What does Hebrews 8:6 mean?

But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. Hebrews 8:6

Explanation

Hebrews 8:6 speaks to the superiority of Jesus Christ’s role as High Priest over the Levitical priests of the Old Covenant. The “more excellent ministry” refers to Jesus’ divine priesthood, which surpasses the earthly ministry performed by human priests in the Old Testament. The emphasis here is on the nature of the covenant Jesus mediates; it is “better” because it is founded on “better promises.” This suggests a comparison and a contrast between the Old and New Covenants: the New Covenant brought by Jesus offers a more perfect relationship with God that is not based on the sacrificial system of the Law, but rather on the once-and-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ himself.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of early Christians who were likely Jewish converts. These believers were familiar with the Old Testament and the Levitical priesthood, which was the mechanism for Israel’s atonement and worship under the Mosaic Law. During this time, they may have been facing persecution and were perhaps tempted to revert to Judaism. The author of Hebrews, whose identity remains unknown, emphasizes the finality and completion of Christ’s work as opposed to the repetitive and ultimately inadequate sacrifices of the old system.

Theological Insights

The verse is often discussed in relation to the concept of the New Covenant theology, which suggests that Jesus’s death and resurrection initiated a new relationship between God and humanity. From a Reformed theology standpoint, it might be seen as an expression of the doctrine of Sola Gratia, meaning grace alone, wherein salvation comes through Jesus’s work rather than human efforts. The Catholic perspective acknowledges the Old Covenant’s value but sees it as fulfilled and perfected in the New Covenant through Christ, resonating with the continuity and fulfillment theme of this verse.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages believers to invest their faith in the promises of the New Covenant, which are eternal and unchanging because of Christ’s complete atonement. It teaches that traditional or ritualistic practices do not earn salvation. For daily life, it can be reflected upon in the way Christians approach worship, ensuring that they focus on a relationship with God through Jesus rather than depending on repetitive religious rituals or works to secure their redemption.

Cross-References

• Jeremiah 31:31-34 – “Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:”
• Luke 22:20 – “Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.”
• 2 Corinthians 3:6 – “Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.”

Language Study

In the original Greek:

• “More excellent” (διαφορωτέρας, diaphorōteras): signifies something that is different to a greater degree, superior or better.
• “Ministry” (λειτουργίας, leitourgias): refers to service or office work, particularly of a priestly or religious nature.
• “Mediator” (μεσίτης, mesitēs): denotes an intermediary or a negotiator who bridges two parties, here referring to Christ as the one who bridges the gap between God and humanity.
• “Covenant” (διαθήκης, diathēkēs): implies a contract or agreement, often used to describe God’s promises and arrangements with humanity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of covenants is not exclusive to Christianity and Judaism; many ancient societies had gods who were believed to make agreements with their people. For instance, in ancient Mesopotamian religions, gods made pacts with rulers or individuals, often requiring rituals or obligations in return for blessings. However, the New Covenant differs notably in that it does not rely on mutual obligations; instead, it centers on God’s grace given through Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice, a concept unique to Christianity.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives typically do not directly intersect with matters of faith and covenants, as these are theological rather than empirical concepts. However, scientific studies of human behavior and psychology may provide insight into the impact of religious beliefs on human societies and individuals. In this sense, scientific perspectives could contribute to understanding the psychological and social effects of transitioning from a system of repeated rituals to embracing a faith centered on the belief in a final, all-sufficient sacrifice.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars emphasize different facets of Hebrews 8:6:

• John Calvin highlights the supremacy of Christ’s priesthood and the inadequacy of human priesthood to permanently atone for sin.
• Matthew Henry reflects on the transition from the shadows of the Old Covenant to the reality found in Christ under the New Covenant.
• The NIV Study Bible notes describe this covenant as founded on Christ’s eternal priesthood and complete sacrifice, contrasting with the temporal and insufficient nature of the Levitical priesthood.