Hebrews 2:12
Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.
Original Language Analysis
λέγων,
Saying
G3004
λέγων,
Saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 13
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὄνομά
name
G3686
ὄνομά
name
Strong's:
G3686
Word #:
4 of 13
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀδελφοῖς
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοῖς
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
7 of 13
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
ἐκκλησίας
of the church
G1577
ἐκκλησίας
of the church
Strong's:
G1577
Word #:
11 of 13
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
Cross References
Psalms 22:22I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.Psalms 40:10I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.Psalms 111:1Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.
Historical Context
Psalm 22 was recognized as messianic due to its graphic depiction of crucifixion details centuries before that form of execution existed. Christ's quotation from this psalm on the cross (v. 1) would have been well known to the readers.
Questions for Reflection
- How does being called Christ's brother change your understanding of your identity?
- What does it mean that Christ is not ashamed to call you His brother/sister?
Analysis & Commentary
Quoting Psalm 22:22, a messianic psalm of suffering and vindication, the author shows Christ declaring God's name to His 'brethren' (Greek 'adelphois'). This is stunning - the eternal Son calls redeemed humans His brothers. This familial language grounds the Reformed doctrine of adoption: through union with Christ, believers are brought into God's family, sharing Christ's inheritance and relationship with the Father.