What is the significance of a will being "in force only when someone has died"? Understanding the Passage: Hebrews 9:16-17 • “In the case of a will, it is necessary to establish the death of the one who made it, because a will is in force only when somebody has died; it never takes effect while the one who made it is living.” (Hebrews 9:16-17) • The writer uses a familiar legal reality—how an earthly will works—to illuminate the way God’s covenant works. • A will (Greek: diathēkē) can mean both “testament” and “covenant,” so the example fits perfectly: both require death to be activated. Why a Will Requires Death • A will declares intentions, but those intentions remain promises until the testator dies. • Death finalizes ownership transfer; nothing more can be added, altered, or revoked (Galatians 3:15). • Until death, heirs may anticipate the inheritance, but they cannot possess it. Old Covenant Illustration: Animal Blood Confirmed the Promise • Exodus 24:8—“Moses took the blood and sprinkled it on the people and said, ‘This is the blood of the covenant…’ ” • The shedding of animal blood showed that a life had been given; the covenant stood as legally binding. • Yet animal blood was only provisional, pointing to something greater (Hebrews 9:22-23). New Covenant Ratified: Christ’s Death • Jesus applied the same language at the Last Supper: “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.” (Luke 22:20) • The moment He died—“It is finished” (John 19:30)—the new covenant became active, and every promise moved from anticipation to possession for His people. • Romans 3:25 explains why: God presented Jesus “as an atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood,” satisfying justice and releasing grace. What Became Ours the Moment He Died • Forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:26; Ephesians 1:7). • Direct access to the Father (Hebrews 10:19-22). • The indwelling Spirit as a seal and guarantee (Ephesians 1:13-14). • An imperishable inheritance kept in heaven (1 Peter 1:4). Living in the Reality of an Active Will • We are not waiting for future paperwork; the covenant is already on record in Christ’s blood. • Our obedience flows from gratitude, not from trying to keep the will “on good terms.” • The Spirit serves as a present down-payment, reminding us daily that the estate is ours. Daily Confidence Drawn from His Death • When guilt whispers, point to the executed will—“He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified.” (Hebrews 10:14) • When trials come, remember the inheritance is “undefiled and unfading,” secured beyond reach of loss. • When sharing the gospel, present Christ’s death as God’s signed, sealed, and delivered covenant, available to all who believe. |
    |