Hebrews 2:17
Verse
Context
Jesus like His Brothers
16For surely it is not the angels He helps, but the descendants of Abraham. 17For this reason He had to be made like His brothers in every way, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, in order to make atonement for the sins of the people.18Because He Himself suffered when He was tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore in all things - Because he thus laid hold on man in order to redeem him, it was necessary that he should in all things become like to man, that he might suffer in his stead, and make an atonement in his nature. That he might be a merciful and faithful high priest - Ἱνα ελεημων γενηται· That he might be merciful - that he might be affected with a feeling of our infirmities, that, partaking of our nature with all its innocent infirmities and afflictions, he might know how to compassionate poor, afflicted, suffering man. And that he might be a faithful high priest in those things which relate to God, whose justice requires the punishment of the transgressors, or a suitable expiation to be made for the sins of the people. The proper meaning of ἱλασκεσθαι τας ἁμαρτιας is to make propitiation or atonement for sins by sacrifice. See the note on Luk 18:13, where it [this word] is particularly explained. Christ is the great High Priest of mankind; 1. He exercises himself in the things pertaining to God, taking heed that God's honor be properly secured, his worship properly regulated, his laws properly enforced, and both his justice and mercy magnified. Again, 2. He exercises himself in things pertaining to Men, that he may make an atonement for them, apply this atonement to them, and liberate them thereby from the curse of a broken law, from the guilt and power of sin, from its inbeing and nature, and from all the evils to which they were exposed through it, and lastly that he might open their way into the holiest by his own blood; and he has mercifully and faithfully accomplished all that he has undertaken.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore--Greek, "Whence." Found in Paul's speech, Act 26:19. in all things--which are incidental to manhood, the being born, nourished, growing up, suffering. Sin is not, in the original constitution of man, a necessary attendant of manhood, so He had no sin. it behooved him--by moral necessity, considering what the justice and love of God required of Him as Mediator (compare Heb 5:3), the office which He had voluntarily undertaken in order to "help" man (Heb 2:16). his brethren-- (Heb 2:11); "the seed of Abraham" (Heb 2:16), and so also the spiritual seed, His elect out of all mankind. be, &c.--rather as Greek, "that He might become High Priest"; He was called so, when He was "made perfect by the things which He suffered" (Heb 2:10; Heb 5:8-10). He was actually made so, when He entered within the veil, from which last flows His ever continuing intercession as Priest for us. The death, as man, must first be, in order that the bringing in of the blood into the heavenly Holy Place might follow, in which consisted the expiation as High Priest. merciful--to "the people" deserving wrath by "sins." Mercy is a prime requisite in a priest, since his office is to help the wretched and raise the fallen: such mercy is most likely to be found in one who has a fellow-feeling with the afflicted, having been so once Himself (Heb 4:15); not that the Son of God needed to be taught by suffering to be merciful, but that in order to save us He needed to take our manhood with all its sorrows, thereby qualifying Himself, by experimental suffering with us, to be our sympathizing High Priest, and assuring us of His entire fellow-feeling with us in every sorrow. So in the main CALVIN remarks here. faithful--true to God (Heb 3:5-6) and to man (Heb 10:23) in the mediatorial office which He has undertaken. high priest--which Moses was not, though "faithful" (Heb. 2:1-18). Nowhere, except in Psa 110:4; Zac 6:13, and in this Epistle, is Christ expressly called a priest. In this Epistle alone His priesthood is professedly discussed; whence it is evident how necessary is this book of the New Testament. In Psa 110:1-7, and Zac 6:13, there is added mention of the kingdom of Christ, which elsewhere is spoken of without the priesthood, and that frequently. On the cross, whereon as Priest He offered the sacrifice, He had the title "King" inscribed over Him [BENGEL]. to make reconciliation for the sins--rather as Greek, "to propitiate (in respect to) the sins"; "to expiate the sins." Strictly divine justice is "propitiated"; but God's love is as much from everlasting as His justice; therefore, lest Christ's sacrifice, or its typical forerunners, the legal sacrifices, should be thought to be antecedent to God's grace and love, neither are said in the Old or New Testament to have propitiated God; otherwise Christ's sacrifices might have been thought to have first induced God to love and pity man, instead of (as the fact really is) His love having originated Christ's sacrifice, whereby divine justice and divine love are harmonized. The sinner is brought by that sacrifice into God's favor, which by sin he had forfeited; hence his right prayer is, "God be propitiated (so the Greek) to me who am a sinner" (Luk 18:13). Sins bring death and "the fear of death" (Heb 2:15). He had no sin Himself, and "made reconciliation for the iniquity" of all others (Dan 9:24). of the people--"the seed of Abraham" (Heb 2:16); the literal Israel first, and then (in the design of God), through Israel, the believing Gentiles, the spiritual Israel (Pe1 2:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted,.... By Satan, at his entrance on his public ministry, and a little before his death; which was done, not by stirring up sin in him, for he had none, nor by putting any into him, which could not be done, nor could Satan get any advantage over him; he solicited him one thing and another, but in vain; though these temptations were very troublesome, and disagreeable, and abhorrent to the pure and holy nature of Christ, and so must be reckoned among his sufferings, or things by which he suffered: and as afflictions are sometimes called temptations, in this sense also Christ suffered, being tempted, with outward poverty and meanness, with slight and neglect from his own relations, and with a general contempt and reproach among men: he was often tempted by the Jews with ensnaring questions; he was deserted by his followers, by his own disciples, yea, by his God and Father; all which were great trials to him, and must be accounted as sufferings: and he also endured great pains of body, and anguish of mind, and at last death itself. And so he is able to succour them that are tempted; as all the saints, more or less, are, both with Satan's temptations, and with afflictions in the world, which God suffers to befall them, on various accounts; partly on his own account, to show his grace, power, and faithfulness in supporting under them, and in delivering out of them; and partly on his Son's account, that they might be like unto him, and he may have an opportunity of succouring them, and sympathizing with them; and also on their own account, to humble them, to try their faith, to excite them to prayer and watchfulness, and to keep them dependent on the power and grace of God: and these Christ succours, by having and showing a fellow feeling with them; by praying for them; by supporting them under temptations; by rebuking the tempter, and delivering out of them: and all this he is able to do; he must be able to succour them as he is God; and his conquering Satan is a convincing evidence to the saints of his ability; but here it intends his qualification, and fitness, and readiness to help in such circumstances, from the experience he himself has had of these things. Next: Hebrews Chapter 3
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:17-18 These verses introduce Jesus’ role as our merciful and faithful High Priest, which is fully discussed in the central section of Hebrews (4:14–10:25). • It was necessary for him to share our humanity (see 5:1).
Hebrews 2:17
Jesus like His Brothers
16For surely it is not the angels He helps, but the descendants of Abraham. 17For this reason He had to be made like His brothers in every way, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, in order to make atonement for the sins of the people.18Because He Himself suffered when He was tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Christmas Question
By C.H. Spurgeon11K48:37PSA 36:1ISA 9:6MAT 6:33JHN 1:12ROM 8:142CO 5:21HEB 2:17The sermon transcript describes the pitiable condition of those who died from hunger and cold in the streets. It then transitions to a depiction of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, emphasizing his suffering and the completion of the atonement for sin. The sermon urges sinners to believe in Christ and find salvation. It concludes with a call to rejoice and celebrate the birth of Jesus, comparing it to the joyous celebration of a prince being born.
(Basics) 32. Humility in Jesus Coming to Earth
By Zac Poonen2.7K13:02MAT 1:1MAT 23:8LUK 22:27JHN 1:14HEB 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a servant's heart, just like Jesus did. He highlights how Jesus came to serve and bless others, rather than seeking to be served. The preacher also points out the contrast between the spirit of self-exaltation often found among Christians and the humility demonstrated by Jesus. He emphasizes that Jesus took the lowest place and lived as a servant, despite being God in human form. The preacher concludes by stating that the true greatness of God is seen in His humility and His willingness to identify with humanity.
Jesus - Our Forerunner
By Zac Poonen1.9K1:28:13JesusMAT 6:33MRK 6:3LUK 4:22HEB 2:17In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of a millionaire living in a slum to illustrate how Jesus chose to live among us and teach us how to live with limited resources. The speaker emphasizes the importance of using our time wisely and not wasting it on useless activities like watching television. He encourages listeners to find relaxation and joy in singing songs of love to Jesus. The speaker also highlights the need to make daily decisions that align with God's will and to confront and address any wrongdoing in a righteous manner, just as Jesus did when he cleansed the temple.
Priesthood - Part 1
By Ron Bailey1.6K52:05PriesthoodGEN 32:13PSA 22:1HEB 1:3HEB 2:14HEB 2:17HEB 7:1HEB 7:25In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal anecdote about going to Madame Tussauds with his large family and waiting in a queue. He then transitions to discussing the story of Jacob from the Bible, who had been away from his family for many years and was now returning. The speaker emphasizes the frustration of not being able to fully communicate truth and love to others, just as God experienced in the Old Testament. However, the speaker highlights that Jesus Christ is God's ultimate revelation and final word to humanity.
(Hebrews) ch.5:7-6:15
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:20:56MAT 26:36ROM 8:13HEB 2:17HEB 4:15HEB 5:6HEB 6:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Jesus as a man who experienced temptation and fear of falling into sin. He emphasizes that Jesus, as our high priest, was tempted in every way just like us, yet he did not commit sin. The preacher highlights Jesus' prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, where he prayed with strong crying and tears, showing his godly fear and dependence on God. The necessity for Jesus to pray in such a manner was to be saved from the death that is the wages of sin. Through his prayers, Jesus was heard and saved from spiritual death.
Living as Jesus Lived (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:00:04MAT 5:14MAT 7:12JHN 9:5HEB 2:17HEB 4:151PE 2:211JN 1:4This sermon emphasizes the possibility of living a life like Jesus did on earth, highlighting the importance of understanding that Jesus, though God, lived without using His divine powers and faced every situation like a human. It challenges believers to adopt the values and attitudes of Jesus, such as purity, forgiveness, and love, and to reject the lies of the devil that living a victorious Christian life is impossible. The message encourages believers to walk in the light, have fellowship with God, and allow the Holy Spirit to transform their lives to reflect the life of Christ.
Able to Save to T/uttermost 01 Because of His Character
By James R. Cochrane71341:55ISA 42:1HEB 2:17HEB 7:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of the moral character of Jesus in his ability to save people. He starts by sharing a story from the book of Genesis about a mysterious person called Melchizedek. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus is able to face and overcome the enemy because of his moral character. He also mentions that in our current age, moral standards are being lowered, highlighting the significance of Jesus' righteousness. The sermon concludes by mentioning that the next topics to be discussed are the greatness of Jesus and his unique priesthood.
Behold the Man
By Gary Ham48949:35MAT 10:37JHN 8:36JHN 14:6JHN 14:92CO 3:17COL 3:17HEB 2:17HEB 12:2REV 3:20This sermon focuses on the significance of beholding Jesus as the central focus of our lives, highlighting how Jesus, as the perfect man, represents both God's character on earth and humanity's representation in heaven. It emphasizes the importance of surrendering to Jesus, acknowledging His power to save, transform, and bring freedom in our lives.
Christ as Our Priest
By Roger Ellsworth41332:40ChristMAT 6:33HEB 2:17HEB 5:1HEB 7:25REV 21:27In this sermon, the speaker discusses the doctrine of the mediation of Jesus Christ. He explains that in order to function as a mediator, Jesus had to fill three sub-mediatorial offices: prophet, priest, and king. The speaker emphasizes the importance of Christ as our priest, stating that without him in this role, we would have no hope of heaven. He also highlights the biblical imagery of God's reaction to sin, describing it as repulsive and anger-inducing.
The Hidden Manna
By G.W. North21152:32MannaMAT 6:33HEB 2:17REV 2:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the significance of a white stone in biblical times as a symbol of being found guiltless. The sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and living a life that aligns with God's highest and best. The speaker encourages listeners to deeply internalize the principle of repentance and strive to be in line with God's intentions. The sermon also highlights the need for genuine praise and worship, not just repeating phrases, but truly understanding and embracing the truth behind them.
Of Propitiation, Atonement, and Reconciliation, as Ascribed to Christ.
By John Gill2AtonementReconciliationZEC 13:7JHN 3:16ROM 3:25ROM 5:8ROM 5:102CO 5:18EPH 2:16COL 1:20HEB 2:171JN 2:2John Gill expounds on the concepts of propitiation, atonement, and reconciliation as they relate to Christ, emphasizing that while the term 'satisfaction' is not explicitly used in Scripture, its essence is captured in these terms. He explains that Christ serves as the propitiation for our sins, satisfying God's justice and reconciling humanity to Him through His sacrificial death. Gill highlights that reconciliation is initiated by God and accomplished through Christ, who intercedes on behalf of sinners, transforming them from enemies to friends of God. The sermon underscores the necessity of Christ's sacrifice for the restoration of the relationship between God and humanity, illustrating the profound implications of His atoning work. Ultimately, Gill affirms that reconciliation is not about changing God's love but about addressing the justice that sin demands.
Hebrews 5 Lonsdale Square
By John Nelson Darby0ApostasyChrist's PriesthoodPSA 110:4MAT 7:22JHN 14:16GAL 3:5HEB 2:17HEB 4:15HEB 6:10HEB 10:14HEB 12:21JN 2:1John Nelson Darby discusses the role of Christ as High Priest, emphasizing that while He performed priestly duties, His work on the cross was foundational rather than intercessory. He explains that the high priest on the Day of Atonement represented the people, and Christ's role as both victim and priest was fulfilled at the cross. Darby clarifies that the priesthood of Christ is distinct from the Jewish priesthood, as He is a living priest in the order of Melchisedec, and that believers have a perfected conscience through His sacrifice. He warns against the dangers of apostasy and the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit's presence in the church today.
(The New Covenant Servant) 4. an Example for Others to Follow
By Zac Poonen0New Covenant LeadershipServanthoodMAT 11:11JHN 17:2ROM 1:11CO 11:12CO 1:42CO 6:3PHP 3:17HEB 2:171PE 2:211JN 2:6Zac Poonen emphasizes the transformative nature of the new covenant, highlighting that while John the Baptist was the greatest prophet of the old covenant, even the least in the new covenant can achieve greater heights. He explains that Jesus serves as our ultimate example of servanthood, calling us to lead others towards the Divine nature rather than merely ruling over them. Poonen stresses the importance of personal sanctification and the necessity for leaders to be examples in speech, love, faith, and purity, urging that true ministry comes from overcoming personal trials and leading others to do the same. He warns against the dangers of seeking human approval and emphasizes the need for humility, likening true leadership to that of a child. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the essence of servanthood as bondslaves of Christ, free from the desire for material gain or recognition.
The Secret of Gaining God's Approval
By Zac Poonen0Faithfulness to GodOvercoming TemptationPHP 2:5HEB 2:10HEB 2:17Zac Poonen emphasizes that Jesus, as our High Priest, faced every temptation we encounter, providing us with the encouragement to overcome our struggles. He illustrates how Jesus lived a life of integrity and humility, even in the face of everyday temptations, and highlights that true approval from God comes from faithfulness in our daily lives rather than seeking fame or miracles. Poonen encourages believers to adopt the same attitude as Christ, prioritizing obedience to God over personal desires, and assures that anyone can be an overcomer regardless of their circumstances.
Our Daily Homily - Hebrews
By F.B. Meyer0God's Unchanging NatureRest in ChristHEB 1:12HEB 2:17HEB 3:1HEB 4:9HEB 5:14HEB 6:6HEB 7:16HEB 8:13HEB 9:28HEB 10:9F.B. Meyer emphasizes the unchanging nature of God in his sermon 'Our Daily Homily - Hebrews', contrasting God's eternal consistency with the transient nature of creation, humanity, and our own emotions. He highlights that while great figures of faith have come and gone, God remains the same, providing a steadfast refuge and a merciful high priest. Meyer encourages believers to consider Jesus in various roles, including Apostle and Priest, and to find rest in Him amidst life's challenges. He reassures that there is a divine rest available for weary souls, which is both a present experience and a future hope. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a deeper connection with Christ, urging believers to be perfected in every good work to fulfill God's will.
1 John 2:2
By A.W. Pink0AtonementAssurance of SalvationISA 53:11ISA 64:10JHN 11:51ROM 1:8ROM 3:25GAL 2:9COL 1:5HEB 2:171JN 2:2REV 12:9A.W. Pink examines 1 John 2:2, arguing against the interpretation that Christ's propitiation is universal for all humanity. He emphasizes that the verse is specifically addressing believers, particularly Jewish believers, and that the term 'whole world' refers to Gentile believers as well. Pink asserts that the atonement is effective and not a failure, as it is designed to accomplish God's purpose without ambiguity. He warns against the implications of a universal atonement that could undermine the assurance of salvation for believers. Ultimately, Pink calls for a return to the biblical understanding of Christ's propitiation as limited to those who have faith.
Of the Priestly Office of Christ.
By John Gill0Atonement and SacrificeThe Priesthood of ChristPSA 110:4ISA 53:10ACT 2:23ROM 3:25EPH 1:71TI 2:5HEB 2:17HEB 9:14HEB 10:51PE 1:18John Gill expounds on the priestly office of Christ, emphasizing that His role as a priest was predetermined by God to serve as a propitiatory sacrifice for sin, fulfilling the requirements of divine justice. He highlights that Christ's priesthood is eternal and superior, established not through the law of Moses but through the order of Melchizedek, and that His sacrifice was unique, sufficient, and voluntary, offering redemption for His people. Gill also discusses the dual nature of Christ as both God and man, which qualifies Him to mediate and intercede for humanity, ultimately securing eternal salvation for those who believe.
I Have Exalted One Chosen Out of the People
By C.H. Spurgeon0Comfort in SufferingChrist as Our BrotherHEB 2:17C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound relationship between Christ and believers, portraying Jesus as a brother who shares in our humanity and understands our struggles. He reassures believers that Christ, chosen from among the people, sympathizes with our needs and experiences, having faced temptation and suffering Himself. This connection offers comfort and confidence, reminding us that Jesus walks with us through life's challenges, including the darkest moments. Spurgeon encourages believers to cherish this relationship, knowing that Christ's presence and understanding provide strength and hope in adversity.
The Two Natures
By A.W. Pink0Human ResponsibilityTwo NaturesPSA 51:4JHN 3:6JHN 3:8ROM 3:20GAL 5:17EPH 5:26TIT 3:5HEB 2:171PE 1:231JN 3:9A.W. Pink explores the concept of the two natures within a believer, emphasizing that every Christian possesses both a fallen nature inherited from Adam and a new nature born of the Spirit. He clarifies that while the Fall did not destroy any part of man's being, it corrupted it, leading to a struggle between good and evil within. Pink warns against misconceptions regarding human responsibility, asserting that individuals are accountable for their actions regardless of their natures. He highlights the importance of recognizing that the person, not the nature, is responsible for sin, and encourages believers to nurture their spiritual nature while resisting the flesh. Ultimately, Pink calls for a clear understanding of these two natures to avoid confusion and to live a life that honors God.
The Incarnation of the Son of God
By Olin Alfred Curtis0JHN 1:14JHN 14:9PHP 2:5PHP 3:21HEB 2:17Olin Alfred Curtis preaches on the doctrine of the Incarnation, emphasizing the Son of God becoming man for the redemption of humanity. He discusses the importance of starting with the Son of God in the glory of the Godhead, highlighting Jesus Christ as God become man. Curtis delves into the significance of the virgin birth in the Incarnation, addressing its inherent fitness and connection to the miraculous nature of the Incarnation itself. He explores the humiliation of the Kenosis, focusing on Saint Paul's teachings and the deep theological implications of Jesus' self-emptying and taking on the form of a servant. Curtis also examines the ethical and moral aspects of Christ's sacrifice, the reality of his temptation, and the authority of Jesus Christ, shedding light on the complexity of his divine and human natures.
The Incarnation of the Son of God
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0LUK 1:35JHN 1:29JHN 10:11HEB 1:1HEB 2:17Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the profound truth of the Incarnation of the Son of God, emphasizing the divine mystery and reverence surrounding this event. The announcement of the Incarnation to the Virgin Mary by the angel Gabriel is highlighted, revealing the unique nature of Jesus' birth through the Holy Spirit. Gaebelein stresses the importance of the Incarnation as the foundation of the Gospel, essential for understanding God's love and the revelation of His attributes to humanity. He also explains that while the Incarnation revealed God to man, it could not accomplish redemption; only through Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross could sin be atoned for and humanity reconciled to God.
Epistle to the Hebrews - Introduction
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0HEB 1:1HEB 2:17HEB 4:14HEB 7:1HEB 11:1Arno Clemens Gaebelein delves into the Epistle to the Hebrews, exploring the mystery surrounding its authorship and the possible motives behind the anonymity. The Epistle is believed to have been written to Jewish Christians facing persecution and pressure to return to Judaism, providing them with instructions, teachings, and comfort. It emphasizes the Priesthood of Christ, contrasting Him with angels, Moses, Aaron, and Melchisedec, and highlighting the importance of knowing Christ in His fullness and glory for steadfastness and comfort.
Colossians 1:15-18
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 18:10MAT 23:3JHN 14:27ACT 23:51CO 3:102CO 5:18EPH 2:14COL 1:15HEB 2:17John Chrysostom preaches about the exalted nature of Jesus Christ as the Image of the invisible God and the Firstborn of all creation. He emphasizes that Jesus, as God's Son, is the exact likeness of God and superior to all, including Angels. Chrysostom explains that Jesus, as the Firstborn from the dead, is the Firstfruits of the Resurrection, reconciling all things to Himself through His sacrifice on the Cross. He highlights the importance of peace, unity, and reconciliation among believers, pointing out that Christ's work brought harmony between heaven and earth, even reconciling Angels and humans.
(Living as Jesus Lived) 1. God's Purpose for Man
By Zac Poonen0GEN 1:26JHN 1:1ROM 8:282CO 3:18EPH 1:19PHP 2:6HEB 2:171PE 2:211JN 2:6Zac Poonen emphasizes that God created man not out of need for a servant, but to manifest His character and nature. The redemption provided through Christ aims to bring us back to fulfilling God's original purpose for man - to reflect His nature. By understanding the dual nature of Christ - His Deity and humanity - believers can avoid incomplete views of Jesus and strive to be conformed to His likeness through the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the shaping of circumstances by God the Father.
The Basis for Forgiveness
By Oswald Chambers0JHN 17:4GAL 3:13EPH 1:7HEB 2:17HEB 9:221PE 2:24Oswald Chambers emphasizes that the forgiveness of sins is not based on God's kindness alone, but on the sacrificial death of Jesus on the Cross. He warns against viewing God's forgiveness lightly, as it came at a great cost and should never be separated from the Atonement. Chambers stresses that God's forgiveness is a divine miracle of grace, only made possible through the supernatural realm of the Cross. He highlights that sanctification, though important, pales in comparison to the profound gratitude we should have for God's forgiveness of our sins, a truth that Paul never strayed from.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore in all things - Because he thus laid hold on man in order to redeem him, it was necessary that he should in all things become like to man, that he might suffer in his stead, and make an atonement in his nature. That he might be a merciful and faithful high priest - Ἱνα ελεημων γενηται· That he might be merciful - that he might be affected with a feeling of our infirmities, that, partaking of our nature with all its innocent infirmities and afflictions, he might know how to compassionate poor, afflicted, suffering man. And that he might be a faithful high priest in those things which relate to God, whose justice requires the punishment of the transgressors, or a suitable expiation to be made for the sins of the people. The proper meaning of ἱλασκεσθαι τας ἁμαρτιας is to make propitiation or atonement for sins by sacrifice. See the note on Luk 18:13, where it [this word] is particularly explained. Christ is the great High Priest of mankind; 1. He exercises himself in the things pertaining to God, taking heed that God's honor be properly secured, his worship properly regulated, his laws properly enforced, and both his justice and mercy magnified. Again, 2. He exercises himself in things pertaining to Men, that he may make an atonement for them, apply this atonement to them, and liberate them thereby from the curse of a broken law, from the guilt and power of sin, from its inbeing and nature, and from all the evils to which they were exposed through it, and lastly that he might open their way into the holiest by his own blood; and he has mercifully and faithfully accomplished all that he has undertaken.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore--Greek, "Whence." Found in Paul's speech, Act 26:19. in all things--which are incidental to manhood, the being born, nourished, growing up, suffering. Sin is not, in the original constitution of man, a necessary attendant of manhood, so He had no sin. it behooved him--by moral necessity, considering what the justice and love of God required of Him as Mediator (compare Heb 5:3), the office which He had voluntarily undertaken in order to "help" man (Heb 2:16). his brethren-- (Heb 2:11); "the seed of Abraham" (Heb 2:16), and so also the spiritual seed, His elect out of all mankind. be, &c.--rather as Greek, "that He might become High Priest"; He was called so, when He was "made perfect by the things which He suffered" (Heb 2:10; Heb 5:8-10). He was actually made so, when He entered within the veil, from which last flows His ever continuing intercession as Priest for us. The death, as man, must first be, in order that the bringing in of the blood into the heavenly Holy Place might follow, in which consisted the expiation as High Priest. merciful--to "the people" deserving wrath by "sins." Mercy is a prime requisite in a priest, since his office is to help the wretched and raise the fallen: such mercy is most likely to be found in one who has a fellow-feeling with the afflicted, having been so once Himself (Heb 4:15); not that the Son of God needed to be taught by suffering to be merciful, but that in order to save us He needed to take our manhood with all its sorrows, thereby qualifying Himself, by experimental suffering with us, to be our sympathizing High Priest, and assuring us of His entire fellow-feeling with us in every sorrow. So in the main CALVIN remarks here. faithful--true to God (Heb 3:5-6) and to man (Heb 10:23) in the mediatorial office which He has undertaken. high priest--which Moses was not, though "faithful" (Heb. 2:1-18). Nowhere, except in Psa 110:4; Zac 6:13, and in this Epistle, is Christ expressly called a priest. In this Epistle alone His priesthood is professedly discussed; whence it is evident how necessary is this book of the New Testament. In Psa 110:1-7, and Zac 6:13, there is added mention of the kingdom of Christ, which elsewhere is spoken of without the priesthood, and that frequently. On the cross, whereon as Priest He offered the sacrifice, He had the title "King" inscribed over Him [BENGEL]. to make reconciliation for the sins--rather as Greek, "to propitiate (in respect to) the sins"; "to expiate the sins." Strictly divine justice is "propitiated"; but God's love is as much from everlasting as His justice; therefore, lest Christ's sacrifice, or its typical forerunners, the legal sacrifices, should be thought to be antecedent to God's grace and love, neither are said in the Old or New Testament to have propitiated God; otherwise Christ's sacrifices might have been thought to have first induced God to love and pity man, instead of (as the fact really is) His love having originated Christ's sacrifice, whereby divine justice and divine love are harmonized. The sinner is brought by that sacrifice into God's favor, which by sin he had forfeited; hence his right prayer is, "God be propitiated (so the Greek) to me who am a sinner" (Luk 18:13). Sins bring death and "the fear of death" (Heb 2:15). He had no sin Himself, and "made reconciliation for the iniquity" of all others (Dan 9:24). of the people--"the seed of Abraham" (Heb 2:16); the literal Israel first, and then (in the design of God), through Israel, the believing Gentiles, the spiritual Israel (Pe1 2:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted,.... By Satan, at his entrance on his public ministry, and a little before his death; which was done, not by stirring up sin in him, for he had none, nor by putting any into him, which could not be done, nor could Satan get any advantage over him; he solicited him one thing and another, but in vain; though these temptations were very troublesome, and disagreeable, and abhorrent to the pure and holy nature of Christ, and so must be reckoned among his sufferings, or things by which he suffered: and as afflictions are sometimes called temptations, in this sense also Christ suffered, being tempted, with outward poverty and meanness, with slight and neglect from his own relations, and with a general contempt and reproach among men: he was often tempted by the Jews with ensnaring questions; he was deserted by his followers, by his own disciples, yea, by his God and Father; all which were great trials to him, and must be accounted as sufferings: and he also endured great pains of body, and anguish of mind, and at last death itself. And so he is able to succour them that are tempted; as all the saints, more or less, are, both with Satan's temptations, and with afflictions in the world, which God suffers to befall them, on various accounts; partly on his own account, to show his grace, power, and faithfulness in supporting under them, and in delivering out of them; and partly on his Son's account, that they might be like unto him, and he may have an opportunity of succouring them, and sympathizing with them; and also on their own account, to humble them, to try their faith, to excite them to prayer and watchfulness, and to keep them dependent on the power and grace of God: and these Christ succours, by having and showing a fellow feeling with them; by praying for them; by supporting them under temptations; by rebuking the tempter, and delivering out of them: and all this he is able to do; he must be able to succour them as he is God; and his conquering Satan is a convincing evidence to the saints of his ability; but here it intends his qualification, and fitness, and readiness to help in such circumstances, from the experience he himself has had of these things. Next: Hebrews Chapter 3
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:17-18 These verses introduce Jesus’ role as our merciful and faithful High Priest, which is fully discussed in the central section of Hebrews (4:14–10:25). • It was necessary for him to share our humanity (see 5:1).