What does Hebrews 3:1 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 3:1 is an exhortation to believers, calling them to reflect upon the high standing of Jesus Christ in his roles as Apostle and High Priest in their faith community.

The verse starts with "Wherefore," which ties it back to the previous discussion in Hebrews about Jesus being greater than the angels and being the Son through whom God has spoken in these last days.

The term "holy brethren" addresses the audience as a family united in holiness and spiritual kinship. They are called "partakers of the heavenly calling," indicating that they share a divine vocation and destiny that originates from heaven.

The word "consider" is a plea for the readers to think carefully and intently about Jesus Christ, His character, mission, and work. Jesus is referred to as the "Apostle," which signifies one who is sent, emphasizing His role as the one sent by God the Father to reveal divine truth.

The term "High Priest" highlights His position as a mediator between God and man, particularly focusing on His role in offering Himself as a sacrifice for sins and His continual intercession for believers.

"Christ Jesus" is the central figure to be considered, illustrating His divinity (Christ) and humanity (Jesus), and the "profession," or confession, is the faith professed by the believers, of which Jesus is both the originator and object.

Historical Context

The book of Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament scriptures and Jewish traditions.

The author is unknown, but the style and content suggest it was written for those who understood the significance of the Jewish priesthood and sacrificial system.

The environment was likely a time of persecution or difficulty for these early Christians, where they faced the danger of falling away from their faith.

The author writes to exhort them to steadfastness by pointing to the superiority and sufficiency of Christ over all things, including the Old Covenant.

Theological Insights

From an evangelical perspective, this verse emphasizes the uniqueness of Jesus Christ as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, fulfilling both the prophetic role (Apostle) and the priestly role (High Priest).

Similarly, reformist theologies might focus on the pre-eminence of Christ as a cornerstone of faith where believers must fix their attention.

Catholic and Orthodox interpretations may delve more into the idea of the communal aspect of salvation, highlighting the collective identity of the Church as partakers in Christ's priesthood and mission.

Liberal theologians might interpret the verse as an ethical exhortation to consider the example of Jesus in their personal and social behavior.

Practical Applications

The verse serves as a reminder for believers to keep their focus on Jesus Christ amid trials, distractions, and competing ideologies.

It calls for deep contemplation on who Christ is and what He has done, thereby encouraging a stronger faith and commitment to Christian principles.

Applying this verse can also mean recognizing one's role in the heavenly calling and actively participating in the shared faith and mission of the Christian community.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 4:14-15: "Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession."
• Hebrews 2:17: "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people."
• John 20:21: "Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for "consider" is "κατανοήσατε" (katanoesate), which comes from "kata" (down/according to) and "noeo" (to perceive/think). It implies a thorough and attentive reflection.

"Apostle" translates from "ἀπόστολον" (apostolon), meaning one who is sent forth, especially in an official capacity.

"High Priest" is derived from "ἀρχιερέα" (archierea), referring to the chief priest, with the implication of supreme religious leadership.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religious systems, there were figures who served as intermediaries between the gods and humanity, such as the priests in ancient Egypt who acted on behalf of the people in religious rites.

However, the concept of an individual being both the Apostle and High Priest is unique to Christianity and signifies the belief in Jesus as the ultimate sent one from God who also serves perpetually as the mediator and sacrificer.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly engage with scientific perspectives, as it focuses on theological and spiritual roles of Jesus Christ.

However, modern understandatives of community, identity, and shared purpose may find support in psychological and social sciences, which emphasize the importance of a shared set of beliefs or mission for the coherence and health of a community.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians offer insight into this verse.

Matthew Henry's commentary emphasizes the necessity of steadfastness in faith and the example of Jesus as an encouragement to faithfulness.

Adam Clarke notes the relationship between Jesus' designation as Apostle and High Priest and the believers' responsibility to adhere to their profession of faith.

The Expositor's Bible Commentary might discuss the link between Jesus' heavenly mission and the earthly response of the believers, focusing on Jesus as a model for obedience and faith.