What does Hebrews 2:13 mean?

And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. Hebrews 2:13

Explanation

Hebrews 2:13 is a verse that the author of Hebrews quotes from the Old Testament to make a point about the nature of Jesus Christ’s relationship with humanity. In this verse, the writer quotes from Isaiah 8:17-18 as a testament to Christ’s role in fully identifying with humans, not only as their savior but also as a brother in the family of God. The phrase “I will put my trust in him” indicates a deep reliance and faith in God, which is attributed to Jesus, showing even He placed His trust in the Father. The latter part, “Behold I and the children which God hath given me,” speaks to Jesus acknowledging the people who believe in Him as the children God gave Him – creating a sense of unity, fraternity, and divine stewardship.

Historical Context

Hebrews was written to a group of Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament and were experiencing hardships that were causing them to consider abandoning their Christian faith. The letter dates to approximately 64-70 A.D., a period with various challenges and persecutions for the early church. By referencing passages from the Old Testament, the author of Hebrews seeks to affirm the divinity of Jesus and His fulfillment of the ancient prophecies, thereby strengthening the resolve of these early believers by deepening their understanding of Christ’s mission.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, Hebrews 2:13 has been interpreted in several ways:

• Incarnational Theology: This verse emphasizes that Jesus was fully human and shared in the experiences, including trust in God.
• Christological Identity: Jesus is seen as the one who brings many children to glory and acts as their representative before God.
• Familial Imagery: It promotes the idea that believers are part of the family of God with Christ as their elder brother.
• Covenantal Fulfillment: The passage is also understood as a fulfillment of the Old Covenant promises with the establishment of the New Covenant through Jesus.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Hebrews 2:13 include:

• Faith in Adversity: Believers today can imitate Jesus by placing their trust in God through difficult circumstances.
• Unity of Believers: The verse encourages Christians to see themselves as part of a larger, spiritual family with Christ.
• Purpose in God’s Plan: It reminds individuals that they are not random or purposeless but are given by God to Christ as part of a divine plan.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 8:17-18: “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…”
• John 10:29: “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
• Romans 8:17: “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”

Language Study

• “Trust”: The Greek word for trust here is “πεποίθησις” (pepoithesis), indicating reliance or confidence.
• “Children”: In this context, “τέκνα” (tekna) does not merely mean offspring but implies a deeper, spiritual lineage.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Hebrews 2:13, in its reflection of the family unit, can be compared to other ancient cultural practices where familial lines and inheritance were deeply significant. In many ancient religions, the idea of gods having children was common (e.g., Zeus in Greek mythology), but the Christian understanding of this concept is unique in its emphasis on a spiritual family united by faith and love rather than just mythology or lineage.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology acknowledges the importance of trust in healthy human development and relationships. While Hebrews 2:13 is not referring to scientific trust, the principle of placing trust in a higher power or within a community can have positive psychological effects on individuals, such as increased resilience and a sense of belonging.

Commentaries

Various commentaries offer insights on Hebrews 2:13:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary: Suggests that Jesus Christ is not ashamed to call believers brethren, emphasizing the honor and humility of Christ.
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Notes that this verse demonstrates the solidarity of Christ with His people.
• John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible: Discusses the prophecies that are applied to Christ and how He takes on the seed of Abraham to deliver them.