Reflection on 11-23

It is interesting that some would see the refocusing of the Reformers' thought on the "priesthood of all believers" as the start of individualistic devotion and practice apart from the community. Perhaps the Reformers' belief stressing individual ability to commune with God is actually the reason, since "priesthood" as a concept must involve the presence of others - the one acting as priest atones for the sins and communicates with God on behalf of others. Without others, there could be no priesthood.