Hebrews 7:26
Verse
Context
A Superior Priesthood
25Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them.26Such a high priest truly befits us—One who is holy, innocent, undefiled, set apart from sinners, and exalted above the heavens.27Unlike the other high priests, He does not need to offer daily sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the sins of the people; He sacrificed for sin once for all when He offered up Himself.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Such a high priest became us - Such a high priest was in every respect suitable to us, every way qualified to accomplish the end for which he came into the world. There is probably here an allusion to the qualifications of the Jewish high priest: - 1. He was required to be holy, ὁσιος, answering to the Hebrew חסיד chasid, merciful. Holiness was his calling; and, as he was the representative of his brethren, he was required to be merciful and compassionate. 2. He was to be harmless, ακακος, without evil - holy without, and holy within; injuring none, but rather living for the benefit of others. 3. He was undefiled, αμιαντος answering to the Hebrew באל מום baal mum, without blemish - having no bodily imperfection. Nothing low, mean, base, or unbecoming in his conduct. 4. He was separate from sinners, κεχωρισμενος απο των ἁμαρτωλων. By his office he was separated from all men and worldly occupations, and entirely devoted to the service of God. And as to sinners, or heathens, he was never to be found in their society. 5. Higher than the heavens. There may be some reference here to the exceeding dignity of the high priesthood; it was the highest office that could be sustained by man, the high priest himself being the immediate representative of God. But these things suit our Lord in a sense in which they cannot be applied to the high priest of the Jews. 1. He was holy, infinitely so; and merciful, witness his shedding his blood for the sins of mankind. 2. Harmless - perfectly without sin in his humanity, as well as his divinity. 3. Undefiled - contracted no sinful infirmity in consequence of his dwelling among men. 4. Separate from sinners - absolutely unblamable in the whole of his conduct, so that he could challenge the most inveterate of his enemies with, Which of you convicteth me of sin? Who of you can show in my conduct the slightest deviation from truth and righteousness! 5. Higher than the heavens - more exalted than all the angels of God, than all created beings, whether thrones, dominions, principalities, or powers, because all these were created by him and for him, and derive their continued subsistence from his infinite energy. But how was a person of such infinite dignity suitable to us! His greatness is put in opposition to our meanness. He was holy; We, unholy. He was harmless; We, harmful, injuring both ourselves and others. He was undefiled; We, defiled, most sinfully spotted and impure. He was separate from sinners; We were joined to sinners, companions of the vile, the worthless, the profane, and the wicked. He was higher than the heavens; We, baser and lower than the earth, totally unworthy to be called the creatures of God. And had we not had such a Savior, and had we not been redeemed at an infinite price, we should, to use the nervous language of Milton on another occasion, "after a shameful life and end in this world, have been thrown down eternally into the darkest and deepest gulf of hell, where, under the despiteful control, the trample and spurn, of all the other damned, and in the anguish of their torture should have no other ease than to exercise a raving and bestial tyranny over us as their slaves, we must have remained in that plight for ever, the basest, the lower-most, the most dejected, most under-foot and down-trodden vassals of perdition." Milton on Reformation, in fine.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
such--as is above described. The oldest manuscripts read, "also." "For to US (as sinners; emphatical) there was also becoming (besides the other excellencies of our High Priest) such an High Priest." holy--"pious" (a distinct Greek word from that for holy, which latter implies consecration) towards God; perfectly answering God's will in reverent piety (Psa 16:10). harmless--literally, "free from evil" and guile, in relation to Himself. undefiled--not defiled by stain contracted from others, in relation to men. Temptation, to which He was exposed, left no trace of evil in Him. separate--rather, "separated from sinners," namely, in His heavenly state as our High Priest above, after He had been parted from the earth, as the Levitical high priest was separated from the people in the sanctuary (whence he was not to go out), Lev 21:12. Though justifying through faith the ungodly, He hath no contact with them as such. He is lifted above our sinful community, being "made higher than the heavens," at the same time that He makes believers as such (not as sinners), "to sit together (with Him) in heavenly places" (Eph 2:6). Just as Moses on the mount was separated from and above the people, and alone with God. This proves Jesus is GOD. "Though innumerable lies have been forged against the venerable Jesus, none dared to charge Him with any intemperance" [ORIGEN]. made--Jesus was higher before (Joh 17:5), and as the God-MAN was made so by the Father after His humiliation (compare Heb 1:4). higher than the heavens--for "He passed through [so the Greek] the heavens" (Heb 4:14).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity,.... Every word has an emphasis on it, and shows the difference between Christ and these priests: they were many; they were made priests by the law, the law of a carnal commandment, which made nothing perfect, and was disannulled; they were men that were made priests by it, and could not really draw nigh to God, and mediate with him for themselves, or others, nor atone either for their own or others' sins; and they were men that had infirmity, not natural and corporeal, for they were to have no bodily blemishes and deficiencies in them, but sinful ones; and especially such were they who bore this office under the second temple, and particularly in the times of Christ and his apostles (d): but the word of the oath, which was since the law; that word which had an oath annexed to it, which declared Christ an high priest after the order of Melchizedek, was since the law of the priesthood of Aaron; for though Christ was made a priest from eternity, yet the promise which declared it, and had an oath joined to it, was afterwards in David's time, Psa 110:4 and this word of the oath maketh the son; not a son, but a priest; publishes and declares him to be so: Christ, though a man, yet he is not mere man; he is the Son of God, and as such opposed to men; and therefore is not the Son of God as man; and this shows that he was a son before he was a priest, and therefore is not so called on account of his office; and it is his being the Son of God which gives lustre and glory to his priestly office, and virtue and efficacy to his sacrifice and intercession, and gives him the preference to all other priests: who is consecrated for evermore; or "perfected", or "perfect"; he is perfect in his obedience and sufferings, in his sacrifice, and as he is now in heaven, in complete glory; the law made men priests that did not continue, but Christ is a priest for evermore, and absolutely, perfect. (d) Vid. T. Bab. Yoma, fol. 8. 2. & 9. 1. Next: Hebrews Chapter 8
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:26-27 Jesus is unstained by sin and set apart from sinners (cp. 4:15), which makes him superior to the priests of the old covenant, who had to deal with their own sins as well as those of the people (see also 5:1-3). • has been given the highest place of honor in heaven: This is an affirmation of his uniqueness as High Priest (cp. 2:9; 5:9; Phil 2:5-11). • once for all: This does not mean once for all people but rather once, never to be repeated.
Hebrews 7:26
A Superior Priesthood
25Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them.26Such a high priest truly befits us—One who is holy, innocent, undefiled, set apart from sinners, and exalted above the heavens.27Unlike the other high priests, He does not need to offer daily sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the sins of the people; He sacrificed for sin once for all when He offered up Himself.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Exodus) Exodus 28:1-3
By J. Vernon McGee3.3K06:13ExpositionalEXO 28:1EXO 28:40MAT 6:33HEB 4:14HEB 7:26HEB 9:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeing God in everything, including the instructions given in the Bible. The speaker compares the Bible to a picture book, explaining that just as children learn through pictures, the Bible's instructions are meant to be visual representations of God's glory and beauty. The sermon focuses on the instructions for making holy garments for Aaron, the high priest, and highlights how these garments symbolize Christ as our great high priest. The speaker emphasizes that God is the creator of beauty and should be honored with beautiful things, and that every detail in the garments points to Christ and His work.
When Christ Appears in Glory
By Albert Leckie1.4K40:51ChristMAT 24:6JHN 14:21CO 15:51COL 3:4TIT 2:11HEB 7:26REV 1:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the future manifestation of Jesus Christ in both judgment and salvation. He emphasizes that despite man's arrogance and disregard for the gospel, when Jesus appears, he will come in judgment. Those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel will face everlasting destruction. The preacher also highlights the importance of looking forward to the future manifestation of Jesus in glory and encourages believers to rejoice in their participation in Christ's sufferings. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Hebrews 9, Revelation 1 and 19, Matthew 24, 2 Thessalonians 1, and 1 Peter 4.
Psalm 11
By Carl Armerding96439:45PsalmsHEB 4:14HEB 7:26HEB 9:11HEB 10:21In this sermon, the speaker addresses the question of what the righteous can do when the foundations of society are destroyed. He emphasizes the importance of finding escape and refuge in the Lord, rather than seeking worldly solutions. The speaker highlights the role of Jesus as the great high priest who offers hope and salvation to believers. He also discusses the erosion of political and moral foundations in society, expressing concern over the decisions made by the Supreme Court and the behavior of legislative members.
Holiness & Humanity
By Colin Peckham8291:01:01HolinessJOS 1:3GAL 5:22EPH 5:25HEB 7:262PE 1:51JN 1:7In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing a scene in a backyard with two yellow peach trees. He mentions putting a clip on one of the trees and being by a stove. The speaker then transitions to talking about teaching his son how to play the piano and the joy he felt when his son played his first little tune. He emphasizes the importance of growth and increasing one's capacity for God, using the analogy of his son's musical abilities expanding over time. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the need for all believers to grow in maturity and Christlikeness, highlighting that we are all part of the body of Christ and should support one another in our spiritual growth.
Give Thyself Wholly
By G.W. North2351:05:35GivingPSA 110:1HEB 7:26REV 22:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God. He highlights the power and impact of a well-fed man who has a deep understanding of God's truth. The preacher also discusses the thirst of Jesus on the cross and how it symbolizes the original cry of mankind for God. He encourages ministers to give themselves fully to the Holy Spirit in order to effectively communicate God's message and leave an indelible mark on people's hearts. The sermon concludes with a reference to Psalm 45 and the role of the bride in drinking from the brook of the Holy Spirit.
Our Great High Priest Superior to Aaron
By A.B. Simpson0Better CovenantChrist's PriesthoodGEN 49:10HEB 7:1HEB 7:21HEB 7:23HEB 7:26HEB 8:6HEB 9:24HEB 10:10HEB 10:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes the superiority of Christ as our Great High Priest over Aaron and the Levitical priesthood, highlighting that Christ's priesthood is established on better promises and a better covenant. He explains that Christ belongs to a superior order of priesthood, the order of Melchizedek, and is from the tribe of Judah, which signifies His royal authority. Simpson elaborates on the eternal and unchangeable nature of Christ's priesthood, His perfect character, and the better sanctuary in which He ministers, ultimately underscoring the efficacy of His sacrifice compared to the old covenant. The sermon concludes with the assurance of Christ's ability to save completely and the call for believers to share this salvation with others.
Rev. 14:3. the Church Dwelling Alone
By Horatius Bonar0Identity in ChristSeparationNUM 23:9DEU 33:28PSA 1:1ECC 4:102CO 6:17HEB 7:26JAS 1:27JUD 1:1REV 14:3Horatius Bonar emphasizes the Church's unique position in the world, drawing parallels between Israel's separation and the Church's calling to dwell alone. He explains that the Church is redeemed from the earth and from among men to live a life distinct from worldly influences, relying solely on God for help, riches, wisdom, pleasures, and society. Bonar highlights that true joy and fulfillment come from a relationship with God rather than from the world's offerings. He urges believers to embrace their identity as a separate people, finding strength and security in their divine calling. The message encourages Christians to resist worldly temptations and to dwell in the presence of God.
God Repays
By C.H. Spurgeon0LUK 1:6ROM 16:191CO 1:8EPH 5:27PHP 2:151TH 5:231TI 3:21TI 5:7TIT 1:6HEB 7:26The preacher discusses the concept of disputing, emphasizing the negative impact of complaining and arguing within the body of Christ, which can lead to disruption and arrogance. By focusing on humility and avoiding disputes, believers can demonstrate blameless conduct and innocent character, shining as lights in a dark and perverse world. The sermon highlights the importance of maintaining a positive testimony through joyful living and refraining from murmuring and contentious behavior.
Luke 1:34-45. Mary's Visit to Elizabeth.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0LUK 1:45JHN 3:16PHP 4:7HEB 2:14HEB 4:15HEB 7:26Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the incredible faith and obedience of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who believed the angel's extraordinary message despite the challenges and doubts she would face. Mary's willingness to accept God's plan, even in the face of potential ridicule and hardship, demonstrates her deep trust in God's promises. When Mary visited Elizabeth, the older woman confirmed her faith in Mary's role as the mother of the Lord, highlighting the importance of believing in God's promises and the blessings that come with faith.
God Hath Spoken - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks0JER 1:10HEB 3:1HEB 4:12HEB 5:12HEB 7:26HEB 10:34T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the importance of believers attaining the fullness of Christ, emphasizing the need to move beyond mere conversion to spiritual growth and maturity. The sermon delves into the significance of Christ's role as the Son of God and Son of Man, highlighting His superiority and transcendence. It underscores the heavenly calling of believers, pointing to a future realization of dominion and inheritance in Christ. The message warns against false spirituality and ritualistic practices, urging a deep, personal relationship with the Lord and a reliance on the Holy Spirit for spiritual growth and revelation.
A Confessing Sinner, and a Forgiving God
By J.C. Philpot0JOB 9:30PRO 30:12PRO 30:20JER 17:9JER 31:9ROM 3:102CO 3:14HEB 7:261JN 1:8J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of acknowledging our sinful nature and the impossibility of achieving perfection in ourselves. He emphasizes that true perfection is found only in Christ and through our union with Him. Philpot highlights the deception of claiming to be without sin and the necessity of genuine confession before God. He contrasts the proud self-righteousness of those who claim perfection with the humble brokenness of those who confess their sins, reminding believers of God's faithfulness and justice to forgive and cleanse them from all unrighteousness.
Ascension of Christ
By George G. Findlay0Ascension of ChristDivine AuthorityMRK 16:19LUK 24:51JHN 14:2JHN 20:17ACT 1:9ROM 1:4EPH 1:20PHP 2:9COL 3:1HEB 7:26George G. Findlay emphasizes the significance of Christ's ascension as a divine affirmation of His identity as the Son of God. He explains that Jesus' ascension completes the resurrection and serves as a final confirmation of His supernatural life and authority. Findlay reflects on the calmness of this event, portraying it as a natural return to His heavenly origin, akin to a son returning home after completing his tasks. The sermon highlights that Jesus' departure was not just an end but a transition back to the Father, fulfilling His mission on earth. The promise of His return is also underscored, reminding believers of the hope that lies in His ascension.
The Papal and Hierarchial System - Part 4
By Joseph John Gurney0MAT 18:15JHN 20:23ACT 15:221CO 5:41TI 2:5HEB 7:26HEB 13:15JAS 5:161PE 5:2Joseph John Gurney preaches about the spiritual power of the priesthood, highlighting the dangers of the hierarchy's usurpation of authority and the abuse of spiritual power by the clergy, particularly under the papal system. He emphasizes the importance of Christ being the sole High Priest and the ultimate authority in the Church, rejecting the idea of human representatives or viceroys. Gurney delves into the scriptural basis for the priesthood, refuting the notions of absolution through human priests and the sacrificial system of the mass, asserting that Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is the only propitiation for sin. He also addresses the issue of miracles in the context of the papacy, distinguishing between the genuine miracles of the New Testament and the deceptive wonders claimed by the Roman Catholic Church.
A Compassionate High Priest and a Throne of Grace
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 34:17HEB 4:15HEB 7:26JAS 1:21PE 5:7Joseph Philpot preaches about the compassionate and merciful nature of Jesus Christ as our High Priest, who understands our weaknesses and temptations, yet remained without sin. He highlights the importance of coming boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and find grace to help in times of need. Philpot emphasizes the deep connection between our infirmities, temptations, and the throne of grace, where we can experience the sweet union and communion with the compassionate High Priest who sympathizes with our struggles.
The Character of Christ
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0ISA 53:9JHN 1:142CO 5:21PHP 2:8HEB 4:15HEB 7:261PE 1:191PE 2:221JN 3:5W.H. Griffith Thomas delves into the unparalleled personality of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the perfect blend of grace and truth that defined His character. His graciousness and truthfulness were evident in every aspect of His life, attracting people of all ages and genders. Jesus Christ's sinlessness sets Him apart from all other historical figures, with His foes, friends, and His own life testifying to His purity. The Christian Church's emphasis on Christ's sinlessness is crucial as it underpins the claim of Christianity to deliver from sin, making Him the unique Redeemer of mankind.
Ministers Ambassadors for Christ
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0Reconciliation with GodAmbassadors for ChristDEU 5:29PRO 1:24ISA 53:6LUK 1:35ROM 3:24ROM 5:192CO 5:20HEB 7:26HEB 9:141PE 2:24Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the role of ministers as ambassadors for Christ, highlighting their character, the message of reconciliation they bring, and the grounds of their mission rooted in Christ's sacrifice. He explains that ministers do not come in their own name but convey a message of mercy, urging sinners to be reconciled to God. M'Cheyne underscores the significance of Christ's sinlessness and the profound love demonstrated in His willingness to bear our sins, offering righteousness to all who believe. The sermon calls for a heartfelt response to God's invitation for reconciliation, stressing the urgency and tenderness of the message delivered by ministers.
Christmas Is Jesus (His Unique Birth and Death )
By Colin Peckham0MAT 20:28LUK 1:34JHN 8:46JHN 10:17JHN 14:30ACT 4:27HEB 4:15HEB 7:26REV 13:8Colin Peckham preaches about the miraculous birth of Jesus, emphasizing the importance of His virgin birth to uphold the integrity of Scripture and the foundation of salvation. Jesus was born without sin, being the sinless Son of God, essential for Him to accomplish our redemption. His birth was intricately connected to His ultimate purpose of sacrificial death, fulfilling a divine plan established from eternity. Through His unique birth and sacrificial death, Jesus provided a pathway for humanity to access God and experience redemption.
"Ye Are the Branches "
By Andrew Murray0LEV 16:1HEB 2:17HEB 4:14HEB 7:26HEB 8:1The preacher delves into the significance of the high priest in Israel, highlighting their role as mediators between Jehovah and the nation, especially during the Day of Atonement. The sermon explores the political influence and historical context of high priests like Caiaphas, shedding light on the complexities of their positions. Drawing parallels to Jesus as the ultimate High Priest, the preacher emphasizes how Christ's sacrifice and eternal priesthood surpass the limitations of the earthly high priests, offering eternal redemption and mercy to all who believe.
Hebrews Chapter 4 Our Great High Priest Superior to Aaron
By A.B. Simpson0SalvationChrist's PriesthoodGEN 49:10HEB 7:1HEB 7:21HEB 7:23HEB 7:26HEB 8:6HEB 9:24HEB 10:10HEB 10:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes the superiority of Christ as our Great High Priest over Aaron and the Levitical priesthood, highlighting that Christ belongs to a higher order of priesthood, that of Melchizedek. He explains that Christ's priesthood is established by divine oath, is eternal, and is characterized by His sinlessness and ability to mediate a better covenant. Simpson illustrates how Christ's sacrifice is once for all, unlike the repeated sacrifices of Aaron's line, and that through Him, believers receive full forgiveness and eternal salvation. The sermon concludes with the call for believers to embody Christ's love and serve as bridges to others, reflecting His grace and mercy.
Levi's Urim and Thummim Found With Christ.
By John Gill0Christ as High PriestDivine GuidanceEXO 28:30NUM 27:21DEU 33:8JHN 1:92CO 3:18COL 1:19COL 2:3HEB 7:261JN 2:1REV 1:5John Gill preaches on the significance of the Urim and Thummim, emphasizing that they represent the light and perfection found in Christ. He explains how these ancient tools were used by the high priest to seek God's counsel for the people of Israel, paralleling Christ's role as our High Priest who intercedes for us. Gill highlights that the true Urim and Thummim are embodied in Jesus, who fulfills the need for divine guidance and perfection. He draws connections between the historical context of the Urim and Thummim and their ultimate fulfillment in Christ's ministry, underscoring the superiority of Christ's priesthood over the Levitical system. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the completeness of all spiritual blessings in Christ, who is the source of all light and perfection.
The Saint's Inventory
By Thomas Bradbury0ISA 49:15HOS 11:8ROM 8:171CO 3:211CO 6:111CO 6:192CO 6:10EPH 1:11HEB 7:26Thomas Bradbury preaches on the profound grace of God revealed in the 1st Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians, showcasing how God's sovereign grace shines brightly in the lives of those who were once given up to sin. He emphasizes the transformation brought about by God's rich and distinguishing grace, as seen in the Corinthian Christians who were washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus. Bradbury delves into the concept of believers belonging to Christ and Christ belonging to God, highlighting the intimate relationship and possession God has in His people. He explores the believer's inventory, where all things, including ministers of the Gospel, the world, life, death, things present, and things to come, are declared to be theirs in Christ.
Epistle 313
By George Fox0ROM 1:16ROM 8:231CO 1:181CO 14:40EPH 4:7COL 3:10HEB 7:26HEB 10:251PE 2:9George Fox preaches about the power of God, which is immortal and everlasting, emphasizing that the power of God, known as the gospel, is superior to the power of the devil. He urges believers to hold on to the gospel, the heavenly and powerful order, which existed before all other worldly orders. Fox encourages believers to walk in the gospel, keep in the cross of Christ, and exhort one another, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fellowship and unity in the power of God. He also addresses the equality of men and women in Christ, highlighting that both have dominion and are restored into the image of God.
True Nazariteship
By John Nelson Darby0NazariteshipSeparation from the WorldNUM 6:1LUK 22:18ROM 1:4HEB 7:26John Nelson Darby emphasizes the concept of true Nazariteship, illustrating that greatness in the Christian life is found in servanthood and humility, contrasting it with worldly values. He explains that the cross represents grace and that true separation from sin is essential for Christians, who are called to live a life distinct from the world. Darby highlights that while Jesus was a friend to sinners on earth, He now occupies a position of holiness at God's right hand, and Christians are to reflect this separation. The Lord's Supper serves as a reminder of Christ's love and the new life believers receive, which is characterized by a divine nature that is separate from worldly influences. Ultimately, Darby calls Christians to embrace their identity as Nazarites, living in joy and hope while remaining distinct from the world that rejected Christ.
2 Corinthians v. 21
By John Owen0Righteousness of GodImputationLEV 16:21ISA 45:24ISA 53:6ROM 4:6ROM 8:332CO 5:172CO 5:21GAL 2:20HEB 7:261PE 2:22John Owen expounds on 2 Corinthians 5:21, emphasizing the profound truth that Christ, who knew no sin, was made sin for us through the imputation of our sins to Him. He clarifies that this does not imply any inherent sinfulness in Christ but rather highlights the grace of God in our reconciliation. Owen addresses misconceptions regarding this passage, particularly the arguments against the imputation of Christ's righteousness to believers, affirming that we are made the righteousness of God in Him. He argues that our justification is solely by God's act of imputing Christ's righteousness to us, contrasting it with the imputation of sin to Christ. Ultimately, Owen underscores the significance of understanding Christ's role in our salvation and the nature of our righteousness before God.
Entire Sanctification as Taught by Jesus Christ
By Dougan Clark0MAT 5:8LUK 1:35LUK 10:41LUK 18:22JHN 12:24JHN 17:17HEB 7:26Dougan Clark preaches about the holiness of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His sinless nature and the expectation for His followers to pursue holiness. The sermon delves into the Sermon on the Mount, highlighting the call to holiness as a privilege and duty for believers, with references to teachings that require sanctification. The sermon also explores the concept of heart purity and entire sanctification, drawing from biblical examples like the Psalms and the teachings of Jesus. It concludes with the importance of being dead to sin and self in order to attain the blessing of entire sanctification.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Such a high priest became us - Such a high priest was in every respect suitable to us, every way qualified to accomplish the end for which he came into the world. There is probably here an allusion to the qualifications of the Jewish high priest: - 1. He was required to be holy, ὁσιος, answering to the Hebrew חסיד chasid, merciful. Holiness was his calling; and, as he was the representative of his brethren, he was required to be merciful and compassionate. 2. He was to be harmless, ακακος, without evil - holy without, and holy within; injuring none, but rather living for the benefit of others. 3. He was undefiled, αμιαντος answering to the Hebrew באל מום baal mum, without blemish - having no bodily imperfection. Nothing low, mean, base, or unbecoming in his conduct. 4. He was separate from sinners, κεχωρισμενος απο των ἁμαρτωλων. By his office he was separated from all men and worldly occupations, and entirely devoted to the service of God. And as to sinners, or heathens, he was never to be found in their society. 5. Higher than the heavens. There may be some reference here to the exceeding dignity of the high priesthood; it was the highest office that could be sustained by man, the high priest himself being the immediate representative of God. But these things suit our Lord in a sense in which they cannot be applied to the high priest of the Jews. 1. He was holy, infinitely so; and merciful, witness his shedding his blood for the sins of mankind. 2. Harmless - perfectly without sin in his humanity, as well as his divinity. 3. Undefiled - contracted no sinful infirmity in consequence of his dwelling among men. 4. Separate from sinners - absolutely unblamable in the whole of his conduct, so that he could challenge the most inveterate of his enemies with, Which of you convicteth me of sin? Who of you can show in my conduct the slightest deviation from truth and righteousness! 5. Higher than the heavens - more exalted than all the angels of God, than all created beings, whether thrones, dominions, principalities, or powers, because all these were created by him and for him, and derive their continued subsistence from his infinite energy. But how was a person of such infinite dignity suitable to us! His greatness is put in opposition to our meanness. He was holy; We, unholy. He was harmless; We, harmful, injuring both ourselves and others. He was undefiled; We, defiled, most sinfully spotted and impure. He was separate from sinners; We were joined to sinners, companions of the vile, the worthless, the profane, and the wicked. He was higher than the heavens; We, baser and lower than the earth, totally unworthy to be called the creatures of God. And had we not had such a Savior, and had we not been redeemed at an infinite price, we should, to use the nervous language of Milton on another occasion, "after a shameful life and end in this world, have been thrown down eternally into the darkest and deepest gulf of hell, where, under the despiteful control, the trample and spurn, of all the other damned, and in the anguish of their torture should have no other ease than to exercise a raving and bestial tyranny over us as their slaves, we must have remained in that plight for ever, the basest, the lower-most, the most dejected, most under-foot and down-trodden vassals of perdition." Milton on Reformation, in fine.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
such--as is above described. The oldest manuscripts read, "also." "For to US (as sinners; emphatical) there was also becoming (besides the other excellencies of our High Priest) such an High Priest." holy--"pious" (a distinct Greek word from that for holy, which latter implies consecration) towards God; perfectly answering God's will in reverent piety (Psa 16:10). harmless--literally, "free from evil" and guile, in relation to Himself. undefiled--not defiled by stain contracted from others, in relation to men. Temptation, to which He was exposed, left no trace of evil in Him. separate--rather, "separated from sinners," namely, in His heavenly state as our High Priest above, after He had been parted from the earth, as the Levitical high priest was separated from the people in the sanctuary (whence he was not to go out), Lev 21:12. Though justifying through faith the ungodly, He hath no contact with them as such. He is lifted above our sinful community, being "made higher than the heavens," at the same time that He makes believers as such (not as sinners), "to sit together (with Him) in heavenly places" (Eph 2:6). Just as Moses on the mount was separated from and above the people, and alone with God. This proves Jesus is GOD. "Though innumerable lies have been forged against the venerable Jesus, none dared to charge Him with any intemperance" [ORIGEN]. made--Jesus was higher before (Joh 17:5), and as the God-MAN was made so by the Father after His humiliation (compare Heb 1:4). higher than the heavens--for "He passed through [so the Greek] the heavens" (Heb 4:14).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity,.... Every word has an emphasis on it, and shows the difference between Christ and these priests: they were many; they were made priests by the law, the law of a carnal commandment, which made nothing perfect, and was disannulled; they were men that were made priests by it, and could not really draw nigh to God, and mediate with him for themselves, or others, nor atone either for their own or others' sins; and they were men that had infirmity, not natural and corporeal, for they were to have no bodily blemishes and deficiencies in them, but sinful ones; and especially such were they who bore this office under the second temple, and particularly in the times of Christ and his apostles (d): but the word of the oath, which was since the law; that word which had an oath annexed to it, which declared Christ an high priest after the order of Melchizedek, was since the law of the priesthood of Aaron; for though Christ was made a priest from eternity, yet the promise which declared it, and had an oath joined to it, was afterwards in David's time, Psa 110:4 and this word of the oath maketh the son; not a son, but a priest; publishes and declares him to be so: Christ, though a man, yet he is not mere man; he is the Son of God, and as such opposed to men; and therefore is not the Son of God as man; and this shows that he was a son before he was a priest, and therefore is not so called on account of his office; and it is his being the Son of God which gives lustre and glory to his priestly office, and virtue and efficacy to his sacrifice and intercession, and gives him the preference to all other priests: who is consecrated for evermore; or "perfected", or "perfect"; he is perfect in his obedience and sufferings, in his sacrifice, and as he is now in heaven, in complete glory; the law made men priests that did not continue, but Christ is a priest for evermore, and absolutely, perfect. (d) Vid. T. Bab. Yoma, fol. 8. 2. & 9. 1. Next: Hebrews Chapter 8
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:26-27 Jesus is unstained by sin and set apart from sinners (cp. 4:15), which makes him superior to the priests of the old covenant, who had to deal with their own sins as well as those of the people (see also 5:1-3). • has been given the highest place of honor in heaven: This is an affirmation of his uniqueness as High Priest (cp. 2:9; 5:9; Phil 2:5-11). • once for all: This does not mean once for all people but rather once, never to be repeated.