Hebrews 7:28

KJV

For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, [maketh] the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} the law {G3551} maketh {G2525} men {G444} high priests {G749} which have {G2192} infirmity {G769}; but {G1161} the word {G3056} of the oath {G3728}, which {G3588} was since {G3326} the law {G3551}, maketh the Son {G5207}, who is consecrated {G5048} for {G1519} evermore {G165}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the Torah appoints as cohanim g’dolim men who have weakness; but the text which speaks about the swearing of the oath, a text written later than the Torah, appoints a Son who has been brought to the goal forever.

Berean Standard Bible

For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever.

American Standard Version

For the law appointeth men high priests, having infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was after the law, appointeth a Son, perfected for evermore.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 7:28 serves as a profound concluding statement to the author's extensive argument for the superiority of Jesus Christ's high priesthood over the Levitical priesthood. It succinctly contrasts the inherent weakness and temporary nature of human high priests, appointed by the Mosaic Law, with the eternal perfection and divine appointment by oath of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who is forever consecrated for His priestly office. This verse encapsulates the foundational theological shift from the Old Covenant's shadows to the New Covenant's ultimate reality in Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Hebrews 7, particularly the latter half, meticulously builds a case for Christ's superior priesthood by drawing parallels and contrasts with Melchizedek and the Levitical order. The chapter first establishes Melchizedek's preeminence over Abraham and, by extension, over the Levitical priesthood (through Levi being "in the loins" of Abraham when he paid tithes to Melchizedek). It then argues for a change in the law to accommodate a priesthood "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:11-19](/hebrews/7-11-19 "Hebrews 7:11-19 - A New Priesthood")). The author highlights the impermanence of the Levitical priests due to death and their sinfulness, necessitating a continuous succession and repeated sacrifices ([Hebrews 7:23-27](/hebrews/7-23-27 "Hebrews 7:23-27 - Limitations of Levitical Priests")). Verse 28 acts as the climactic summary of this entire argument, presenting the definitive, unassailable contrast between the two covenants' priestly systems.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The audience of the Book of Hebrews was primarily Jewish Christians who were contemplating reverting to Judaism, possibly due to persecution or a misunderstanding of the New Covenant's finality. For them, the Levitical priesthood and the Mosaic Law were deeply ingrained aspects of their religious identity, representing centuries of divine institution. The high priest held a uniquely revered position as the mediator between God and Israel, responsible for the annual Day of Atonement ([Leviticus 16](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement")). The author's argument directly challenges their traditional understanding by demonstrating that the Old Covenant, though divinely ordained, was provisional and pointed to a greater reality. The contrast between human frailty and divine perfection would have resonated deeply, highlighting the inadequacy of human efforts to bridge the gap with a holy God.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Hebrews. Firstly, it underscores the **superiority of Christ** over all Old Testament institutions, particularly the priesthood. Secondly, it emphasizes the **perfection of the New Covenant** in contrast to the Old, which was inherently imperfect and temporary due to its reliance on flawed human agents and repeated rituals. Thirdly, the theme of **Christ's eternal and unchangeable priesthood** is central, rooted in God's unalterable oath ([Psalm 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Oath to Melchizedek")). This eternal priesthood guarantees perpetual intercession and complete access to God for believers, a stark difference from the transient and limited access provided by the Levitical system. The author consistently builds the case that Christ's once-for-all sacrifice and eternal ministry fulfill and supersede all that came before, providing a "better hope" ([Hebrews 7:19](/hebrews/7-19 "Hebrews 7:19 - A Better Hope")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **maketh (Greek, _kathístēmi'_):** This word, meaning "to place down (permanently), i.e. (figuratively) to designate, constitute, convoy," highlights the act of appointment. In the context of the law, it signifies the legal establishment or ordination of the Levitical high priests. The law *appointed* them, but this appointment was tied to their human limitations.
* **infirmity (Greek, _asthéneia'_):** Derived from a word meaning "feebleness (of mind or body)," this term implies malady, moral frailty, sickness, or weakness. Here, it is crucial, as it points to the inherent human limitations, sinfulness, and mortality of the Levitical high priests. They were subject to physical decay and moral imperfection, necessitating their own purification before ministering for others.
* **consecrated (Greek, _teleióō'_):** This verb means "to complete, i.e. (literally) accomplish, or (figuratively) consummate (in character); to make perfect." In the perfect passive participle form, as used here, it signifies that Jesus has been brought to a state of ultimate perfection and full qualification for His priestly role. This perfection is not merely moral but also functional and eternal, indicating His complete suitability and permanent appointment by God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the law maketh men high priests":** This clause establishes the source of authority for the Levitical priesthood: the Mosaic Law. It underscores that these priests were "men"—human beings subject to all the limitations of humanity, distinct from the divine Son.
* **"which have infirmity":** This phrase immediately qualifies the human high priests, highlighting their fundamental flaw. Their "infirmity" encompasses their mortality, their susceptibility to sin, and their inherent weakness, making them imperfect mediators who themselves needed atonement.
* **"but the word of the oath":** This introduces a dramatic contrast ("but") and points to the superior foundation of Christ's priesthood. "The word of the oath" refers specifically to God's solemn, unchangeable declaration in [Psalm 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - God's Oath to Christ"), which states, "The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind: 'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.'"
* **"which was since the law":** This phrase emphasizes the chronological and theological precedence of the oath over the Law. While the Law came later, the divine oath concerning a perpetual priest "after the order of Melchizedek" was a prophetic declaration that, in its fulfillment, supersedes the temporary provisions of the Law. It signifies a new, superior dispensation.
* **"[maketh] the Son":** Although the verb "maketh" (or "appoints") is implied here from the first clause, its subject shifts dramatically from "men" to "the Son." This identifies Jesus Christ as the divinely appointed High Priest. His unique identity as the Son of God sets Him apart from all human priests.
* **"who is consecrated for evermore":** This final phrase describes the Son's ultimate qualification and the eternal nature of His priesthood. "Consecrated" (made perfect/complete) signifies His sinless nature and His perfect suitability for the role. "For evermore" emphasizes the permanence and unchangeable character of His ministry, in stark contrast to the mortal and temporary Levitical priests.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Hebrews 7:28 is **Contrast**. The verse is structured as a direct antithesis, pitting the "law" against "the word of the oath," "men high priests" against "the Son," and "infirmity" against being "consecrated for evermore." This **Juxtaposition** starkly highlights the deficiencies of the Old Covenant priesthood and the absolute perfection and permanence of Christ's priesthood. The author uses this rhetorical strategy to drive home his central theological argument: that the New Covenant, established through Christ, is superior because its High Priest is superior. The verse also functions as a **Summary Statement**, encapsulating the complex theological arguments made throughout the preceding verses of Hebrews 7 into a concise and powerful declaration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 7:28 profoundly articulates the theological distinctives of the New Covenant. It reveals that the Old Covenant, while divinely instituted, was never intended to be the ultimate means of salvation or access to God. Its high priests, being human and fallible, could only offer temporary and incomplete atonement. In contrast, Christ's priesthood, established by God's unchangeable oath, is perfect and eternal, providing a complete and final solution to sin. This truth underpins the believer's confidence in approaching God, knowing that their High Priest is not only sinless but also lives forever to intercede on their behalf. It shifts the focus from human effort and ritualistic adherence to the finished work of Christ, securing a "better covenant" for all who believe.

* [Psalm 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to a Priest Forever"): This prophetic psalm is foundational to Hebrews 7, serving as the "word of the oath" that establishes Christ's eternal priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.
* [Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Drawing Near to the Throne of Grace"): Because we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities, we can boldly approach the throne of grace.
* [Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice"): Christ, as High Priest of the good things to come, entered once for all into the holy place, not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 7:28 offers immense comfort and assurance to believers. In a world characterized by change, uncertainty, and human imperfection, this verse points to the unchangeable and perfect nature of our High Priest, Jesus Christ. We are no longer dependent on a succession of flawed human mediators or a system of repeated sacrifices. Instead, our access to God is secured by the single, perfect, and eternal ministry of the Son, who has been consecrated forevermore. This truth should inspire unwavering confidence in our salvation and empower us to live with boldness, knowing that our intercessor is perpetually at the right hand of God. It calls us to rest in His finished work, to approach God's throne with confidence, and to live lives that reflect the security and peace found in His perfect priesthood.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the "infirmity" of the Levitical priests deepen your appreciation for Christ's perfection?**
* **In what ways does Christ being "consecrated for evermore" provide you with greater assurance and peace in your faith?**
* **How does the contrast between the "law" and "the word of the oath" influence your understanding of the Old and New Covenants?**

### FAQ

**What does "infirmity" mean in the context of the high priests?**

Answer: In Hebrews 7:28, "infirmity" (Greek: _asthéneia_) refers to the inherent weaknesses, frailties, and limitations of human beings, including their mortality and susceptibility to sin. The Levitical high priests, being mere men, were subject to death, which necessitated a continuous succession of priests ([Hebrews 7:23](/hebrews/7-23 "Hebrews 7:23 - Many Priests Due to Death")). Furthermore, they were themselves sinful, requiring them to offer sacrifices for their own sins before they could minister on behalf of the people ([Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Priests Offer for Themselves")). This "infirmity" highlighted the temporary and imperfect nature of their priesthood under the Old Covenant.

**Why is Christ's priesthood said to be "since the law"?**

Answer: The phrase "which was since the law" refers to "the word of the oath" (God's oath in [Psalm 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - God's Oath to Christ")). This means that while the Mosaic Law, which established the Levitical priesthood, came into effect at a specific point in history, the divine oath concerning a priest "forever, in the order of Melchizedek," was a prophetic declaration that, in its ultimate fulfillment through Christ, supersedes the Law. It signifies a new, superior dispensation that was always part of God's eternal plan, even if its full revelation came after the Law. The author of Hebrews argues that the very existence of such an oath implied the provisional nature of the Levitical system and the coming of a better, eternal priesthood.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 7:28 presents a powerful Christ-centered fulfillment by contrasting the temporary, flawed priesthood of the Old Covenant with the eternal, perfect priesthood of Jesus Christ. The Levitical priests, appointed by the Law, were mere men burdened by "infirmity"—mortality and sinfulness—requiring them to offer repeated sacrifices for themselves and the people. This system, though divinely ordained for its time, was a shadow pointing to the ultimate reality. Jesus, as "the Son," fulfills this shadow perfectly. His priesthood is not based on human lineage or a temporary legal decree, but on "the word of the oath" from [Psalm 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Lord's Oath to a Priest Forever"), an unchangeable divine promise. He is "consecrated for evermore," meaning He is perfectly qualified, morally pure, and eternally appointed for His role. Unlike the Old Testament priests who died and had to be replaced, Christ's resurrection ensures His perpetual ministry ([Hebrews 7:24-25](/hebrews/7-24-25 "Hebrews 7:24-25 - Christ's Permanent Priesthood")). His single, perfect sacrifice on the cross ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")) superseded all previous offerings, providing eternal redemption. Thus, Christ is the ultimate High Priest, the perfect mediator who lives to intercede for His people, offering a permanent and complete access to God that the old system could never provide ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Our Great High Priest")).

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.

Cross-References

Hebrews 2:10

¶ For it became him, for whom [are] all things, and by whom [are] all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

Hebrews 1:2

Hath in these last days spoken unto us by [his] Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

Hebrews 7:21

(For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)

Hebrews 5:1

¶ For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things [pertaining] to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:

Hebrews 5:2

Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.

Luke 13:32

And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and to morrow, and the third [day] I shall be perfected.

Psalms 110:4

The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.