◄ Hebrews 5 ►
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The Perfect High Priest (Psalm 110:1–7) 1Every high priest is appointed from among men to represent them in matters relating to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and misguided, since he himself is subject to weakness. 3That is why he is obligated to offer sacrifices for his own sins, as well as for the sins of the people. 4No one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by God, just as Aaron was. 5So also Christ did not take upon Himself the glory of becoming a high priest, but He was called by the One who said to Him: “You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.”a 6And in another passage God says: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.”b 7During the days of Jesus’ earthly life, He offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence. 8Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from what He suffered. 9And having been made perfect, He became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him 10and was designated by God as high priest in the order of Melchizedek. Milk and Solid Food (1 Corinthians 3:1–9) 11We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain, because you are dull of hearing. 12Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to reteach you the basic principles of God’s word.c You need milk, not solid food! 13For everyone who lives on milk is still an infant, inexperienced in the message of righteousness. 14But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil. Footnotes: 5 a Psalm 2:7; literally today I have begotten You 6 b Psalm 110:4 12 c Or of the oracles of God Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Hebrews 5 Summary The Perfect High Priest Verses 1–4 – The Human High Priest: Appointment and Compassion Earthly high priests were taken from among the Israelites, appointed to represent the people before God, offering gifts and sacrifices for sins. Because they were subject to weakness, they could deal gently with the ignorant and misguided. Their own frailty required them to present sacrifices for themselves as well as for the people, and no one claimed the honor on his own; God called each one, just as He called Aaron. Verses 5–6 – Christ’s Divine Appointment after Melchizedek Likewise, Christ did not seize the priestly honor for Himself. The Father declared, “You are My Son; today I have become Your Father,” and again, “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.” Jesus’ priesthood is therefore God-given, royal, and everlasting. Verses 7–8 – Christ’s Obedience through Suffering In the days of His flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence. Although He was the Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered, displaying perfect submission. Verses 9–10 – Eternal Salvation through the Perfect Priest Having been made perfect, Jesus became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him, being proclaimed by God as High Priest in the order of Melchizedek. Verses 11–14 – Call to Maturity and Discernment The writer wishes to speak further on Melchizedek but finds the audience sluggish in hearing. By now they should be teachers, yet they need “milk,” the basics, rather than “solid food,” deeper truths. Solid food is for the mature, whose senses are trained by practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5 delves into the qualifications and functions of high priests, including the divine appointment of Jesus as our eternal High Priest. The chapter beautifully juxtaposes the weakness of human high priests with the perfection and unique position of Jesus, comparing Him to Melchizedek, a figure of mysterious and revered significance in the Old Testament. It also implores Christians to mature in their spiritual knowledge and understanding. Historical Background of the High Priesthood • Exodus 28–29 and Leviticus 8–9 lay out the consecration of Aaron and his sons. Their garments, breastplate, and mitre symbolized representation of the twelve tribes and holiness before God. • Annually, on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16), the high priest entered the Holy of Holies with blood for his own sins and for the people. Hebrews 5:3 alludes to this necessity. • First-century Jews knew the high priest as the most visible religious leader. Josephus confirms that the office was both spiritual and political, often appointed by Rome in Jesus’ day. This backdrop heightens the contrast to Christ’s divine appointment. Melchizedek in Scripture and Second-Temple Sources • Genesis 14:18-20 introduces Melchizedek as “king of Salem” and “priest of God Most High,” who blesses Abram and receives a tithe. • Psalm 110:4, written centuries later, promises a coming ruler-priest forever “in the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 5:6 ties Jesus to this prophecy. • Scroll 11QMelch from Qumran pictures Melchizedek as a heavenly deliverer who proclaims liberty in the Jubilee year. Although not inspired Scripture, it shows that Jewish readers already linked Melchizedek with an end-time figure—preparing them to grasp his fulfillment in Jesus. Jesus’ Prayers and Loud Cries – First-Century Context Hebrews 5:7: “During the days of His flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence.” • Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-44; Luke 22:41-44) is the clearest biblical scene. Archaeologists have located ancient olive presses on the Mount of Olives, underscoring the “place of the press” where Jesus’ agony occurred. • Loud, emotional prayer matched Jewish custom; the Psalms are full of cries (Psalm 22; 88). The writer affirms that such raw honesty is welcomed by God. • “He was heard” does not mean He escaped death but that He was resurrected (Acts 2:24). Learning Obedience through Suffering • Hebrews 5:8 does not imply previous disobedience. Like a son apprenticed to his father, Jesus moved from untested obedience to proven obedience. • Philippians 2:8 parallels this: “He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross.” • The pattern—suffering first, glory after—strengthens persecuted believers (1 Peter 4:13). Fulfillment of the Priesthood in Jesus 1. Appointment: God’s direct declaration (Hebrews 5:5; Psalm 2:7). 2. Qualification: True humanity enables sympathy (Hebrews 4:15; 5:1-2). 3. Sacrifice: He offers Himself, not animals (Hebrews 9:12). 4. Permanence: “Forever” (Hebrews 5:6; 7:24). 5. Access granted: Believers draw near with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). Milk and Solid Food – Rabbinic Teaching Methods • Rabbis called beginners “infants” given “milk” (basic Torah). Advanced students chewed “meat.” The writer taps this image (Hebrews 5:12-14). • Paul uses similar language in 1 Corinthians 3:1-3; Peter in 1 Peter 2:2. • Practicing discernment requires constant exposure to Scripture and obedience—“training” in verse 14 shares the root of gymnasium, picturing athletic discipline. Archaeological Notes on First-Century Learning • Stone inkwells and scribal benches from Galilee’s synagogues show that ordinary Jews could study. The audience of Hebrews likely met in house-church settings yet had access to scrolls and teaching. • The discovery of partial Greek Septuagint scrolls in Egypt indicates that diaspora Jews, like the probable recipients of Hebrews, were comfortable with Scripture in Greek—the language of this epistle. Practical Implications for Believers • Because Jesus is the perfect, sympathetic High Priest, believers can bring every weakness to Him (Hebrews 4:16-5:2). • Suffering is not a detour but often the classroom for deeper obedience (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4). • Spiritual maturity is a responsibility. By now, many should be “teachers” (Hebrews 5:12). Regular study, obedience, and sharing truth move us from milk to solid food. • Discernment—distinguishing good from evil (verse 14)—is vital in a culture of mixed messages (Philippians 1:9-10). Connections to Other Scriptures • Priesthood shadow → reality: Exodus 28; Leviticus 16 → Hebrews 9-10 • Sonship declarations: Psalm 2:7 → Matthew 3:17 → Hebrews 1:5; 5:5 • Eternal salvation source: Isaiah 45:17 “a salvation everlasting” → fulfilled in Christ (Hebrews 5:9) • Call to hear: Isaiah 55:3 “Incline your ear” → Hebrews 5:11’s warning against dullness. Key Takeaways • Jesus’ priesthood is God-appointed, compassionate, eternal, and effectual. • His suffering is integral to His ministry and an example for ours. • Growth in understanding is expected; staying on milk is not an option. “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16), and Hebrews 5 adds its breath to call every believer toward deeper trust, obedient endurance, and mature discernment in Christ. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 110:4 The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind: 'You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.' Philippians 2:8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross. 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation. Teaching Points The Role of the High Priest Hebrews 5:1-4 outlines the qualifications and duties of a high priest, emphasizing that he is chosen from among men to represent them in matters related to God. Every high priest is appointed from among men to represent them in matters relating to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins (Hebrews 5:1). Christ's Unique Priesthood Unlike the earthly priests, Jesus did not glorify Himself to become a High Priest. Instead, He was appointed by God, as stated in Hebrews 5:5-6: So also Christ did not take upon Himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But He was called by the One who said to Him: 'You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.' The Order of Melchizedek Jesus is a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek, a mysterious figure who prefigures Christ's eternal priesthood. This signifies a priesthood that is not based on ancestry but on the power of an indestructible life (Hebrews 5:6). Jesus' Humanity and Suffering Hebrews 5:7-8 highlights Jesus' humanity and His obedience through suffering. During the days of Jesus’ earthly life, He offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence. Source of Eternal Salvation Jesus, having been made perfect through suffering, became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him (Hebrews 5:9). Call to Spiritual Maturity The chapter concludes with a call to move beyond elementary teachings and grow in spiritual maturity, as the audience is rebuked for their spiritual immaturity (Hebrews 5:11-14). Practical Applications Embrace Jesus as Your High Priest Recognize and rely on Jesus as your eternal High Priest who intercedes for you before God. Follow Christ's Example of Obedience In times of suffering, look to Jesus' example of obedience and trust in God's will. Pursue Spiritual Growth Commit to growing in your understanding of God's Word and moving beyond the basics of the faith. Seek God's Strength in Prayer Like Jesus, approach God with reverence and earnest prayer, trusting in His power to save. People 1. High Priest The high priest is a central figure in Hebrews 5, described as one who is appointed to act on behalf of people in matters related to God, offering gifts and sacrifices for sins (Hebrews 5:1). The role of the high priest is rooted in the Levitical priesthood, as outlined in the Old Testament. 2. Aaron Aaron is mentioned as an example of a high priest who was called by God (Hebrews 5:4). Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first high priest of Israel, and his priesthood is foundational to the understanding of the priestly role in the Jewish tradition. 3. Christ Christ is identified as the ultimate high priest, appointed by God, not by human lineage (Hebrews 5:5-6). The passage emphasizes that Christ did not glorify Himself to become a high priest but was appointed by God, referencing Psalm 2:7 and Psalm 110:4 to highlight His divine appointment and eternal priesthood in the order of Melchizedek. 4. Melchizedek Melchizedek is mentioned as a type of Christ's priesthood (Hebrews 5:6, 10). He is a mysterious figure from Genesis 14:18, known as the king of Salem and priest of God Most High. The order of Melchizedek signifies a priesthood that is eternal and not based on hereditary succession, contrasting with the Levitical priesthood. Places Hebrews 5 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. Instead, it focuses on the role and qualifications of the high priest, particularly in relation to Jesus Christ. The chapter discusses themes such as priesthood, sacrifice, and spiritual maturity. Since there are no specific places mentioned in Hebrews 5, a numbered list of places is not applicable. If you have any other questions or need further information on the chapter's themes or content, feel free to ask! Events 1. Appointment of High Priests The chapter begins by explaining that every high priest is appointed from among men to represent them in matters related to God. They offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. This role is divinely appointed, emphasizing the importance of the priesthood in mediating between God and humanity. The Greek term "ἀρχιερεύς" (archiereus) is used for "high priest," highlighting the authoritative and sacred nature of this position. 2. Human Weakness of High Priests High priests are able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and going astray, since they themselves are subject to weakness. This acknowledgment of human frailty underscores the need for compassion and understanding in spiritual leadership. 3. Offering Sacrifices for Sins High priests must offer sacrifices for their own sins as well as for the sins of the people. This requirement points to the imperfection of human priests and the necessity of atonement, as seen in the Greek word "προσφέρειν" (prospherein), meaning "to offer." 4. Divine Calling of High Priests No one takes the honor of being a high priest upon themselves; they must be called by God, just as Aaron was. This divine calling is crucial, as it ensures that the priesthood is not a matter of personal ambition but of divine selection. 5. Christ as High Priest Christ did not glorify Himself to become a high priest; instead, He was appointed by God, who declared Him His Son. This event is significant as it establishes Jesus' divine authority and unique role as the ultimate high priest, fulfilling the prophecy and promise of a new covenant. 6. Christ's Earthly Life and Prayers During His earthly life, Jesus offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death. His reverent submission is highlighted, showing His deep connection with the Father and His human experience of suffering. 7. Learning Obedience through Suffering Although Jesus was the Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered. This event emphasizes the perfection of Christ's obedience and His qualification to be the source of eternal salvation. 8. Christ as the Source of Eternal Salvation Having been made perfect, Jesus became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him. This statement underscores the completeness and sufficiency of Christ's redemptive work. 9. Designation as High Priest in the Order of Melchizedek Jesus is designated by God as a high priest in the order of Melchizedek. This reference to Melchizedek, a mysterious and ancient priest-king, highlights the eternal and unique nature of Christ's priesthood, distinct from the Levitical order. Lessons from Hebrews 5 1. The Role of the High Priest In Hebrews 5, we are reminded of the unique role of the high priest, who is chosen to act on behalf of people in relation to God. This role is a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate priesthood. As it says, "Every high priest is appointed from among men to represent them in matters relating to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins" (Hebrews 5:1). This highlights the importance of intercession and the need for a mediator, which Christ fulfills perfectly. 2. Compassion for the Ignorant and Wayward The high priest is called to deal gently with those who are ignorant and going astray, as he himself is subject to weakness. This teaches us the value of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others. "He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and misguided, since he himself is beset by weakness" (Hebrews 5:2). We are encouraged to extend grace and patience, just as we have received it. 3. The Necessity of Sacrifice Sacrifice is central to the role of the high priest, who offers sacrifices for his own sins and for the sins of the people. This points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who offered Himself once for all. "And for this reason he is obligated to offer sacrifices for his own sins, as well as for the sins of the people" (Hebrews 5:3). It reminds us of the cost of sin and the depth of Christ's love. 4. Divine Appointment No one takes the honor of being a high priest upon themselves; it is a calling from God. "No one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by God, just as Aaron was" (Hebrews 5:4). This underscores the importance of divine calling and purpose in our lives, encouraging us to seek God's will in all we do. 5. Christ's Eternal Priesthood Christ did not glorify Himself to become a high priest; it was God who appointed Him. "So also Christ did not take upon Himself the glory of becoming a high priest, but He was called by the One who said to Him, 'You are My Son; today I have become Your Father'" (Hebrews 5:5). This affirms Christ's divine authority and His eternal priesthood, offering us assurance of His intercession. 6. Learning Through Suffering Even Christ, though He was the Son, learned obedience through suffering. "Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from what He suffered" (Hebrews 5:8). This teaches us that suffering can be a tool for growth and obedience, shaping us into the likeness of Christ. 7. The Source of Eternal Salvation Christ's obedience and sacrifice made Him the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him. "And having been made perfect, He became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him" (Hebrews 5:9). This is a powerful reminder of the hope and assurance we have in Christ, urging us to live in obedience to His word. 8. The Call to Maturity The chapter challenges us to move beyond elementary teachings and grow in spiritual maturity. "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to reteach you the basic principles of God’s word" (Hebrews 5:12). This encourages us to deepen our understanding and application of Scripture in our lives. 9. Discernment Through Practice Mature believers are those who have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil" (Hebrews 5:14). This highlights the importance of consistent practice and application of God's word in developing discernment. 10. The Invitation to Growth Hebrews 5 invites us to embrace growth and maturity in our faith journey. It challenges us to move beyond the basics and strive for a deeper relationship with God. This chapter is a call to action, encouraging us to pursue spiritual maturity with diligence and dedication, knowing that our efforts are grounded in the eternal truth of Scripture. Topics 1. The Role of the High Priest (Hebrews 5:1-4) This section discusses the qualifications and duties of a high priest, who is appointed to act on behalf of people in matters related to God. The high priest offers gifts and sacrifices for sins and is able to deal gently with the ignorant and wayward because he himself is subject to weakness. The passage emphasizes that no one takes this honor upon himself, but he is called by God, just as Aaron was. 2. Christ as High Priest (Hebrews 5:5-6) Here, the text explains that Christ did not glorify Himself to become a high priest but was appointed by God. The author quotes Psalm 2:7, "You are My Son; today I have become Your Father," and Psalm 110:4, "You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek," to establish Christ's divine appointment and eternal priesthood. 3. The Suffering and Obedience of Christ (Hebrews 5:7-8) This passage highlights the humanity of Christ, who, during His earthly life, offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death. Although He was a Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered. The Greek term for "learned" (μανθάνω, manthano) indicates experiential learning, emphasizing Christ's full participation in human experience. 4. Christ as the Source of Eternal Salvation (Hebrews 5:9-10) Having been made perfect, Christ became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him. He was designated by God as a high priest in the order of Melchizedek. The term "perfect" (τελειόω, teleioo) in Greek suggests completeness or fulfillment of purpose, indicating that Christ's work was fully accomplished. 5. Warning Against Spiritual Immaturity (Hebrews 5:11-14) The author expresses concern about the readers' spiritual immaturity, stating that they have become "dull of hearing" and need to be taught the basic principles of God's word again. They are compared to infants needing milk rather than solid food. The passage encourages growth in discernment and maturity, urging believers to train their senses to distinguish good from evil. Themes 1. The High Priesthood of Christ Hebrews 5:1-4 discusses the role of the high priest, emphasizing that every high priest is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God. The passage highlights that Christ, like the high priests, was appointed by God. The Greek term "archiereus" (ἀρχιερεύς) is used for "high priest," underscoring the authoritative and mediatory role Christ fulfills. 2. Christ's Divine Appointment In Hebrews 5:5-6, it is noted that Christ did not glorify Himself to become a high priest but was appointed by God, quoting Psalm 2:7 and Psalm 110:4. The theme here is the divine calling and appointment of Christ, emphasizing His legitimacy and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. 3. Christ's Humanity and Suffering Hebrews 5:7-8 describes Jesus' prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears, highlighting His humanity and obedience through suffering. The Greek word "pathēma" (πάθημα) for "suffering" indicates the experiential aspect of Christ's earthly life, emphasizing His empathy and understanding of human struggles. 4. Perfection through Obedience Hebrews 5:9 states that Christ was made perfect and became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him. The Greek term "teleioō" (τελειόω) for "made perfect" suggests completion or fulfillment, indicating that through His obedience, Christ fully accomplished the work necessary for salvation. 5. The Call to Spiritual Maturity Hebrews 5:11-14 addresses the readers' need for spiritual growth, criticizing their immaturity and urging them to move beyond elementary teachings. The passage uses the metaphor of milk and solid food to illustrate the need for deeper understanding and discernment, encouraging believers to mature in their faith. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Jesus' Priesthood Thank God for providing Jesus as our eternal High Priest who intercedes on our behalf. Strength to Obey Pray for the strength and willingness to follow Jesus' example of obedience, even in difficult times. Desire for Spiritual Growth Ask God to instill in you a deep desire to grow in your faith and understanding of His Word. Reverence in Prayer Seek a heart of reverence and earnestness in your prayer life, trusting in God's power and will. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Hebrews 5:5, where is the historical evidence for God directly declaring Jesus as priest in a manner consistent with Israel’s established priesthood? 2. In Hebrews 5:6, what archaeological or historical records exist to verify the mysterious priesthood of Melchizedek beyond biblical references? 3. How can an omniscient Son of God “learn obedience” (Hebrews 5:8) if he is already fully divine and perfect? 4. In Hebrews 5:9, how does Jesus “become” the source of eternal salvation if he was supposedly always the sinless savior? 5. Why does Hebrews 5 present a priestly order that seems to conflict with other biblical texts focusing on the Levitical priesthood as the sole legitimate system? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What are the key roles of a high priest as outlined in Hebrews 5:1-4? 2. How does the human frailty of high priests help them deal with the ignorant and misguided? 3. How does the appointment of high priests correlate with Jesus’ designation as a high priest? 4. In what ways does Jesus’ high priesthood differ from Aaron's? 5. How does Jesus' experience with suffering and obedience relate to His role as a high priest? 6. What is the significance of Jesus being in the order of Melchizedek? 7. How does Jesus becoming "the source of eternal salvation" influence your faith? 8. What does the author mean by spiritual "milk" and "solid food"? 9. How can you identify spiritual immaturity in your own faith journey? 10. What steps can you take to achieve greater spiritual maturity and understanding? 11. How can understanding Jesus as our High Priest impact our daily actions and decisions? 12. In the context of your life, what does it mean to 'learn obedience through suffering'? 13. How can the church help believers transition from spiritual "milk" to "solid food"? 14. How does the comparison of Jesus to Melchizedek affect your view of the Old Testament? 15. In the face of moral dilemmas, how can we utilize 'solid food' to discern good from evil? 16. Why is it important to have a High Priest who can sympathize with our weaknesses? 17. How can this chapter's call to spiritual maturity influence our interaction with others? 18. In the present world, how can we model the gentle treatment shown by the high priest towards those who are ignorant and misguided? 19. How can we mirror Jesus' obedience in our daily lives, especially during trials? 20. In what ways can our understanding of Jesus' role as a High Priest inform our prayers and our relationship with God? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions