Hebrews 9:15

KJV

¶ And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} for this {G5124} cause {G1223} he is {G2076} the mediator {G3316} of the new {G2537} testament {G1242}, that {G3704} by means {G1096} of death {G2288}, for {G1519} the redemption {G629} of the transgressions {G3847} that were under {G1909} the first {G4413} testament {G1242}, they which are called {G2564} might receive {G2983} the promise {G1860} of eternal {G166} inheritance {G2817}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It is because of this death that he is mediator of a new covenant [or will]. Because a death has occurred which sets people free from the transgressions committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promised eternal inheritance.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, now that He has died to redeem them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.

American Standard Version

And for this cause he is the mediator of a new covenant, that a death having taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first covenant, they that have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 9:15 profoundly articulates the pivotal role of Jesus Christ as the mediator of the New Covenant. Through His singular, atoning death, He secured the redemption of all transgressions committed under the Old Covenant, thereby enabling those whom God has called to inherit the eternal promise of salvation and a lasting relationship with Him. This verse underscores the superiority and efficacy of Christ's sacrifice, which possesses both retroactive and eternal power, establishing a new and better way for humanity to approach God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a theological linchpin within the broader argument of Hebrews chapters 8-10, where the author systematically demonstrates the superiority of Christ's priesthood and the New Covenant over the Levitical priesthood and the Old Covenant. Having established in [Hebrews 8](/hebrews/8 "Hebrews 8 - The New Covenant") that Jesus serves as a high priest of a "better covenant" based on "better promises," chapter 9 elaborates on the practical implications of this new arrangement. The preceding verses (Hebrews 9:1-14) meticulously describe the earthly tabernacle, its rituals, and the limitations of the Old Covenant sacrifices, setting the stage for the dramatic contrast presented in verse 15. The author highlights that the blood of animals could only provide ceremonial cleansing, not true spiritual purification or a clear conscience, thus necessitating Christ's perfect, once-for-all sacrifice.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The audience of the book of Hebrews was primarily Jewish Christians, likely facing persecution or temptation to revert to the familiar practices of Judaism. They were deeply rooted in the traditions of the Mosaic Law, the temple cult, and the Levitical sacrificial system. The author's detailed exposition of the tabernacle, the priests, and the sacrifices (as found in [Exodus 25-40](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-40 - Tabernacle Instructions and Construction") and [Leviticus](/leviticus "Leviticus - Laws and Sacrifices")) would have resonated strongly with their background. The concept of a "covenant" (Greek: _diathēkē_) was central to Jewish thought, referring to God's binding agreements with His people, such as the Abrahamic and Mosaic covenants. The author's argument for a "new" and "better" covenant, mediated by a superior High Priest, directly addressed their cultural and religious framework, urging them to fully embrace Christ as the fulfillment of all Old Testament types and shadows.
* **Key Themes:** Hebrews 9:15 encapsulates several major theological themes prevalent throughout the book. Firstly, it emphasizes **Jesus's role as the supreme Mediator**, highlighting His unique qualification to bridge the gap between God and humanity, a theme further explored in [Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Jesus, the Mediator of a Better Covenant"). Secondly, the verse underscores the **efficacy of Christ's sacrificial death**, presenting it as the definitive means of redemption, not only for future sins but also for those committed under the Old Covenant, demonstrating the timeless power of His atonement. This concept is foundational to the book's argument that Christ's sacrifice "perfects forever those who are being made holy" ([Hebrews 10:14](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Thirdly, it points to the **promise of eternal inheritance**, contrasting the temporary, earthly inheritance of the Old Covenant with the permanent, spiritual inheritance secured by Christ for His called ones, a hope that anchors believers in [Hebrews 6:12](/hebrews/6-12 "Hebrews 6:12 - Inheriting the Promises Through Faith and Patience").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Mediator (Greek, _mesítēs'_):** From G3316, meaning "a go-between, i.e. (simply) an internunciator, or (by implication) a reconciler (intercessor)." In this context, Jesus is the crucial intermediary who stands between God and humanity, reconciling them and establishing the terms of the New Covenant. His unique position as both fully God and fully man enables Him to perfectly represent both parties, ensuring the agreement's validity and efficacy.
* **Testament (Greek, _diathḗkē'_):** From G1242, properly meaning "a disposition, i.e. (specially) a contract (especially a devisory will)." While often translated as "testament" (implying a will that takes effect upon death), the primary sense here is "covenant" – a divinely initiated, binding agreement. The New Covenant, unlike the Old, is inaugurated and guaranteed by Christ's death, making it an unbreakable and eternal pact.
* **Redemption (Greek, _apolýtrōsis'_):** From G629, meaning "(the act) ransom in full, i.e. (figuratively) riddance, or (specially) Christian salvation." This term signifies a deliverance achieved through the payment of a price. Here, it refers to the liberation from the penalty and power of sin, which was accomplished by Christ's sacrificial death. It implies a complete and permanent release, not merely a temporary covering of sin.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament":** This clause establishes Jesus's unique and essential role. "For this cause" refers back to the preceding discussion about the inadequacy of the Old Covenant's sacrifices and the necessity of a better High Priest. Jesus is not merely a messenger but the active "mediator" (go-between) who brings into effect the "new testament" or New Covenant, a superior agreement between God and humanity.
* **"that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament":** This explains _how_ Jesus mediates the New Covenant and _what_ it accomplishes. The phrase "by means of death" (G1096 _gínomai_ - to become, come into being; G2288 _thánatos_ - death) underscores that Christ's sacrificial death was the indispensable condition for the New Covenant's inauguration and its redemptive power. This death provides "redemption" (a full ransom) for "transgressions" (G3847 _parábasis_ - violation) that occurred even "under the first testament" (G1909 _epí_ - upon; G4413 _prōtos_ - first; G1242 _diathēkē_ - covenant). This highlights the retroactive efficacy of Christ's atonement, covering sins from all eras.
* **"they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance":** This final clause articulates the glorious outcome and benefit of Christ's mediatorial work. "They which are called" (G2564 _kaléō_ - to call) refers to those whom God has chosen and invited into this new relationship. The purpose of Christ's death and mediation is so that these called ones "might receive" (G2983 _lambánō_ - to take, obtain) "the promise" (G1860 _epangelía_ - a divine assurance of good) of an "eternal inheritance" (G166 _aiṓnios_ - perpetual; G2817 _klēronomía_ - patrimony, possession). This signifies a secure, permanent, and spiritual possession in God's kingdom, contrasting sharply with the temporary, earthly inheritance associated with the Old Covenant.

#### Literary Devices
The author of Hebrews employs several literary devices to convey the profound theological truths of this verse. **Contrast** is paramount, as the "new testament" is set against the "first testament," highlighting the inadequacy of the old and the superiority of the new. This contrast extends to the means of redemption—animal sacrifices versus Christ's singular death—and the outcome—temporary cleansing versus eternal inheritance. **Metonymy** is present in the use of "death" to represent Christ's sacrificial act, where the effect (atonement) is represented by its cause (His death). The phrase "eternal inheritance" functions as **Symbolism**, representing not merely a physical possession but a spiritual reality of belonging to God's family and sharing in His divine life and kingdom, a concept far grander than any earthly patrimony. The precise and legalistic language surrounding "mediator," "testament," and "redemption" also lends an air of **Forensic Language**, emphasizing the legal and covenantal aspects of salvation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 9:15 is a cornerstone of Christian theology, firmly establishing the unique and indispensable role of Jesus Christ in salvation history. It asserts that His death is not merely one sacrifice among many, but the definitive, once-for-all atonement that transcends time, effectively dealing with all human sin—past, present, and future. This verse underscores the concept of grace, where the "promise of eternal inheritance" is received by those "called" by God, not earned through adherence to a legal code. It highlights the profound shift from a covenant based on human obedience and temporary rituals to one founded on Christ's perfect obedience and His finished work, securing a permanent and perfect redemption for all who believe.
* [Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Propitiation by Christ's Blood")
* [1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator Between God and Man")
* [Galatians 3:18](/galatians/3-18 "Galatians 3:18 - Inheritance Through Promise, Not Law")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 9:15 offers immense comfort and profound implications for daily Christian living. It assures us that our salvation is not precarious, dependent on our fluctuating performance or the efficacy of human rituals, but is securely grounded in the perfect, finished work of Jesus Christ. His death not only addresses our current sins but retroactively covers all transgressions, past and present, liberating us from the burden of guilt and the futility of self-effort. This truth should cultivate a deep sense of gratitude, prompting us to live lives that honor such a costly and comprehensive redemption. We are called to live not under the shadow of the law's demands, but in the freedom of grace, confidently approaching God through our High Priest. Our "eternal inheritance" is a guaranteed future, providing hope and resilience in the face of life's challenges, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Jesus as the "mediator of the new testament" deepen your appreciation for His unique role in your salvation?**
* **In what ways does the retroactive power of Christ's death for "transgressions that were under the first testament" impact your understanding of God's justice and mercy across history?**
* **What does the "promise of eternal inheritance" mean for your daily walk, and how does it shape your priorities and hopes?**
* **How can the assurance of a complete redemption through Christ's death free you from striving or performance-based spirituality?**

### FAQ

**What is the "new testament" in Hebrews 9:15, and how does it differ from the "first testament"?**

Answer: The "new testament" (or New Covenant) refers to the new, superior, and eternal agreement God established with humanity through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. It differs fundamentally from the "first testament" (the Old Covenant, primarily the Mosaic Law) in several key ways. The Old Covenant, with its animal sacrifices and earthly tabernacle, was temporary and symbolic, pointing forward to Christ. It could not truly cleanse the conscience or provide perfect redemption for sin ([Hebrews 10:4](/hebrews/10-4 "Hebrews 10:4 - Insufficiency of Animal Sacrifices")). The New Covenant, however, is inaugurated by Christ's perfect, once-for-all sacrifice, which provides complete and eternal redemption for sins ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")). It is based on better promises, written on the hearts of believers, and mediated by a superior High Priest, Jesus Himself ([Hebrews 8:6-10](/hebrews/8-6-10 "Hebrews 8:6-10 - The Superiority of the New Covenant")).

**How can Christ's death redeem "transgressions that were under the first testament" if He died much later?**

Answer: Christ's death is understood to have a retroactive and eternal efficacy because He is God and His sacrifice is perfect and timeless. The author of Hebrews emphasizes that the Old Covenant sacrifices, while commanded by God, were merely types and shadows that could not truly take away sin ([Hebrews 10:1-4](/hebrews/10-1-4 "Hebrews 10:1-4 - The Law as a Shadow of Good Things to Come")). They served to cover sins until the ultimate, perfect sacrifice of Christ was offered. From God's eternal perspective, Christ's death was the predetermined means of salvation from the foundation of the world ([Revelation 13:8](/revelation/13-8 "Revelation 13:8 - The Lamb Slain from the Foundation of the World")). Therefore, all who believed in God and sought forgiveness through the prescribed means under the Old Covenant were, in essence, saved by faith in the coming Messiah, whose death would ultimately pay for their sins. His sacrifice is not limited by time, but covers all transgressions across history.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 9:15 stands as a powerful declaration of Christ's ultimate fulfillment of all Old Testament types and shadows. The entire sacrificial system, the Levitical priesthood, and the tabernacle rituals were but a foreshadowing of the perfect reality embodied in Jesus. He is the true and final Mediator, not of a temporary covenant, but of an eternal one, established not by the blood of animals but by His own precious blood shed on the cross. This single, decisive act of His death accomplished what countless animal sacrifices could not: the complete "redemption of the transgressions" for all time. This echoes the prophetic words of [Isaiah 53:5-6](/isaiah/53-5-6 "Isaiah 53:5-6 - The Suffering Servant") and finds its ultimate expression in the New Testament, where Jesus is proclaimed as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Through His perfect sacrifice, He secured for "they which are called" the "promise of eternal inheritance," a spiritual reality far surpassing the earthly inheritance of Israel, leading to the glorious hope of being [co-heirs with Christ](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ") in the kingdom of God. His mediatorial work ensures that access to God is no longer restricted or temporary but is now direct, permanent, and founded on grace, fulfilling the longing for true reconciliation expressed throughout the Old Testament.

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

Romans 3:24

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

Romans 3:26

To declare, [I say], at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

Romans 8:30

Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

Hebrews 9:12

Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption [for us].

Hebrews 10:36

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

Hebrews 12:24

And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than [that of] Abel.