Hebrews 5

Hebrews 5 discusses the role and qualifications of the high priest in Judaism, particularly focusing on Christ as the ultimate High Priest. This chapter draws parallels between the earthly priesthood and Jesus’ divine appointment, emphasizing His perfection and compassion in His priestly duties.

Hebrews 5:1-2 (NKJV)
For every high priest taken from among men is appointed for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins. He can have compassion on those who are ignorant and going astray, since he himself is also subject to weakness.

The role of a high priest is essential for mediating between God and humanity, primarily involving offering gifts and sacrifices for sins. The high priest must be empathetic, recognizing his own weaknesses and those of the people he serves. This human aspect of the priesthood highlights the necessity for a compassionate mediator who understands human frailty.

Hebrews 5:3 (NKJV)
Because of this he is required as for the people, so also for himself, to offer sacrifices for sins.

This verse underscores the high priest's dual role in making sacrifices—for the people and for himself. This requirement stresses the high priest’s shared humanity with the people, highlighting his own need for atonement, which fosters a humble and empathetic approach to his sacred duties.

Hebrews 5:4-6 (NKJV)
And no man takes this honor to himself, but he who is called by God, just as Aaron was. So also Christ did not glorify Himself to become High Priest, but it was He who said to Him: “You are My Son, Today I have begotten You.” As He also says in another place: “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.”

The high priest’s role is not self-appointed but is a divine calling, exemplified by Aaron’s original appointment. Similarly, Christ did not assume His role by self-promotion but was appointed by God, evidenced by scriptural affirmations of His eternal priesthood in the order of Melchizedek, which surpasses the temporal and hereditary Aaronic priesthood.

Hebrews 5:7 (NKJV)
Who, in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to Him who was able to save Him from death, and was heard because of His godly fear,

This verse describes Jesus’ profound humanity and piety, particularly during His earthly ministry. His fervent prayers and cries, marked by deep emotional agony, exemplify His reliance on God. His prayers were heard, reflecting His reverent submission and godly fear, aligning Him with those He came to save.

Hebrews 5:8-10 (NKJV)
Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him, called by God as High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek.

Despite being the Son of God, Jesus experienced a learning process through suffering, which was essential for His role as the High Priest. This suffering perfected Him, enabling Him to offer eternal salvation to those who obey Him. His appointment as a priest in the order of Melchizedek signifies a priesthood superior to the traditional Levitical order, emphasizing eternal and universal aspects of His mediation.

Hebrews 5:11-14 (NKJV)
Of whom we have much to say, and hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

The writer laments the spiritual immaturity of the audience, which hinders deeper theological discussions. This immaturity necessitates a return to foundational teachings rather than progressing to more complex doctrines ("solid food"). This analogy criticizes the lack of development in spiritual understanding and encourages growth that enhances discernment and deeper comprehension of righteousness.