What does Hebrews 2:14 mean?

Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; Hebrews 2:14

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 2:14 addresses the Incarnation, a foundational Christian doctrine, which asserts that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, took on human flesh. The term “children” refers to humanity, who are characterized by their mortal nature – “flesh and blood.” The verse underlines that Christ shared in this same human nature. The purpose of His Incarnation and subsequent death was to defeat the devil—the one who had “the power of death.” This phrase suggests that the devil’s influence or authority over death is undermined through Christ’s death. The verse communicates that through His humanity and death, Jesus has the ability to free those who are subject to fear of death and spiritual bondage.

Historical Context

Hebrews is a New Testament epistle written to a Jewish Christian audience, likely before the destruction of the Jerusalem temple in A.D. 70. The author’s identity is unknown, but the purpose of the letter was to demonstrate the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ. It addresses the Jewish understanding of angels, sacrifices, priesthood, and covenants, articulating how Jesus fulfills and transcends these concepts. Hebrews 2:14 should be seen in a context where early Christians were trying to understand Jesus’ death and its implications for salvation and the spiritual battle against evil.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints give us varying understandings of this verse. From a Christological perspective, it affirms the true humanity of Jesus and thus, His qualification to be the perfect mediator and High Priest. In soteriology, the verse articulates the doctrine of atonement illustrating the victory of Christ over evil and death. Furthermore, in eschatology, the verse anticipates the ultimate defeat of Satan and the liberation of believers from the fear of death. In demonology, it demonstrates the limited power of Satan that is subject to the victory of Christ’s work on the cross.

Practical Applications

This verse provides comfort for believers, as it assures them that Jesus understands human struggles, having shared in the same and triumphed over death. It encourages a fearless life, one not dominated by the fear of death since it has been defeated. For those who struggle with spiritual warfare, it assures the presence and ultimate victory of Jesus over demonic powers. It also calls believers to walk in that victory with assurance and confidence.

Cross-References

• 1 John 3:8 – “He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.”
• Romans 8:3 – “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:”
• John 1:14 – “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 – “So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.”

Language Study

The key words in Hebrews 2:14 are “partakers” (κοινωνοί – koinonoi), meaning sharing in or having fellowship with, and “took part” (μετέσχεν – meteschen), implying participation or having a share in something. These terms emphasize the full participation of Christ in human nature. “Destroy” (καταργήσῃ – katargēsē) in Greek carries the meaning of nullify, abolish, or render powerless, explaining what Jesus did to the devil’s power over death.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In religious comparisons, the concept of gods or divine beings taking on human flesh can be found in various mythologies, such as Greek and Roman gods. However, unlike these myths where gods assume human form temporarily and often for less savory purposes, in Christianity, the Incarnation denotes a permanent taking on of humanity for the purpose of redemption. Furthermore, the destruction of evil by a deity or hero is a common theme, as seen in the stories of Horus or Mithras.

Scientific Perspectives

Hebrews 2:14 does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, as it speaks to supernatural and theological events outside the scope of empirical science. The concepts of life, death, and the metaphysical idea of “the power of death” are elements science may address in physiological terms but are here laden with spiritual meaning that transcends scientific methodology.

Commentaries

Commentaries by theologians and biblical scholars often highlight the christological significance of Hebrews 2:14. They point out that by becoming truly human, Jesus was able to represent humanity fully and provide a once-for-all sacrifice. Many also emphasize the comfort this offers to believers, asserting that they can approach life and death differently knowing that Christ has vanquished their greatest enemy, death, and its purveyor, the devil. There is also a consensus that this verse underlines the reality of spiritual warfare, attesting that Jesus has already secured victory over such forces through the cross.