Hebrews 10:9

Then He adds, "Here I am, I have come to do Your will." He takes away the first to establish the second.

Study Bible

Then He adds
This phrase introduces a continuation of a thought or statement, indicating that what follows is a further elaboration or addition to what has been previously mentioned. In the context of Hebrews, this is a reference to the words of Christ, emphasizing His role as the ultimate revelation and fulfillment of God's plan. The Greek word for "adds" (προστίθημι, prostithēmi) suggests an intentional and purposeful addition, underscoring the completeness and finality of Christ's mission.

‘Behold, I have come to do Your will.’
This declaration is central to understanding the mission of Jesus. The word "Behold" (ἰδού, idou) is an imperative that calls for attention, highlighting the significance of the statement. "I have come" (ἥκω, hēkō) indicates a deliberate arrival or presence, reflecting Jesus' incarnation and His active participation in God's redemptive plan. "To do Your will" (ποιῆσαι τὸ θέλημά σου, poiēsai to thelēma sou) reveals Jesus' submission and obedience to the Father, fulfilling the divine purpose. This echoes Psalm 40:7-8, showing the continuity of God's plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

He takes away the first
This phrase refers to the removal or setting aside of the old covenant, which was based on the law and sacrifices. The Greek word for "takes away" (ἀναιρέω, anaireō) implies a decisive action of removal or abolition. The "first" (πρῶτον, prōton) signifies the initial covenant, which was provisional and preparatory, pointing towards something greater. This action is not a rejection of the law but a fulfillment and completion of its purpose through Christ.

to establish the second
Here, the "second" (δεύτερον, deuteron) refers to the new covenant, established through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The word "establish" (στήκω, stēkō) conveys the idea of setting something firmly in place, indicating the permanence and superiority of the new covenant. This new covenant is characterized by grace, internal transformation, and direct access to God, fulfilling the promises of the prophets and providing a better hope for believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, who declares His purpose to fulfill God's will.

2. God the Father
The one whose will Jesus is committed to fulfilling.

3. Old Covenant
The first covenant, which included the law and sacrificial system given to Israel.

4. New Covenant
The second covenant, established through Jesus' sacrifice, offering a new way to relate to God.

5. Hebrews
The recipients of the letter, likely Jewish Christians familiar with the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Teaching Points

The Supremacy of Christ's Sacrifice
Jesus' sacrifice is superior to the old sacrificial system, as it fulfills God's ultimate will for redemption.

The Transition from Old to New Covenant
Understanding the shift from the law to grace is crucial for living in the freedom Christ provides.

Obedience to God's Will
Jesus exemplifies perfect obedience, which believers are called to emulate in their daily lives.

The Fulfillment of Prophecy
Recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies strengthens faith in God's sovereign plan.

Living Under the New Covenant
Embrace the new relationship with God through Christ, characterized by grace, forgiveness, and direct access to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant affect your daily walk with Christ?

2. In what ways can you emulate Jesus' obedience to God's will in your own life?

3. How does recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy strengthen your faith?

4. What are some practical ways to live under the grace of the New Covenant rather than the law?

5. How can you explain the significance of Jesus' sacrifice to someone unfamiliar with the concept of the Old and New Covenants?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 40:6-8
This Old Testament passage is quoted in Hebrews 10, showing Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecy about doing God's will.

Jeremiah 31:31-34
This prophecy speaks of a new covenant, which is fulfilled in Jesus, as mentioned in Hebrews 10.

Matthew 26:39
Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane reflects His commitment to doing the Father's will, even unto death.

Romans 8:3-4
Discusses how the law was powerless to save, but God did through Jesus, establishing the new covenant.

Galatians 3:24-25
Explains the purpose of the law as a tutor leading to Christ, who fulfills and supersedes it.