What does Hebrews 2:18 mean?

For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Hebrews 2:18

Explanation

Hebrews 2:18 highlights the empathy and capability of Jesus to come to the aid of those who are facing temptations because he himself has gone through similar experiences. In its literal sense, the verse underscores that Jesus, having lived a human life, deeply understands the struggles of temptation, and because of his own experiences, he is uniquely qualified to provide support and assistance to individuals who are undergoing temptations.

The deeper meaning of this verse reveals an aspect of the nature of Jesus that is both comforting and empowering. It suggests that Jesus is not a distant and detached figure, but rather one who is intimately acquainted with human frailty and challenges. The reference to his suffering under temptation implies that he is compassionate—a high priest who can relate to human weaknesses, thereby providing hope that believers are not alone or without help when they face their own trials.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews is thought to have been written in the first century AD, primarily to a Jewish-Christian audience who were familiar with the Old Testament. During this period, believers faced persecution and hardships that tested their faith. The temptation to revert to their old beliefs or ways of life would have been strong. In this context, Hebrews 2:18 reassured its readers that Jesus, whom they followed, was both familiar with suffering and temptation and thus could offer them needed support.

This epistle is written to emphasize the supremacy of Christ as both divine and human, showcasing his role as the Great High Priest who bridges the gap between God and humanity. The cultural influence of Jewish tradition is evident in the picture of a high priest, an intermediary figure essential for representing the people and performing necessary sacrifices for atonement.

Theological Insights

In Christian theology, there are several viewpoints that can be derived from Hebrews 2:18:

1. Incarnational Theology: This verse speaks to the idea that Jesus, through his incarnation, fully participated in human nature. Consequently, he comprehends human struggle from the inside, which is critical for the salvific mission that Christians attribute to him.

2. Christus Victor: The verse can be interpreted from the Christus Victor perspective, where Christ is seen as the victor over the forces of evil. His suffering under temptation reveals that he overcame these trials, offering succor from a position of victory.

3. The High Priest Concept: From a Biblical theology standpoint, the illustration of Jesus as a High Priest is crucial. His ability to empathize with those who are tempted aligns with the high priest’s role in the Old Testament—serving as a compassionate mediator between God and the Israelites.

Practical Applications

Hebrews 2:18 can be applied in several practical ways:

1. Empathy: The example set by Jesus encourages individuals to develop empathy towards those who struggle, understanding their situation instead of judging them.

2. Seeking Aid in Temptation: Believers can take comfort and courage in seeking divine assistance when they encounter temptations, understanding that Jesus is an accessible source of strength.

3. Modeling Resilience: Jesus’ example of enduring and resisting temptation provides a model for resilience that followers can emulate in their own lives.

Cross-References

1. Hebrews 4:15 – “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
2. 1 Corinthians 10:13 – “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
3. James 1:12-14 – “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life…”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek of this verse are important for understanding its meaning:

• “Suffered” (pathon): This word connotes an experience or having undergone something, often with an undertone of enduring hardship or pain.
• “Being tempted” (peirastheis): Refers to being tested or tried, implying a trial of fidelity, integrity, virtue, or constancy.
• “Able” (dynatai): Suggests a capability or potential, along with a sense of power or capacity.
• “To succour” (boēthein): To come to the aid of or provide help for someone in a timely or urgent manner.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Other ancient myths often depict gods and heroes facing various forms of temptation or trials. For example, in Greek mythology, Heracles (Hercules) endured numerous labors that tested his strength and resolve. In comparison, Hebrews 2:18 presents Jesus not as a distant deity but as a participatory figure who directly understands human experience.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the understanding of empathy and the social support described in Hebrews 2:18 can be correlated with research suggesting that empathy and social bonding are vital to the emotional and psychological well-being of humans.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Hebrews 2:18 offer a range of insights:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary: Emphasizes Jesus’ humanity in his sympathies with our temptations and his consequent fitness to rescue or deliver us.

• The Pulpit Commentary: Notes that Jesus’ ability to “succour” originates from his own experience of temptation, suggesting a direct knowledge of what it means to suffer under such conditions.

• Barnes’ Notes on the Bible: Provides insight into the nature of the temptations that Jesus faced, affirming that they were not superficial but involved real suffering.