Hebrews 7:22
By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.
Original Language Analysis
κατὰ
By
G2596
κατὰ
By
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
1 of 7
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
τοσοῦτον
so much
G5118
τοσοῦτον
so much
Strong's:
G5118
Word #:
2 of 7
apparently from g3588 and g3739) and g3778 (including its variations); so vast as this, i.e., such (in quantity, amount, number of space)
κρείττονος
of a better
G2909
κρείττονος
of a better
Strong's:
G2909
Word #:
3 of 7
stronger, i.e., (figuratively) better, i.e., nobler
διαθήκης
testament
G1242
διαθήκης
testament
Strong's:
G1242
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a disposition, i.e., (specially) a contract (especially a devisory will)
γέγονεν
made
G1096
γέγονεν
made
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
5 of 7
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
Cross References
1 Corinthians 11:25After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.Genesis 44:32For thy servant became surety for the lad unto my father, saying, If I bring him not unto thee, then I shall bear the blame to my father for ever.Hebrews 13:20Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,Hebrews 12:24And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.Genesis 43:9I will be surety for him; of my hand shalt thou require him: if I bring him not unto thee, and set him before thee, then let me bear the blame for ever:Matthew 26:28For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.Luke 22:20Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
Historical Context
The old covenant at Sinai required the people's obedience but provided no power to obey. The new covenant, guaranteed by Christ, provides both forgiveness and the Spirit's transforming power.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ as guarantor of the new covenant give you confidence God's promises will be fulfilled?
- What promises of the new covenant are most precious to you?
Analysis & Commentary
'By so much' refers to the superiority just demonstrated. Christ becomes 'surety' (Greek 'eggyos'—guarantor, pledge) of a 'better testament' (covenant). A surety guarantees covenant obligations will be met. Christ guarantees the new covenant's promises through His own life and work. This makes the new covenant far superior to the old.