Hebrews 3:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 3:1
1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;
Chapter Context
Hebrews 3 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, wisdom. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 3:1
1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;
Analysis
'Holy brethren' emphasizes believers' set-apart status and family relationship with Christ. 'Partakers of the heavenly calling' (Greek 'metochoi kleseos epouraniou') stresses that salvation originates from above, not human effort. Christ is presented with dual titles—'Apostle' (sent one) and 'High Priest'—combining His prophetic and priestly offices. 'Consider' (Greek 'katanoeo') means to fix attention upon, demanding sustained meditation.
Historical Context
Moses was the supreme figure in Judaism, the lawgiver and mediator of the old covenant. By calling Christ both Apostle and High Priest, the author shows He surpasses Moses (prophet) and Aaron (priest) combined.
Reflection
- How often do you deliberately consider or meditate on Christ's person and work?
- What does it mean practically to be a partaker of a heavenly rather than earthly calling?
Word Studies
- Messiah: Χριστός (Christos) G5547 - Christ, Anointed One
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Romans 15:8, Philippians 3:14
- Holy: Hebrews 7:26, 2 Timothy 1:9, 1 Peter 2:9
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 2:17, 10:21, 1 Corinthians 9:23, Ephesians 4:1, 4:4