What does Hebrews 4:15 mean?

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. Hebrews 4:15

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 4:15 from the King James Version of the Bible refers to Jesus Christ as the high priest who is empathetic towards human weaknesses. It suggests that Jesus, though divine, has experienced the full range of human trials and temptations, yet without succumbing to sin. This verse captures one of the core beliefs in Christian theology—that Jesus was both fully divine and fully human. The idea is that because Jesus went through human experiences and was tempted in every way that people are, he can understand and sympathize with human struggles. Yet the distinction is that unlike humans, he remained sinless throughout his earthly life.

Historical Context

Hebrews is a book in the New Testament that was written primarily to a Jewish Christian audience. Though the exact date and author remain unknown, it was likely composed before the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in AD 70. The book’s intent was to present Jesus as the perfect and ultimate high priest, superior to the Levitical priests of the Old Testament. This verse would have been particularly poignant for early Christians who were trying to understand how Jesus could be a mediator between God and humans.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, Hebrews 4:15 presents a few key insights:

• Incarnation: The verse is significant for the doctrine of the incarnation, which states that Jesus is God made flesh. It confirms that Jesus’ humanity is real and that he is truly like us in all things apart from sin.
• Empathy of Christ: It speaks to Jesus’ empathetic character, stressing that he is a high priest who truly understands the human experience.
• Sinlessness: This verse reinforces the belief in the sinless nature of Jesus, which is fundamental to the concept of the atonement—that through Jesus’ death, humanity’s sins could be forgiven because he himself was without sin.
• High Priesthood: The concept of Jesus as a high priest is crucial in Christian theology. Unlike the Old Testament priests who had to offer sacrifices for their own sins, Jesus is presented as the sinless high priest who offers himself as the perfect sacrifice.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Hebrews 4:15 can serve as a source of comfort and hope for believers. Understanding that they are not alone in their temptations, they have a high priest (Jesus) who empathizes with their weaknesses and can offer help in times of need. It also provides a model for human conduct, presenting Jesus as an example of how to resist temptation and live righteously.

Cross-References

• 1 Peter 2:22 – “Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:”
• 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.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:21 – “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key terms include:

• High priest (Greek: ἀρχιερέας, archiereus): Refers to the chief priest in religious practices, but here it signifies Jesus as the ultimate intermediary between God and people.
• Cannot be touched with the feeling (Greek: συμπαθέω, sympatheo): Meaning to sympathize or to be affected with the same feeling as another.
• Infirmities (Greek: ἀσθένεια, astheneia): Implies weaknesses or frailties, not just physical illness, but also moral weaknesses or temptations.
• Tempted (Greek: πειράζω, peirazo): To be tested or tried; here it refers to Jesus being subjected to the same tests of character and obedience that humans face.
• Without sin (Greek: χωρίς ἁμαρτίας, chorís hamartías): Indicates the complete absence of sin in Jesus.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions, various deities were often depicted with humanlike vulnerabilities and failings. The uniqueness of the Christian claim here is that Jesus, though fully experiencing humanity, including temptation, remained without moral failure. Many religious traditions have figures who intercede on behalf of humans, but the Christian assertion of Jesus stands out in that he both literally shared in human nature and is believed to be devoid of sin.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific inquiry generally does not intersect with the theological assertions present in this verse. The concepts of sin, temptation, and the divine nature of Christ are not within the purview of empirical science, as they deal with religious beliefs and faith. However, psychological studies on empathy and altruistic behavior could parallel discussions about Jesus’ ability to empathize with human weaknesses.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have expounded on Hebrews 4:15 extensively. Some suggest that the emphasis on Jesus’ empathy provides a strong foundation for pastoral care and counseling, asserting that spiritual leaders should emulate this aspect of Jesus. Others focus on the sinlessness of Christ, debating the implications it has for the nature of his sacrificial death and atonement. Overall, this verse is often highlighted for its pastoral significance and the assurance it offers believers in the face of temptation and suffering.