Commentary on Hebrews 10:5

Verse Text: "Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: ‘Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You have prepared for Me.’" (Hebrews 10:5, NKJV)

Introduction

This verse serves as a pivotal point in understanding the theological implications of Christ's incarnation and the necessity of His sacrificial death. The author of Hebrews quotes Psalm 40:6-8, highlighting the transition from the Old Covenant's sacrificial system to the New Covenant instituted by Jesus Christ. The commentary provided by respected theologians sheds light on various dimensions of this profound truth.

Matthew Henry's Insights

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of Christ’s declaration as He entered the world. He notes that the Lord was not satisfied with the mere ritualistic sacrifices that characterized the Mosaic law, which had become a burden rather than a means of true worship. Henry elucidates that Jesus, acknowledging God’s ultimate desire, indicates that it was not the physical offerings that God sought, but rather obedience and a willing heart.

• Characteristics of the Sacrifice: Henry points out that the sacrifice required was not an animal or a grain offering, but a body – signifying the incarnation of Christ.
• Obedience Over Ritual: He elaborates that God wanted a willing servant who would embody righteousness, fulfilling the law perfectly.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes further illuminates this verse by explaining that the term "body" carries immense theological weight, indicating that Christ was fully human and could offer Himself as a perfect sacrifice. Barnes states, "A body has been prepared for the purpose of being offered in sacrifice." This highlights the divine preparation and intention behind Christ’s incarnation.

• This Prepares for Perfection: Barnes articulates that the preparation of a body was essential for the atonement; Christ's dual nature as both man and God enabled Him to bridge the gap between humanity and divinity.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: He stresses that by fulfilling the Scriptures, Christ’s work is a testament to the prophetic tradition found in the Old Testament.

Adam Clarke's Exegesis

Adam Clarke provides a more in-depth analysis of the phrase “a body You have prepared for Me.” He contends that God’s ultimate plan involved the physical embodiment of divine purposes. Clarke notes, "This body was prepared by God, which signifies His complete control over the environment and circumstances of Christ’s birth and mission." He emphasizes the remarkable interplay between God's sovereignty and human history.

• Preparation Signifies Intention: Clarke affirms that this preparation was not arbitrary but divinely orchestrated to fulfill God's redemptive plan.
• Humanity as a Central Theme: He highlights how the body of Christ symbolizes God's engagement with human frailty and His unyielding commitment to restoration.

Theological Implications

Among the collective thoughts of these commentaries, several key theological implications emerge from Hebrews 10:5:

• Incarnation: The necessity of Christ taking on flesh showcases the significance of the incarnation for redemption.
• Continuity of Revelation: By quoting from the Psalms, the author of Hebrews establishes continuity in God’s plan throughout history.
• Shift in Approach to Sacrifice: The pivot from animal sacrifices to the sacrifice of Christ indicates a new covenant rooted in grace, emphasizing faith and obedience over ritual.
• Christ as the Fulfillment: Jesus is presented as both the sacrifice and the high priest, fulfilling all requirements of the law and providing a perfect mediation for humanity.

Conclusion

Hebrews 10:5 captures the essence of God’s intent in the person of Christ. Through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we gain a fuller understanding of how this verse encapsulates the transition from the old sacrificial system to the new covenant. It articulates the heart of Christian theology—the idea that true worship and sacrifice stem not from ritual compliance but from a heart prepared to obey God’s will.