Hebrews 3:4
For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
οἶκος
house
G3624
οἶκος
house
Strong's:
G3624
Word #:
3 of 12
a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)
κατασκευάσας
he that built
G2680
κατασκευάσας
he that built
Strong's:
G2680
Word #:
4 of 12
to prepare thoroughly (properly, by external equipment; whereas g2090 refers rather to internal fitness); by implication, to construct, create
ὑπό
by
G5259
ὑπό
by
Strong's:
G5259
Word #:
5 of 12
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
This reasoning parallels John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16 in affirming Christ's role in creation. It answers Jewish objections by using a rabbinic-style argument from the lesser to the greater.
Questions for Reflection
- How does creation testify to you about the Creator's power and wisdom?
- What aspects of God's creative work most deeply reveal His character to you?
Analysis & Commentary
The universal principle stated—every house has a builder—leads to the conclusion that God built all things. Since Christ is identified as the builder (verse 3) and God is the builder of all, Christ's deity is implicitly affirmed. This is a logical argument from creation to Creator, from effect to cause.