The role of a priest is deeply significant in the purpose God is working out for us, as we are called to be both kings and priests in the World Tomorrow. A priest serves as a bridge-builder, aiding people in accessing God by acting as a mediator who reconciles between God and men. This primary function is to facilitate union with God, bringing the two together. Beyond mediation, a priest also teaches a way of life to improve upon the reconciliation that has been established, counseling and guiding to strengthen the relationship with God. This dual role of reconciling and teaching is a pattern set for us to follow, preparing us for our future responsibilities. The concept of priesthood is tied to sacrifice, a key function of a priest, symbolizing the offering of something precious to God. During the Millennium, represented by the Feast of Tabernacles, the volume of sacrifices indicates the immense priestly work awaiting us, far exceeding any other time in God's plan. Though not involving physical animals, the spiritual sacrifices we offer will be substantial, reflecting our dedication and service. Even now, we carry priestly responsibilities, offering spiritual sacrifices and practicing the mediation and teaching that prepare us for our future role. As bridge-builders, we are to help others access God, mirroring the pattern of service and sacrifice that defines a priest's function.

The role of a priest is fundamentally mediatorial, standing as a bridge between God and humanity. A priest's calling is to draw near to God, performing essential functions in His presence, a privilege and responsibility granted through His divine work. The term "priest" derives from a root meaning "first," indicating a leadership position, as in being the firstborn or firstfruit. Our High Priest, Jesus Christ, is the first to eternally reside in God's presence, leading us to follow Him symbolically close to God. As priests, we are to go before God on behalf of others, carrying their thanksgiving, entreaties, and sacrifices, while also bringing back God's gifts such as reconciliation and understanding of His will. This role as bridge-builders extends to the future, where our work, alongside Christ's, will guide the rest of humanity into God's presence, granting them the same privilege we hold. Thus, the church, as a priesthood, stands between God and the world, facilitating this vital connection with an awesome responsibility to mediate and lead.

The function of the priest was to build a bridge between man and God. This means that Jesus not only shows us the way to God, but also, when we get there, introduces us to His presence. As members of His church, we are part of His holy priesthood, and Jesus is the spiritual High Priest over God's house. We are compelled to live a life of sacrifice to God, by our conduct, which is part of our spiritual worship; by our faith, by our gifts, by our offering acceptable spiritual sacrifices. Jesus is the epitome of perfection. He is the perfect High Priest, being the divine Son of God, who alone has sinless perfection, but still being a brother to humanity through His previous physical life. In contrast to the sinner of ancient Israel with the offerings of the flawed priests and people, Jesus was the sinless offerer of His sinless self, once and for all, on behalf of His people. He is the quintessential excellence of the High Priest, because He made Himself the perfect sacrifice. Not only in His offering, but also in His place of service. He perfected the priesthood, because He entered into the most holy place of heaven to make atonement. Our High Priest is faithful and pure, so we must emulate Him as His royal priesthood.

The English term priest derives from a Greek root that passed through Latin before entering religious terminology. The Latin word for priest is pontiff. Pont means bridge, so pontiff essentially means a bridge-maker. A priest stands before God as His servant while leading worshippers. He instructs and mediates between them, helping to build spiritual bridges between God and the worshipper. In Hebrew the word for priest is cohen. Its root kun means to stand, and a priest stands between God and man. His position between God and the worshippers requires him to perform instructive, sacrificial, ritualistic, and mediatorial duties. A Levite helps people become attached to God. The covenant people were to become a nation of priests.