What is the meaning of Hebrews 2:17? For this reason - Hebrews 2:17 opens by anchoring everything in what has just been said: because Jesus “shared in flesh and blood” (Hebrews 2:14) and destroyed the devil’s power over death, there is a compelling “reason.” - Philippians 2:7–8 shows the same motive: Christ “emptied Himself” and was “obedient to death.” - John 1:14 declares, “The Word became flesh.” All of these passages echo the thought that the incarnation wasn’t optional; it was necessary for God’s saving plan. He had to be made like His brothers in every way - The phrase stresses total identification with humanity—body, mind, emotions, will. • Romans 8:3 says God sent His Son “in the likeness of sinful man.” • Galatians 4:4–5 reminds us He was “born of a woman, born under the Law.” - This full likeness means He experienced hunger (Matthew 4:2), weariness (John 4:6), sorrow (John 11:35), and temptation “yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). - By sharing every aspect of our condition, He qualifies as our representative before God. so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God - “Merciful” points to His compassionate heart toward struggling sinners (Hebrews 4:16). - “Faithful” highlights steadfast reliability; He never fails in His priestly duty (Hebrews 3:2). - As High Priest, Jesus bridges the gap between God and humanity, surpassing the Old Testament priesthood (Hebrews 7:23-28). - His service is God-ward: He ministers in the true sanctuary (Hebrews 8:1-2), always living to intercede for us (Hebrews 7:25). in order to make atonement for the sins of the people - The goal of His priestly work is clear—atonement. Unlike animal sacrifices that covered sin temporarily (Leviticus 16:15-17), His sacrifice removes it completely (Hebrews 10:4, 12). - Romans 3:25 says God presented Christ “as an atoning sacrifice.” - 1 John 2:2 affirms He is “the atoning sacrifice… for the whole world.” - By offering Himself, Jesus satisfies God’s justice and extends mercy to all who believe (Isaiah 53:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21). summary Hebrews 2:17 threads together Christ’s incarnation, perfect identification with humanity, compassionate priesthood, and decisive atoning work. Because He truly became one of us, He can faithfully represent us before the Father, offering the once-for-all sacrifice that secures our forgiveness and invites us into confident fellowship with God. |
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