so that we who have found refuge in him ¹  may find strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us through two unchangeable things, since it is impossible for God to lie.

But he is unchangeable, ¹  and who can change ²  him? Whatever he ³  has desired, he does.

but he holds his priesthood permanently since he lives forever.

In the same way ¹  God wanted to demonstrate more clearly to the heirs of the promise that his purpose was unchangeable, ²  and so he intervened with an oath,

For I say, “Loyal love is permanently established; ¹  in the skies you set up your faithfulness.” ² 

All the raised offerings of the holy things that the Israelites offer to the Lord, I have given to you, and to your sons and daughters with you, as a perpetual ordinance. It is a covenant of salt ¹  forever before the Lord for you and for your descendants with you.”