For NIV reading click here
A few observations:
NIV does not translate the first word ("for") which shows the connection between 5:1-10 and the end of chapter 4.
The author begins to fill out the role of Jesus' as High Priest, especially in terms of His compassionate, sympathetic, and completely effective treatment for our sin.
The sin dealth with here is most all sin except intentional sin (OT sin done with a 'high hand') - that is, those who choose sin knowing it is sin and wanting to make that choice, are not covered! That's a scary thought. The Bible has more to say about this, but here, the sin that is mentioned is sin out of ignorance and wayward sin.
Jesus was High Priest according to God's appointment.
The emphasis is on the relationship between Jesus as Son and High Priest.
I'm interested in thoughts about v. 7 and vv. 8-10. These verses have led to lots of debate. I have some thoughts on them.
The whole passage points to the eternal effectiveness of Jesus as our High Priest who has made merciful provision for our sin even though it cost Him His own suffering. Thank you, Jesus.
Also, here's a link (NET Bible) to a very helpful online version of the Bible with translator's notes, parallel versions, Greek lexicon, etc. I find it pretty helpful. It's called the NET Bible (can also be purchased as a hard copy).
8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered
ReplyDeleteI've heard many, many people ask, "why does GOD do such and such," or, "GOD would never do that...HE only does good, nice, pleasant things." That's crap. Do not be surprised at your suffering. It is there for a purpose; namely for your sanctification and/or growth in CHRIST, as well as those that you are closely involved with (like your wife, kids, parents, etc.).
I agree Andy. I can't say I always like it...though I do pray that I would consider it joy, as James tells me; in fact 'pure joy' and to consider it this way 'whenever' I face trials of various kinds that mean some suffering. And, I'm with you on the 'pleasant' God thing too. God is not a house pet to curl up on our lap. God is untamed, boundlessly powerful, acts in judgment, and sets fire in order to purify. So, I'm glad Jesus knows what it is to suffer.
ReplyDeleteFinal thoughts on vv. 8-9 which are often hotly debated. Did Jesus really have to 'learn?' What did He learn? Was He not already obedient to His Father? I think what the author is getting at here, is that what Jesus already had divine insight into, he learned as a human experience, especially in terms of suffering. What Jesus learned that was new, was the kind of obedience which is from things suffered as a human. And that is what the author is saying makes Jesus the final and great High Priest who shows compassion toward us and offers eternal salvation.
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