fit in your life, when it currently looks like everything other than.
But, this is what we are created for. This is how we glorify God with our lives, and serve others, through our role as priests of God. "God's intent for humanity has been that we would live in his house and receive his divine hospitality. That is the mission of the priests - priests are near to God."
What difference would this make in your life, acknowledging your role as God's royal priest?
In his book, he looks at three perspectives that inform our role as priests.
Our Past
We are created by God, and we are "bent toward connection and closeness." Our very being desires that intimacy with others and with our Creator. This intimacy grows as we follow Him in obedience. Through the lives of the patriarchs we see God leading and guiding His people; we see Him establish a place for His presence in the tabernacle and the temple. Yet, time and again we see people turning from God's ways, and away from that intimacy. Our past reveals that we were born with a sinful nature which we battle daily, and as we fight against it, we draw nearer to Christ.
Our Saviour
In Jesus we see our Great Priest, we see Emmanuel, who is God with us. He is the one who descended down to us, who became our Passover lamb, the one in whom we are to believe. He atoned for us, as the high priests would atone for the sins of Israel. That sinful nature we labor against has been atoned for, by the power of His glorious grace! He died and rose again, and is coming back again. We live our lives as priests by the help of His grace and in the power of His promises.
Our Life
We continue to walk in obedience daily, and as "The Spirit brings you into the presence of God, and you shine as you reflect the light of Jesus." It's a beautiful picture of the priesthood, that like Moses, we can reflect the glory of God to those around us. The priests were set apart for God, and so we enter the world in our spheres of influence, our work, activities and families, as a people who are set apart. Yet, even in our uniqueness as believers, our role as priests means that we teach, encourage, and bring others into that same union with Christ.
As a member of a priesthood, we have God's Word that illuminates how we live. Even in this seemingly ancient role as a priest, we have practical applications for us today as we step out into our worlds, shining His light and carrying His aroma to those around us. "Created to Draw Near" is a great encouragement to us, as we continue to discover what that role means for us and how we live.
"You are a royal priest. That reality will change how you live."
November 5, 2025
Love Ed Welch. Love biblical theologies.
December 29, 2022
Tons of insight into the theme of Christians living out the role of priest. It’s an accessible theology of royal priesthood, the nearness of God expressed in the tabernacle, temple, and eventually in Christ the true Temple of God. Reading this made me think more and more deeply about holiness and how God made us to draw near to him. It really was a unique read that had me pause a lot to think about things in a fresh way.
August 8, 2023
I loved the biblical theology overview. Welch starts from Genesis 1 and moves through the OT to teach what the priesthood was for, then shows how that is fulfilled in Christ, and then what it means that all Christians are priests through our Great High Priest. Very edifying and Christ-exalting.
To my surprise, the book was very individualistic. There was really nothing explaining how the beautiful reality of the priesthood of all believers is a corporate reality, or how that should shape the life of believers in local churches.
3.5 stars.
To my surprise, the book was very individualistic. There was really nothing explaining how the beautiful reality of the priesthood of all believers is a corporate reality, or how that should shape the life of believers in local churches.
3.5 stars.
October 28, 2022
Loved this book. I read it all at once but it would be a great daily devotion type read. Up there with Gentle and Lowly for my favorites in that category this year.
Addition: I read this again in 2022 and liked it again. This time I read it more slowly. Still a good daily devotion type of book.
Addition: I read this again in 2022 and liked it again. This time I read it more slowly. Still a good daily devotion type of book.
December 20, 2019
The purpose of humanity is to be brought near to God as a holy people. AS this was displayed in the priesthood, the realities of holiness were brought before people night and day. God's mission for us is to draw us to close to himself and give life.
How important it is to know for the weary that we can draw close to God. This text is a study on the bible how God brought his people near to him and the great lengths it takes on his part to do so. We must remember we are dealing with a holy God, good vs evil as we are being accused day and night by the evil one. This text in sharing God's heart in drawing us near also gives this heart a better understanding of who God is. A humble position to be.
The text also is centered on the trinity and how the trinity works for the mission for us to draw near to God. It is a holy work. A work meant for sanctification.
The text is in 3 parts. Our past in dealing with Garden of Eden and how God set apart a people for his glory. A people who he drew near to him to worship him. The 2nd part focuses on Jesus as our tabernacle. This is a great word study as we see Jesus much more. Part 3 Almost Truly Human-we are truly human as we draw near and living as God's Royal Priest.
A life changing book as it will change how you look at God, the bible and prayer. Highly recommend.
A Special Thank you to Crossway Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
How important it is to know for the weary that we can draw close to God. This text is a study on the bible how God brought his people near to him and the great lengths it takes on his part to do so. We must remember we are dealing with a holy God, good vs evil as we are being accused day and night by the evil one. This text in sharing God's heart in drawing us near also gives this heart a better understanding of who God is. A humble position to be.
The text also is centered on the trinity and how the trinity works for the mission for us to draw near to God. It is a holy work. A work meant for sanctification.
The text is in 3 parts. Our past in dealing with Garden of Eden and how God set apart a people for his glory. A people who he drew near to him to worship him. The 2nd part focuses on Jesus as our tabernacle. This is a great word study as we see Jesus much more. Part 3 Almost Truly Human-we are truly human as we draw near and living as God's Royal Priest.
A life changing book as it will change how you look at God, the bible and prayer. Highly recommend.
A Special Thank you to Crossway Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
August 5, 2020
This is a devotional book, written with 38 short chapters, that gives a deep understanding of the priesthood of all believers.
It is both heartwarming, and life challenging. A helpful book to understand more of the bigger picture of the Bible, who we are in Christ, and how we should live.
It is both heartwarming, and life challenging. A helpful book to understand more of the bigger picture of the Bible, who we are in Christ, and how we should live.
June 14, 2022
Enjoyed the audio version of this book. It is filled with many helpful and challenging reminders. The author traces the history of the priesthood and then draws applications to NT believers and the doctrine of the priesthood of the believers.
January 6, 2025
This book was super accessible and well done. I love how he built up on the theme of union with Christ and our drawing near to Him with each section. I liked the questions at the end of each chapter, they helped with further reflection over the material.
February 20, 2025
This book has lots of true things in it but really doesn't develop what it's saying very well. I had to make myself keep reading it and found myself spacing out as I was doing so. I think I partially just really didn't like this, especially short chapters as I didn't develop ideas long enough
January 31, 2021
A really interesting perspective on a much of what the Bible says.
Lots to ponder over in here.
Lots to ponder over in here.
March 24, 2021
Being a part of a royal priesthood is beautiful, and I didn't realize just how beautiful it is...until now. As priests, we are to draw near as we become more and more like our High Priest. Read this and unlock this beautiful truth and all that it entails for yourself.
May 14, 2021
Ed Welch's work has left a deep impact on me. But for some reason this book just didn't click at all and became something I had to slog through for the sake of completion.
August 16, 2022
An amazing book that weaves together the Old Testament and the New Testament by means of God’s redemptive plan for us through Jesus and our identity as His royal priesthood.
March 9, 2023
This book revealed to me a lot of the connections between the priesthood in the Old Testament and how we as believers are now considered the royal priesthood after Jesus’s resurrection. I learned a lot reading this! But I listened to the audiobook version and it was quite boring so I’d recommend reading it like normal.
January 10, 2024
4.5 ⭐️s. “…your purpose is to be near God, to live with him in his house and to experience his divine hospitality.”
April 4, 2020
Crossway provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through the Blog Review Program. I’m under no obligation to post a positive review.
As I write this review our world is gripped by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the title of this book seems almost dangerous. If our society has a motto right now, it’d be something like “Instructed to Stay Away.”
But there’s a reason we’re all struggling so much in self-isolation. We were, indeed, created to draw near. As Welch writes in the opening sentences of his introduction: “Our independent streak runs deep. Our desire for closeness runs deeper.”
The subtitle gives us the dominant image of this book: Our Life as God’s Royal Priests. As Spirit-filled followers of Jesus we have been made into God’s “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). Welch explores the idea of priesthood through the whole Bible, helping us to understand the immense privilege and meaning of this title we bear by grace. To summarise, priests are those who can draw near to God.
Welch structured his book according to the storyline of the Bible, showing how God’s intention all throughout redemptive history was to bring us near to him. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve enjoyed a close relationship with God who walked among them. But when they sinned, humanity became unclean and separated from God. The rest of the Bible tells the story of our Father drawing us ever closer, back to himself. And we look forward to the eternity ahead where we will walk right beside God again.
I have a richer understanding of the Old Testament after reading Created to Draw Near. I’m sure when I next read the Pentateuch in particular, I’ll better be able to trace the threads that lead me to Jesus. This is no dry theology book—it made me want to draw nearer to my Saviour. It restored my sense of joy and privilege that I’m able to come near to my holy God, who is not distant or stingy with his love.
This book is about us as God’s priests, but it’s really about Jesus. Welch rightly presents Jesus as the main course, the centrepiece: “When Jesus came to us in human flesh, the priestly story converged on him.” We can only come near to God because we have been washed by Jesus’ blood, and are now united with him. In each chapter Welch reveals more of our great high priest for us to adore, and lifts our hearts up in exultation.
Welch also helped me to understand sin better, and desire holiness. Sin is not merely a strike on our record, something that leaves us objectively guilty. Rather, it violates the very core our being. It separates us from the God who we were made to be close to. When I think about sin as breaking this relationship, I am repulsed by it. Obedience looks beautiful and desirable in comparison.
You can tell that Ed Welch is a biblical counsellor, because his theology is deeply practical. His words are directed at our hearts, and his aim is true. It’s clear that he has been shaped by these truths himself. He provides examples throughout the book of what this theology looks like in practice, as well as response questions at the end of every chapter to help us apply it to our own lives.
I recommend this book to anyone who struggles to rejoice in their relationship with God. Being a priest is not a burdensome duty. Welch helps us to see the joy we are invited into:
“The heart of the priestly job description is fellowship with the Lord, enjoying his hospitality and protection, living in his house. May we never think that dour obedience is the essence of life in Christ. Lavish meals, satisfaction, peace, and pleasure are the lot of God’s priests. It could be no other way when we are invited to live at the junction of heaven and earth.”
The day after finishing Created to Draw Near, I found myself coming before God with greater joy. Part of the Bible passage I was reading stood out to me and I was able to draw on the truths of this book as I read it: “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:9).
We have been brought near to God, and one day we will see him face to face. In this era of social distancing, we have the assurance that our Saviour will never cast us away from him or fear to come near to our hearts. Let’s rejoice in this privilege together.
As I write this review our world is gripped by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the title of this book seems almost dangerous. If our society has a motto right now, it’d be something like “Instructed to Stay Away.”
But there’s a reason we’re all struggling so much in self-isolation. We were, indeed, created to draw near. As Welch writes in the opening sentences of his introduction: “Our independent streak runs deep. Our desire for closeness runs deeper.”
The subtitle gives us the dominant image of this book: Our Life as God’s Royal Priests. As Spirit-filled followers of Jesus we have been made into God’s “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). Welch explores the idea of priesthood through the whole Bible, helping us to understand the immense privilege and meaning of this title we bear by grace. To summarise, priests are those who can draw near to God.
Welch structured his book according to the storyline of the Bible, showing how God’s intention all throughout redemptive history was to bring us near to him. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve enjoyed a close relationship with God who walked among them. But when they sinned, humanity became unclean and separated from God. The rest of the Bible tells the story of our Father drawing us ever closer, back to himself. And we look forward to the eternity ahead where we will walk right beside God again.
I have a richer understanding of the Old Testament after reading Created to Draw Near. I’m sure when I next read the Pentateuch in particular, I’ll better be able to trace the threads that lead me to Jesus. This is no dry theology book—it made me want to draw nearer to my Saviour. It restored my sense of joy and privilege that I’m able to come near to my holy God, who is not distant or stingy with his love.
This book is about us as God’s priests, but it’s really about Jesus. Welch rightly presents Jesus as the main course, the centrepiece: “When Jesus came to us in human flesh, the priestly story converged on him.” We can only come near to God because we have been washed by Jesus’ blood, and are now united with him. In each chapter Welch reveals more of our great high priest for us to adore, and lifts our hearts up in exultation.
Welch also helped me to understand sin better, and desire holiness. Sin is not merely a strike on our record, something that leaves us objectively guilty. Rather, it violates the very core our being. It separates us from the God who we were made to be close to. When I think about sin as breaking this relationship, I am repulsed by it. Obedience looks beautiful and desirable in comparison.
You can tell that Ed Welch is a biblical counsellor, because his theology is deeply practical. His words are directed at our hearts, and his aim is true. It’s clear that he has been shaped by these truths himself. He provides examples throughout the book of what this theology looks like in practice, as well as response questions at the end of every chapter to help us apply it to our own lives.
I recommend this book to anyone who struggles to rejoice in their relationship with God. Being a priest is not a burdensome duty. Welch helps us to see the joy we are invited into:
“The heart of the priestly job description is fellowship with the Lord, enjoying his hospitality and protection, living in his house. May we never think that dour obedience is the essence of life in Christ. Lavish meals, satisfaction, peace, and pleasure are the lot of God’s priests. It could be no other way when we are invited to live at the junction of heaven and earth.”
The day after finishing Created to Draw Near, I found myself coming before God with greater joy. Part of the Bible passage I was reading stood out to me and I was able to draw on the truths of this book as I read it: “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:9).
We have been brought near to God, and one day we will see him face to face. In this era of social distancing, we have the assurance that our Saviour will never cast us away from him or fear to come near to our hearts. Let’s rejoice in this privilege together.
December 17, 2019
Well, I read it. Not sure I want to say more at this point. Maybe later. Good topic; weird execution; at-times wildly unsupported claims (especially related to theophanies in the OT). More theological rigor would have been welcomed.
January 25, 2020
This is my review on the book Created to Draw Near: Our Life as God's Royal Priests (2019) by Edward T. Welch.
For many of us, our understanding of priesthood is often shaped by what we see on the internet of a Roman Catholic pope dressed in a white robe. Some may have a deeper understanding of the office of a priest and what they do at the temple, usually consist of some form of animal sacrifices and worship. But a man dressed in white robe or animal sacrifices are not common sight in evangelical churches today.
In this book, Dr. Ed Welch has carefully thread through God's design of humanity in Eden, in the tabernacle, in the temple, and also in the new earth, how it has always been God's plan for man to live in the presence of God. And how God has always make it possible for man to draw near to God even though we have sinned against a holy God.
The apostle Peter declared that we are God's royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9) and that is not just Old Testament stuff, but is also present reality. Dr. Ed Welch helped us to see how each specific details of the temple and the priest reveals something about God, particularly His desire for us to draw near to Him. On this side of history, all the detailed elaboration of the temple, the sacrifices, and the office of the priest provided us a clearer picture of how it all culminated in one person, Jesus Christ who is able to bring us into the presence of God, to draw near to Him.
Dr. Ed Welch has the ability to explain difficult theology in very simple words to help us to see the marvel of God's plan to restore humanity back to Himself through Jesus Christ.
A greater understanding of God's design for every believer to be his royal priest must then change how we live. This book does not just contain good theology, it also ends every chapter with a personal response section for you to reflect and response to God and apply Scripture to you life. I highly recommend reading this book to gain a deeper appreciation of the Old Testament.
Crossway has provided a complimentary copy of this book through the Blog Review Program.
For many of us, our understanding of priesthood is often shaped by what we see on the internet of a Roman Catholic pope dressed in a white robe. Some may have a deeper understanding of the office of a priest and what they do at the temple, usually consist of some form of animal sacrifices and worship. But a man dressed in white robe or animal sacrifices are not common sight in evangelical churches today.
In this book, Dr. Ed Welch has carefully thread through God's design of humanity in Eden, in the tabernacle, in the temple, and also in the new earth, how it has always been God's plan for man to live in the presence of God. And how God has always make it possible for man to draw near to God even though we have sinned against a holy God.
The apostle Peter declared that we are God's royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9) and that is not just Old Testament stuff, but is also present reality. Dr. Ed Welch helped us to see how each specific details of the temple and the priest reveals something about God, particularly His desire for us to draw near to Him. On this side of history, all the detailed elaboration of the temple, the sacrifices, and the office of the priest provided us a clearer picture of how it all culminated in one person, Jesus Christ who is able to bring us into the presence of God, to draw near to Him.
Dr. Ed Welch has the ability to explain difficult theology in very simple words to help us to see the marvel of God's plan to restore humanity back to Himself through Jesus Christ.
A greater understanding of God's design for every believer to be his royal priest must then change how we live. This book does not just contain good theology, it also ends every chapter with a personal response section for you to reflect and response to God and apply Scripture to you life. I highly recommend reading this book to gain a deeper appreciation of the Old Testament.
Crossway has provided a complimentary copy of this book through the Blog Review Program.
February 3, 2020
For several years, Edward T. Welch has been on the front lines of the biblical counseling movement. His recent offering, Created to Draw Near: Our Life as God’s Royal Priests is an insightful look at the scope of redemptive history and the shows how believers are called upon to draw near to God as his royal priests.
Accordingly, the book is arranged in three parts: 1) Our Past, 2) Jesus Our Tabernacle, and 3) Almost Truly Human. Each section contains a series of short meditations, all of which are designed to show readers that God’s intention all along is for his creatures to draw near into his presence.
This book may take some getting used to for readers. There is a ebb and flow and a strategy that enables readers to see the big picture of God’s grand story. In order to see the forest, though, readers must become familiar with the trees.
“God’s laws, at their best, are instructions about how to be in relationship with him. Like any relationship, the more we follow the rules of the relationship - sexual fidelity, truthfulness, serving in love - the more we know intimacy and pleasure.”
“As saints, together we enjoy God’s fellowship, we want to know him even better and love him more, and wee want those who are further away to come near.”
A few noteworthy treasures are noted below. These treasures appear throughout the book and help bolster the original thesis that Dr. Welch advances, namely, that intends his creatures to draw near as God’s royal priests. Welch skillfully achieves his goal in this book, as the book ends with a majestic crescendo, expressed best in Revelation 21:3 - “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.”
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Accordingly, the book is arranged in three parts: 1) Our Past, 2) Jesus Our Tabernacle, and 3) Almost Truly Human. Each section contains a series of short meditations, all of which are designed to show readers that God’s intention all along is for his creatures to draw near into his presence.
This book may take some getting used to for readers. There is a ebb and flow and a strategy that enables readers to see the big picture of God’s grand story. In order to see the forest, though, readers must become familiar with the trees.
”In the weakness of a baby he (Jesus) gave up power. He came to us, and the distance between heaven and earth has been forever recalibrated.”
“God’s laws, at their best, are instructions about how to be in relationship with him. Like any relationship, the more we follow the rules of the relationship - sexual fidelity, truthfulness, serving in love - the more we know intimacy and pleasure.”
“As saints, together we enjoy God’s fellowship, we want to know him even better and love him more, and wee want those who are further away to come near.”
A few noteworthy treasures are noted below. These treasures appear throughout the book and help bolster the original thesis that Dr. Welch advances, namely, that intends his creatures to draw near as God’s royal priests. Welch skillfully achieves his goal in this book, as the book ends with a majestic crescendo, expressed best in Revelation 21:3 - “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.”
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
March 26, 2020
Ed Welch takes the reader on an eye-opening journey through Scripture which ends in displaying the glory of Jesus as our faithful high priest. Welch demonstrates a remarkable ability to translate difficult biblical theology into applicable practical theology. He begins with Eden, continues with the original tabernacle/temple in the Old Testament, then progresses to Jesus and the church in the New Testament. Welch ties together multiple mini-themes into the overarching story of the Bible. This may be one of the first of many crossover books between the disciplines of biblical theology and biblical counseling.
Welch’s strength is in succinctly showing the counseling implications of others who have written previously on this subject. He inserts personal examples and case studies for illustration, then also includes helpful response questions at the end of each brief chapter. Although not all biblical scholars may agree with Welch’s redemptive-historical hermeneutic, his insights demonstrate a careful interaction with each text. The book also includes both a topical index and a Scripture index.
I can only suggest some minor improvements. The simple diagrams clearly show the continuity of the biblical story, but could have been designed more stylistically. I would also suggest a greater emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s participation in the Old Testament worship of Israel. Welch does not emphasize the continuity of the Spirit’s dwelling, but instead focuses on his new covenant work.
I was greatly refreshed by a devotional reading of this book and hope to see similar offerings from other biblical counselors.
* Crossway has provided a complimentary copy of this book through the Blog Review Program.
Welch’s strength is in succinctly showing the counseling implications of others who have written previously on this subject. He inserts personal examples and case studies for illustration, then also includes helpful response questions at the end of each brief chapter. Although not all biblical scholars may agree with Welch’s redemptive-historical hermeneutic, his insights demonstrate a careful interaction with each text. The book also includes both a topical index and a Scripture index.
I can only suggest some minor improvements. The simple diagrams clearly show the continuity of the biblical story, but could have been designed more stylistically. I would also suggest a greater emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s participation in the Old Testament worship of Israel. Welch does not emphasize the continuity of the Spirit’s dwelling, but instead focuses on his new covenant work.
I was greatly refreshed by a devotional reading of this book and hope to see similar offerings from other biblical counselors.
* Crossway has provided a complimentary copy of this book through the Blog Review Program.
January 1, 2020
"Created to Draw Near" talked about what it means to be a priest of God, how God wants us to draw near to Him, and what He's done to allow us to draw near to Him. The author started by looking at the Garden of Eden, then talked about Moses and Mount Sinai, looked at the tabernacle and the symbolism found in the tabernacle and the priestly clothing. He looked at the sacrifices and the feasts and how Jesus is a later fulfillment of these. He explained how Jesus is our tabernacle, our high priest, the final sacrifice that allows us to draw near to God, how we are priests and saints, and other Old Testament/New Testament imagery.
The author is very fond of finding symbolism in things, some of it widely accepted and some of it I've never heard before. At the end of each short chapter, there were two personal application questions. I appreciated that he used verses from and studied the Bible to make his points. I'm not sure that I agree with his repeated theme that mankind (including Adam and Eve before the Fall) were always meant to wear priestly clothing. He seems to believe that the fact that Adam and Eve were naked and didn't know it was a bad thing, and their nakedness always needed to be covered. Overall, though, I felt like he did a good job showing how Jesus fulfills the promises and symbolism found in the Old Testament.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The author is very fond of finding symbolism in things, some of it widely accepted and some of it I've never heard before. At the end of each short chapter, there were two personal application questions. I appreciated that he used verses from and studied the Bible to make his points. I'm not sure that I agree with his repeated theme that mankind (including Adam and Eve before the Fall) were always meant to wear priestly clothing. He seems to believe that the fact that Adam and Eve were naked and didn't know it was a bad thing, and their nakedness always needed to be covered. Overall, though, I felt like he did a good job showing how Jesus fulfills the promises and symbolism found in the Old Testament.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
January 24, 2020
This book contains 40 meditations that focus on some part of our relationship with Christ and the royal priesthood. Welch challenges our preconceived notions. I appreciated how he defined the priestly role. “The heart of the priestly job description is fellowship with the Lord, enjoying his hospitality and protection, living in his house. May we never think that dour obedience is the essence of life in Christ. Lavish meals, satisfaction, peace, and pleasure are the lot of God’s priests” (location 673).
Another favorite part for me was when he said that instead of thinking of our growth in Christ as “progressive sanctification,” we should think of it as “progressive nearness” (location 908). The Lord declares us holy, and that status change helps us change. As we grow in holiness and obedience, we experience a greater closeness.
Thank you to Crossway for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Another favorite part for me was when he said that instead of thinking of our growth in Christ as “progressive sanctification,” we should think of it as “progressive nearness” (location 908). The Lord declares us holy, and that status change helps us change. As we grow in holiness and obedience, we experience a greater closeness.
Thank you to Crossway for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 8, 2020
Created to Draw Near
Our Life as God's Royal Priests
by Edward T. Welch
Crossway
Christian , Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 07 Jan 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Created to Draw Near through Crossway and Netgalley:
Character Matters is a book that encourages the readers to reflect on one self, it is not a book that encourages self-centeredness. We are reminded too not to let that self reflection turn into self centerdness.
The author encourages us to focus on the Jesus.
The importance of kindness is also addressed with the reminder that kindness does not only involve remembering it involves doing.
We are reminded too that though being thick skinned is perfectly acceptable, it is unacceptable to lack a tender heart.
If you are looking for a book that encourages you to draw closer to God, instead of keeping him at a distance, as many Christians do.
I give Created to Draw Near five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Our Life as God's Royal Priests
by Edward T. Welch
Crossway
Christian , Religion & Spirituality
Pub Date 07 Jan 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Created to Draw Near through Crossway and Netgalley:
Character Matters is a book that encourages the readers to reflect on one self, it is not a book that encourages self-centeredness. We are reminded too not to let that self reflection turn into self centerdness.
The author encourages us to focus on the Jesus.
The importance of kindness is also addressed with the reminder that kindness does not only involve remembering it involves doing.
We are reminded too that though being thick skinned is perfectly acceptable, it is unacceptable to lack a tender heart.
If you are looking for a book that encourages you to draw closer to God, instead of keeping him at a distance, as many Christians do.
I give Created to Draw Near five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
January 8, 2021
In Created to Draw Near, Ed Welch uses the God-given role of the priest to help the reader better understand what it means to draw near to God. What many think of as an Old Testament ministry is used to show the intimate relationship we have with God through Jesus Christ.
There are many things to be commended in the book. One of the biggest things is Welch's questions and statements that challenge the reader to consider these Biblical truths would look in a person's life. Also, the points shared in the epilogue about the priesthood of all believers were insightful, especially considering this phase is often thrown around without much understanding.
One of the challenges in reading the book was staying focused while reading about the symbols, characters, and deep spiritual truth. It may be a challenge for some readers.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through Crossway's Blog Review Program.
There are many things to be commended in the book. One of the biggest things is Welch's questions and statements that challenge the reader to consider these Biblical truths would look in a person's life. Also, the points shared in the epilogue about the priesthood of all believers were insightful, especially considering this phase is often thrown around without much understanding.
One of the challenges in reading the book was staying focused while reading about the symbols, characters, and deep spiritual truth. It may be a challenge for some readers.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through Crossway's Blog Review Program.
August 5, 2020
I wanted to really like this. I find the subject quite interesting.
But for some reason I could not connect with the writing. I found it a little rambly, and I couldn't pick up the threads that were supposed to draw it all together. Still, there were occasional useful and engaging insights, so for the first half of the book I expected to give it three stars.
But. I read an ebook version, and when I stopped reading yesterday, I moved ahead to check out some page numbers, and apparently I forgot to move back, because today I picked it up and just kept going, having no clue I'd missed ten whole chapters until I reached the epilogue sooner than expected.
I went back and skimmed through the missed chapters just to finish, because clearly I'm not properly invested. I don't know. Maybe it's just not for me.
But for some reason I could not connect with the writing. I found it a little rambly, and I couldn't pick up the threads that were supposed to draw it all together. Still, there were occasional useful and engaging insights, so for the first half of the book I expected to give it three stars.
But. I read an ebook version, and when I stopped reading yesterday, I moved ahead to check out some page numbers, and apparently I forgot to move back, because today I picked it up and just kept going, having no clue I'd missed ten whole chapters until I reached the epilogue sooner than expected.
I went back and skimmed through the missed chapters just to finish, because clearly I'm not properly invested. I don't know. Maybe it's just not for me.
September 7, 2020
I have greatly benefited from the writings of the CCEF authors, and Edward Welch's writings in particularly have been some of the most helpful (aside from the late David Powlison!). But somehow this book seemed like it was less than the sum of its parts. There were definitely some good Biblical truths explained, but it did not live up to the hype that I had heard about it. I would still recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about our identity as a royal priesthood and the blessings and benefits that the Lord gives us in that role. Despite my lack of enthusiasm for this book, I still think it is a helpful and beneficial work, and as the commercials sometimes say, "your results may vary".
December 15, 2021
5/10
“The purpose of humanity is to be brought near to God as a holy people.”
This story of the Bible through the perspective of God continually wanting to draw near. Angels can ascend and descend the ladder, we cannot ascend it to heaven, we had to wait for God to descend to us. This was a short, simple book, that still gave a slightly different perspective on humanity's relationship with God.
“Priests are the very offspring of God and share in his likeness. Our lineage is from heaven, which makes us hybrids of heaven and earth, though the scales tip in the direction of heaven. We are more connected to heaven than is the rest of creation. We are children priests or, since our Father is the king, we are royal priests who can enjoy his companionship as he actually enjoys ours.”
“The purpose of humanity is to be brought near to God as a holy people.”
This story of the Bible through the perspective of God continually wanting to draw near. Angels can ascend and descend the ladder, we cannot ascend it to heaven, we had to wait for God to descend to us. This was a short, simple book, that still gave a slightly different perspective on humanity's relationship with God.
“Priests are the very offspring of God and share in his likeness. Our lineage is from heaven, which makes us hybrids of heaven and earth, though the scales tip in the direction of heaven. We are more connected to heaven than is the rest of creation. We are children priests or, since our Father is the king, we are royal priests who can enjoy his companionship as he actually enjoys ours.”
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