7:15 7:15

Hebrews 7:16

7:17 7:17

Bible Versions

Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.
Who {G3739} is made {G1096}, not {G3756} after {G2596} the law {G3551} of a carnal {G4559} commandment {G1785}, but {G235} after {G2596} the power {G1411} of an endless {G179} life {G2222}.
one who became a cohen not by virtue of a rule in the Torah concerning physical descent, but by virtue of the power of an indestructible life.
one who has become a priest not by a law of succession, but by the power of an indestructible life.
who hath been made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life:

Hebrews 7:16 (KJV)

"Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life."

Commentary

This verse explains the fundamental difference between the priesthood of Jesus Christ and the Levitical priesthood established under the Law of Moses, reinforcing the argument for the superiority of Christ's ministry.

Historical/Cultural Context

The Levitical priesthood was based on the specific rules and regulations given by God through Moses, outlined in the Old Testament Law. These included requirements for lineage (being from the tribe of Levi, specifically descendants of Aaron for high priests), age limits, physical purity, and specific procedures for sacrifices and temple service. These were earthly, tangible rules ("carnal commandments").

Key Themes

  • Nature of Priesthood Authority: The verse highlights that Jesus' authority as High Priest does not come from adherence to the temporary, physical rules of the Mosaic Law.
  • Power of Resurrection and Eternity: Instead, His priesthood is based on the inherent power of His eternal, indestructible life. This refers to His divine nature and His resurrection from the dead, which demonstrated His victory over death and His endless existence.
  • Superiority of Christ's Priesthood: Because His priesthood is founded on His eternal life, it is permanent and not subject to the limitations of death or the changing nature of earthly laws, unlike the Levitical priesthood where priests died and had to be replaced.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "law of a carnal commandment" (Greek: sarkikēs entolēs) implies a rule that pertains to the flesh, the physical, or the earthly realm. It contrasts sharply with "the power of an endless life" (Greek: dynamin zōēs akatalytou), which signifies the power of an indestructible, indissoluble life – a life that cannot be dissolved or brought to an end.

Cross-References

  • Hebrews 7:3 - Describing Melchizedek, a type of Christ, as having no end of life.
  • Hebrews 7:23-25 - Explaining that the Levitical priests were many because they died, but Jesus has an unchangeable priesthood because He lives forever.

Practical Application

Understanding that Jesus' priesthood is based on His eternal life assures believers that His work on our behalf is permanent and fully effective. Our access to God through Him is not dependent on fleeting rituals or human efforts, but on the unchanging, powerful reality of His endless life and continuous intercession. We can rely completely on His ongoing ministry.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
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