Jesus Rescues Man. Warning to Give Heed. Hebrews 2:1-18

Transcription

1 1 Jesus Rescues Man Warning to Give Heed Hebrews 2:1-18

2 2 Jesus Rescues Man Warning to Give Heed Hebrews 2:1-18, 1. Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. 2. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; 3. How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4. God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? 5. For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. 6. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him? 7. Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: 8. Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. 9. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. 10. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. 11. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,

3 3 12. Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. 13. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. 14. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; 15. And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16. For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. 17. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. 18. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Introduction: I. Girdwood and Verkruyse wrote that chapter one of Hebrews presents Jesus as the great figure of redemption history, markedly superior to even angels while chapter two emphasizes that there is no escape for those who neglect their wondrous salvation made possible by Christ the Lord. II. The Old Covenant was ministered at Mt. Sinai through angels while the New Covenant was ministered from Mount Zion through God s only begotten Son. (Girdwood and Verkruyse) III. Jesus took upon himself the form of humanity, lower than the angels, that he might fully identify with mankind and redeem them after which he returned to God s right hand above the angels and would bring many sons to glory with him. (Girdwood and Verkruyse)

4 4 Commentary: Hebrews 2:1, Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. I. We Christians must, ought to pay more careful attention, give the more earnest heed to the things that were heard, to what we have heard, A. It is imperative, absolutely essential that we pay most careful attention to the gospel truth which was preached by inspired men. II. lest haply we should drift away from them, so that we do not drift away. A. It is altogether possible to drift away from the teachings of Christ. B. Coffman wrote that disciples drift because: (1) they are not anchored in Christ, (2) both subtle and powerful currents buffet them, (3) they do not give due diligence to maintain steadfastness, (4) some are preoccupied with other unimportant matters. C. Coffman also wrote that depth is a very appropriate word for the process of digression because it is usually a gradual process rather than a sudden cataclysmic departure from the faith. D. Girdwood and Verkruyse explain drift away as slip away, unaware as a ring lost from the finger, taking a wrong turn on a trip or a slip of the tongue.

5 5 Hebrews 2:2, For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; I. For, because if the message, word spoken by, through angels proved steadfast, was binding, A. The Law of Moses was certainly steadfast and firm. 1. Deuteronomy 33:2, And he said, The LORD came from Sinai, and rose up from Seir unto them; he shined forth from mount Paran, and he came with ten thousands of saints: from his right hand went a fiery law for them. 2. Galatians 3:19, Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. 3. Acts 7:53, Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. B. Violators of the Law of Moses were consistently punished. II. and every violation, transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward, its just punishment, A. The word just carries the idea of fair and righteous and correct remuneration as from a paymaster. B. Examples: 1. Saul: 1 Samuel 15:24-26, And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and

6 6 obeyed their voice. Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD. And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD hath rejected thee from being king over Israel. 2. Nadab and Abihu: Leviticus 10:1-3, And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD. Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace. Hebrews 2:3, How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; I. How shall we escape, A. The conclusion is that there is no way to escape if we neglect the salvation available through Christ. II. if we ignore, neglect so, such a great salvation? A. Romans 1:18, For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; B. Coffman observed that the word here is neglect and that it is not necessary to take up arms against God to reap the penalties of disobedience. C. The salvation provided by Christ is great in everyway, for greater than anything known previously.

7 7 D. Hebrews 10:26-31, For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. III. This salvation, which having at the first been announced, spoken by, through the Lord, A. John 6:68, Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. IV. was confirmed unto us by them, those that heard? A. John 14:26, But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Hebrews 2:4, God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? I. God also testified, bearing witness with them, A. God authenticated his message to mankind, Coffman noted, through signs, wonders and miracles.

8 8 II. both by signs and wonders, and by manifold powers, various miracles, A. Coffman gave the following as examples of these miracles in the Old Testament: 1. Moses miracles in Egypt. 2. Elijah s raising the widow s son. 3. Elisha s curing Naaman of his leprosy. B. New Testament miracles served a similar purpose. 1. John 3:2, The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 2. Acts 16:18, And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. 3. Acts 13:11, And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. 4. Acts 5:1-10, But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing

9 9 in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. III. and by gifts distributed by, of the Holy Spirit, A. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. B. Miracles, signs, wonders and gifts of the Holy Spirit did not replace preaching of the word, but rather drew attention to it. (Girdwood and Verkruyse) IV. according to his own will. A. Girdwood and Verkruyse defined: 1. Miracles as an unusual display of might.

10 10 2. Sign as an indicator pointing to something beyond itself. 3. Wonder as that which excites the imagination of those who watch. B. All of these things occurred as it pleased God. Hebrews 2:5-7, For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: I. He did not subject the world to come to angels, whereof, about which we speak. A. The world to come refers to the life after this, one which is reserved for the management of the redeemed, not angels. B. Christ elevated lowly mankind to heaven itself. II. One has somewhere testified, saying, A. Psalm 8:3-8, When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. B. David wrote this psalm.

11 11 C. One has somewhere testified was a way of saying that the readers were well acquainted with this passage, not that the writer had forgotten the reference. (Girdwood and Verkruyse) 1. 1 Corinthians 15:27, For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 2. Ephesians 1:22, And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, III. What is man that you are, thou art mindful of him? A. Coffman observed that man s physical insignificance is here contrasted with man s spiritual importance, so great that even God is mindful of him. IV. or the son of man that thou, you visitest him? care for him? A. What is man or the son of man is an example of a Jewish literary parallelism and both statements have comparable meanings. B. This is a technique found often in Scripture and emphasizes the points being made. V. Thou crownedest, you crowned him with glory and honor, A. Psalm 82:6, I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High. B. John 10:34-36, Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?

12 12 C. Christ was, following his resurrection, crowned with glory and honor. VI. And didst set him over the works of thy hands, A. In view of man s origin, his potential and God s blessings which have been bestowed upon him, how truly regrettable it is thou mankind has made such a mess of things and fallen to such depths of depravity. VII. You made him a little lower than the angels A. Christ was made a little lower than the angels for only a brief period at the time of his crucifixion when he was representative of and sacrifice for fallen mankind Corinthians 5:21, For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. B. Otherwise, angels were and are Christ s servants. 1. Matthew 26:53, Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? Hebrews 2:8, Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. I. Thou didn t put all things in subjection under his feet, and put everything under his feet. II. For in that he subjected all things unto him, A. The point is: Christ is superior to angels! III. he left nothing that is not subject to him.

13 13 IV. But now we see not yet all things subjected to him. Yet at present we do not see everything subject to him. A. Sin is everywhere. Man s potential for righteousness has certainly not been reached. B. Romans 5:12-21, Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. C. Revelation 3:21, To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. D. Revelation 22:4, 5, And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and

14 14 they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. Hebrews 2:9, But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. I. But we behold him, see him, who hath been made a little lower than the angels, even Jesus, A. In his sacrificial death, Jesus was identified with fallen mankind and, in this way briefly, was made a little lower than the angels. B. This is the first mention of the name Jesus in Hebrews. (Girdwood and Verkruyse) II. because of the suffering of death now crowned with glory and honor, A. Because of Christ s sacrificial death for all mankind, God the Father gave him a crown of glory and honor. B. Christ was crowned as winner following his ascension to glory, to the right hand of the Father. 1. Psalm 132:11, The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. 2. Isaiah 9:7, Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

15 15 3. Colossians 3:1, If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 4. Romans 8:34, Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 5. Philippians 2:9, Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: III. so that by the grace of God he should taste of death for every man. A. By God s grace Christ s death is available for the benefit of every man who will accept it. B. Scriptures: 1. 1 Corinthians 1:4, I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; 2. 1 Corinthians 15:10, But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me Corinthians 4:15, For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 4. Matthew 28:18-20, And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.

16 16 5. Matthew 10:22, 23, And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come. 6. Matthew 26:39-42, And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. Hebrews 2:10, For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. I. For it become him, it was fitting, II. For whom are all things, for whom and though whom everything exists, III. and though whom are all things IV. in bringing many sons unto glory A. John 12:32, And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. B. Genesis 6:5-7, And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. And

17 17 the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. C. Romans 3:10-20, As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes. Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. V. to make the author of their salvation pefect through suffering. A. Christ is the author, captain, pathfinder, pioneer of our salvation. (Coffman) B. Bruce via Coffman wrote, The perfect Son of God has become the people s perfect Saviour. C. To unbelieving Jews the crucifixion was convincing evidence that Jesus was not the Messiah. D. Hebrews shows that, the the contrary, the crucifixion was proof of Jesus Messiahship because he gave himself as the redemption sacrifice for all mankind, the means of our rescue from sin and death. E. Jesus is the maker, author of our salvation.

18 18 1. Acts 3:15, And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 2. Acts 5:31, Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 3. Hebrews 12:2, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 2:11, For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, I. For both he (Jesus) that makes men holy, sanctifieth and they that are made holy, sanctified are all of one; the same family A. Adam Clarke via Coffman wrote, The word (santifieth) does not merely signify one who sanctifies or makes holy, but one who makes atonement or reconciliation to God; and answers to the Hebrew word caphar, to expiate. 1. John 10:36-38, Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God? If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him. 2. Exodus 29:33-36, And they shall eat those things wherewith the atonement was made, to consecrate and to sanctify them: but a stranger shall not eat thereof, because they are holy. And if ought of the flesh of the consecrations, or of the bread, remain unto the morning, then thou shalt burn

19 19 the remainder with fire: it shall not be eaten, because it is holy. And thus shalt thou do unto Aaron, and to his sons, according to all things which I have commanded thee: seven days shalt thou consecrate them. And thou shalt offer every day a bullock for a sin offering for atonement: and thou shalt cleanse the altar, when thou hast made an atonement for it, and thou shalt anoint it, to sanctify it. 3. John 17:16-19, They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. B. He that sanctifies is he that makes the atonement; and they who are sanctified are they who received the atonement, and, being reconciled unto God, become his children, through adoption, by grace, Adam Clark via Coffman further wrote. C. Spiritually Jesus is the brother of the redeemed, all children of one Father, members of one family. II. for which cause he, Jesus, is not ashamed to call them brethren. A. Amazing beyond words is the fact that the sinless, perfect Saviour is not ashamed to call us sinful humans his brethren! 1. Mark 8:38, Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. B. How wretched is the person for whom Christ has made the ultimate sacrifice who dishonors by life or word the eternal Son of God!

20 20 Hebrews 2:12, Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. I. saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, A. Psalm 22:22, I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee. B. Matthew 12:49, 50, And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. C. Mark 3:34, 35, And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother. D. Isaiah 8:18, Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion. III. In the midst of the congregation will I sing thy praise. A. Congregation is translated from ekklesia from which comes our word church which, as Bruce through Coffman noted, refers to brethren, members of his church. Hebrews 2:13, And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. I. And again, I will put my trust in him. A. Isaiah 8:16-18, Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the LORD, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me are for signs and for

21 21 wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion. B. The Messiah was to be glorified in association with his spiritual children, his brethren, Coffman wrote. 1. Christ s death was not selfish, but was directed toward the good of all the world. 2. This made Christ s death all the more glorious! 3. Isaiah 53:10, Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 4. John 17:9, I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. II. And again, Behold, Here am I and the children whom God hath given me. Hebrews 2:14, Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; I. Since the children have, are sharers in flesh and blood, A. 2 Corinthians 5:1, For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. B. Ephesians 6:12, For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

22 22 C. 1 Corinthians 15:50, Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. II. he also himself in like manner partook of the same; shared in his humanity A. Christ came into the world in human form. 1. Jesus was truly, wholly God, but also truly, wholly man Timothy 3:16, And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory John 4:3, And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. III. so that through his death he might bring to naught, destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. A. By taking the form of humanity, dying and being resurrected, Christ defeated the devil who had (past tense) the power of death. B. The devil is real and is set on destroying us all! 1. Matthew 4:1, Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 2. John 8:44, Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

23 Peter 5:8, 9, Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 4. Job 1:19, And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee. 5. John 13:27, And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly Corinthians 11:14, And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 7. Jeremiah 1:9, 10, Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant. Hebrews 2:15, And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. I. And might free, deliver all them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage slavery by their fear of death. A. Death has been universally feared throughout human history. 1. Isaiah 25:7, 8, And he will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the vail that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces;

24 24 and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. 2. Billions are spent on medical services to postpone the coming of the grim reaper. B. Only by Christ, by his victory over death, hell and the grave, by means of his resurrection, can we have hope of life beyond the grave. 1. John 11:25, Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 2. 2 Timothy 1:10, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: 3. 1 Corinthians 15:55-57, O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 4. Hosea 13:14, I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: repentance shall be hid from mine eyes. Hebrews 2:16, For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. I. For surely not to angels doth he give life, helps it is not angels he helps A. The Greek text reads, For verily not of angels doth he take hold, but he taketh hold of the seeds of Abraham.

25 25 B. Christ elected to come, came to earth in human form, not in angelic form, to redeem mankind. C. The seed of Abraham are those who faithfully serve God through Christ. D. Christ came to earth to redeem humans, not angels. II. but he giveth help to the descendants, seed of Abraham. A. To the spiritual seed of Abraham, Christ gave help, hope of life beyond the grave. B. Galatians 3:6, 7, Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. C. Romans 10:11-12, For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. Hebrews 2:17, 18, Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. I. Wherefore it behooved him in every way, things to be made like unto his brethren A. Christ was truly man, took upon himself to be fully human as were his brethren. B. Coffman observed that behooved carries the idea of indebtedness.

26 26 1. Having choosen to help makind, Jesus became obligated to do what was necessary to discharge his responsibility to redeem mankind. 2. Deuteronomy 18:15, The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken; II. that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service, things pertaining to God, A. Many Jewish priests were not at all interested in right and the welfare of the people they were appointed to serve. B. 1 Samuel 2:12-17, Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD. And the priest's custom with the people was, that, when any man offered sacrifice, the priest's servant came, while the flesh was in seething, with a fleshhook of three teeth in his hand; And he struck it into the pan, or kettle, or caldron, or pot; all that the fleshhook brought up the priest took for himself. So they did in Shiloh unto all the Israelites that came thither. Also before they burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that sacrificed, Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have sodden flesh of thee, but raw. And if any man said unto him, Let them not fail to burn the fat presently, and then take as much as thy soul desireth; then he would answer him, Nay; but thou shalt give it me now: and if not, I will take it by force. Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD. C. In contrast with this Christ became a merciful and faithful high priest and offered the sacrifice that can redeem all mankind. D. This is the first time the words high priest are found in Hebrews.

27 27 III. to make atonement, expiration, sins of the people. A. 2 Corinthians 5:19, To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. B. Romans 3:25, Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; C. 1 John 2:2, And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. D. 1 John 4:10, Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. E. 1 John 2:2, And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. IV. For in that he himself hath suffered, being tempted, when he was tempted, A. tremendous temptation faced Jesus as crucifixion approached. B. Drops of sweat as if it had been great drops of blood indicated how great the temptation was to by-pass death. C. He could have called for more than twelve legions of angels to rescue him, but he didn t! (Matthew 26:53) V. he is able to help succor them that are being tempted. A. Hebrews 7:25, Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

28 28 B. Hebrews 4:15, For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Conclusion: I. Robert Milligan concludes chapter 2 with these reflections: A. God has provided a home for his children. B. The atonement made by Christ are extended to all. C. The plan of redemption through Christ was prompted by the love of God. D. The condescension of Christ to bring God s grace to mankind is unfathomable. 1. Romans 5:7,8, For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 2. He left his radiant throne on high, left the bright realms of bliss, and came to earth to bleed and die: was ever love like this? E. We must follow this loving Saviour where ever He lead us. F. How encouraging it is that our Saviour sympathsizes with us in all respects. II. Jesus is indeed our Merciful and Faithful high priest, our Redeemer and Friend.

29 29 Bibliography Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. The Gideons International, Copyright National Publishing Company. Holy Bible, American Standardized Version, Standard Edition Thomas Nelson and Sons, Camden, N.J. Holy Bible, New International Version. 1984, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan James Burton Coffman Commentaries. Hebrews, Abilene Christian University, Abilene, Texas. New Testament Commentaries, Hebrews. Robert Milligan, Gospel Advocate Company, Nashville, TN. The College Press NIV Commentary, Hebrews. Jim Girdwood and Peter Verkruyse, College Press Publishing Company, Joplin, Missouri.

30 30 Questions Hebrews 2: What is the main thrust of Hebrews 1? 2. What is the main thrust of Hebrews 2? 3. What have Christians heard to which we must give earnest head? Elaborate. 4. What can cause Christians to drift away from those things we have heard?

31 31 5. Give examples that show that the word spoken by angels was stedfast. What was this word spoken by angels? 6. How can we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? 7. What is the great salvation? Why is it so great? 8. How did God confirm the word first spoken by Christ? Define the principal terms of your answer. 9. What is meant by the phrase, the world to come?

32 What is man that God is mindful of him? 11. Whom did God crown with glory and honor? 12. Who was set over the works of God s hands? 13. Who was made a little lower than angels? Why was this done? 14. To whom did God subject all things? Have all things been subjected to him? If not, why not?

33 How did Christ taste of death for all mankind? How did this reveal the grace of God? 16. How did the views of unbelieving Jews and the book of Hebrews differ regarding the crucifixion? 17. In what way can it be said that the perfect, eternal Son of God was made perfect through suffering? 18. Explain how men are sanctified, made holy. 19. In what way are disciples and the Son of God brethren, members of the same family? Why is Jesus not ashamed of people like us?

34 How did Christ s becoming flesh and blood lead to the devil s defeat? 21. Has Christ removed all your fear of death? Why or why not? 22. Who are the seed of Abraham to whom Christ gives help? 23. How does Christ s High Priesthood compare/contrast with the Jewish High Priesthood?

35 Define and contrast atonement, expiation, propitiation. 25. List Robert Milligan s reflections on Hebrews 2.

36 36

37 37.