Hebrews 2

Daily Devotional from Hebrews 2--

Verses 17-18

Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

High priests in the Old Testament were responsible for interceding for a sinful people to a holy God. Since they were sinners themselves they were better able to understand and empathize with the people and pour out their hearts in support of them.

Jesus is our High Priest. He was tempted in all ways as we are. Suffering through temptation while on earth (without falling) allowed Jesus to experience the same suffering we (His brothers) face resisting temptation. In Mere Christianity (Book III, Chap. 11), C. S. Lewis claimed Jesus experienced even greater suffering than us, since He did not fall as we all do. This suffering on our behalf allows Jesus to understand in a human, experiential way (not just theoretical) the difficulty in resisting temptation, thus making Him a better Advocate with the Father and minister for us.

When facing temptation (or after falling) go to our great High Priest for help or forgiveness. He understands.

Rick Bolesta