Hebrews 8:3 Commentary Summary

Verse: Hebrews 8:3

"For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; so also Christ did not glorify himself to become a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, 'You are my Son; today I have begotten you.'" (Hebrews 8:3, ESV)

Introduction

The epistle to the Hebrews encompasses profound theological implications, primarily focusing on the superiority of Christ's priesthood. In Hebrews 8:3, the author succinctly articulates the role of the high priest, which is crucial to understanding Christ's appointed authority and the nature of His sacrifice. Insights from notable public domain commentaries shed light on this pivotal verse.

Comments from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of the priestly role, noting that God's plan necessitated a priest to mediate between Himself and humanity. In Hebrews 8:3, he elaborates that the primary duty of the high priest is to offer gifts and sacrifices. Henry points out that the phrase 'gifts and sacrifices' encompasses both the offerings made for sin and other expressions of devotion. This duality reflects the comprehensive nature of Christ's intercession.

Furthermore, Henry underscores that while human high priests were appointed, Christ's priesthood is divinely ordained. He states that Christ “did not glorify himself” in taking this role, which aligns with the biblical view of humility and the submission of the Son to the Father’s will. The quotation from Psalm 2:7 underscores Jesus' divine sonship, affirming His rightful place in salvation history.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes offers a detailed examination of the high priest's function as outlined in this verse. He remarks that the designation of the high priest relates to two core responsibilities: offering gifts and sacrifices for the people and representing them before God. This notion is pivotal as it lays the foundation for understanding Christ's sacrificial death and His active role in atonement.

Barnes further elucidates the implication that every high priest is divinely appointed. He highlights the significance of the phrase, “so also Christ did not glorify himself,” indicating that Christ’s exaltation was not of His own merit but through the appointment by the Father. This divine appointment is crucial for establishing the legitimacy of Christ’s priesthood, as it fulfills the requirements set forth in the law.

Adam Clarke's Perspective

Adam Clarke provides a comprehensive view of the theological implications inherent in Hebrews 8:3. He notes that every high priest’s role centers around the act of offering, which denotes both the physical act and the spiritual significance behind offering sacrifices. Clarke asserts that Christ’s offering transcends that of the Levitical priests because it is a single, once-for-all sacrifice.

Clarke also comments on the quote from Psalm 2:7, interpreting it as a proclamation of Christ’s unique relationship with the Father, which is pivotal for understanding the New Covenant. He argues that this verse signifies the switch from the old sacrificial system to the new, where Christ embodies the perfect priest and sacrifice. Clarke emphasizes that understanding this relationship deepens our understanding of God’s redemptive work through Christ.

Thematic Analysis

• The Role of the High Priest: The high priest serves a mediatory role, fulfilling the spiritual need for intercession. Hebrews 8:3 sets the stage for understanding how Christ fulfills this role in a way that exceeds the limitations of the Levitical priests.
• Divine Appointment: The contrast between human selection and divine appointment stresses the legitimacy and authority of Christ's ministry. Christ's priesthood is rooted in His identity as the Son of God.
• Sacrifice as Central Theme: The act of sacrifice is central to understanding atonement. Christ’s work is characterized as the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system.
• Transcendence of Christ's Ministry: The mention of “gifts and sacrifices” leads to the understanding that while previous sacrifices were adequate for their time, Christ’s sacrifice is unparalleled, definitive, and final.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: The reference to Psalm 2:7 emphasizes how Christ’s appointment as high priest fulfills Old Testament prophecy, linking the continuity of God’s plan across covenants.

Conclusion

Hebrews 8:3 encapsulates crucial elements for theological reflection on Christ's role as high priest. By synthesizing teachings from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we appreciate the depth and breadth of Christ's mediatorial work. This verse not only illustrates the heart of the New Covenant but also invites pastoral leaders, students, and scholars to delve deeply into the implications of Christ's divine appointment, the nature of His sacrifice, and the hope offered through His priesthood. Ultimately, Hebrews 8:3 serves as a reminder of the transformative nature of what Christ accomplished on our behalf.