Hebrews 5: Our High Priest

Hebrews chapter 5 continues the thoughts of the end of chapter 4. The end of chapter 4 explains that because Jesus was also human, he was uniquely qualified to sympathize with our human weakness. Since he was tempted and tried like us in every way. In the beginning of chapter 5 the writer explains that priests are chosen from men and need to be able to emphasize with the people so that they can make sacrifices for the sins of themselves and the people. Only because Jesus was fully human was, he qualified to fill this role.

The writer quotes psalm 2 and psalms 110 again in order to show that Jesus did not just take this position as high priest, but that God appointed him to it. While Jesus was in his flesh he prayed, knowing that God was the only source of power and salvation.

The writer also explains the path Christ took and the path we must take as well. Christ learned obedience through what he suffered. Christ did not need to suffer to correct any disobedience in him, but it was just like his temptation. It was to confirm his humanity and to fulfill all righteousness. Through his sufferings he proved to be the perfect sacrifice for all humanity and be able to stand in our place. In his sufferings he could now sympathize with our weakness, yet as he was perfected and sinless, he was able to take the wrath of God in out place and impute his righteousness to us. (Romans 3:24-26).

In his perfection he is able to be the source of salvation to all who obey him.

There is also included a warning about stagnation. As believers we are called to continually be going in our relationship to Christ. Our responsibility is to feast upon God’s word and grow in our understanding. It is very dangerous to be satisfied with just the basics. When we get fundamentals down and just stop learning it is very easy to be led astray by every new wind of teaching.

Chapter 5 Solidifies the end of chapter 4. Jesus as our great high priest. Not only can he save you from damnation, but he can also deal gently with you (vs 2).

The good news is our God can relate to us in every way. He is not some abstract concept that has no concern for his creation, rather he is a personal, relational, loving, empathizing Priest, who lives to make supplications for you.

When you are beset by your own weakness, Jesus is there. He is waiting for you to draw near. He is eager to comfort and help and strengthen you to be victorious.

Pastor Max Myers
Living Word Evangelical Free Church
Elmira, NY