And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but being called of God (the ὁ of Textus Receptus before καλούμενος — "he that is called," as in A.V.—has very slight authority), even as was Aaron. This verse expresses the second essential of a high priest, Divine appointment, for assurance of the efficacy of his mediation. Of course Aaron's successors derived their Divine commission from his original one (cf. Numbers 21:26 ; Numbers 26:10-14 ). read more
These verses show us the honor of the priesthood. Aaron was divinely called ( Exodus 28:1 ), and was endowed with gifts and qualifications for the office. It was an honor to approach unto God in the sacred uses of his ministry; "for blessed is the man whom thou choosest and causest to approach unto thee." He transacted the most important affairs for the people, and made reconciliation for them on the Day of Atonement. He revealed and interpreted the Divine will by Urim and Thummim, and his... read more
So also Christ glorified not himself to be made a High Priest . Here begins the proof that Christ fulfils the two requirements, that mentioned second in the previous statement being taken first in the proof— chiastically, as is usual in this Epistle. The expression, ἑαυτὸν ἐδόξασε , rather than τὴν τιμὴν ἔλαβε , may have reference to the glory wherewith Christ is crowned in his exalted position as Priest-King (cf. Hebrews 2:9 ). But he that said unto him, Thou art my... read more
And no man taketh this honor to himself - No one has a right to enter on this office unless he has the qualifications which God has prescribed. There were fixed and definite laws in regard to the succession in the office of the high priest, and to the qualifications of him who should hold the office.But he that is called of God as was Aaron - Aaron was designated by name. It was necessary that his successors should have as clear evidence that they were called of God to the office, as though... read more
So also Christ glorified not himself; - see the notes at John 8:54. The meaning is, that Jesus was not ambitious; that he did not obtrude himself into the great office of high priest; he did not enter upon its duties without being regularly called to it. Paul claimed that Christ held that office; but, as he was not descended front Aaron, and as no one might perform its duties without being regularly called to it, it was incumbent on him to show that Jesus was not an intruder, but had a regular... read more
Hebrews 5:4-6. And no man Who has any regard to duty or safety; taketh this honour This awful office, attended with a high degree of responsibility; unto himself, but he only that is called of God to it; as was Aaron And his posterity, who were all of them called at one and the same time. But it is observable Aaron did not preach at all, preaching being no part of the priestly office. So also Christ glorified not himself See John 8:54; to be made a High-Priest That is, did not... read more
A high priest for the faithful (4:14-5:10)Because people were in danger of denying their Christian faith and going back to Judaism, they are reminded that Christ’s priesthood is incomparably superior to Aaron’s. Christ needs no tabernacle or temple, for he has passed through the heavens and into the presence of God. Through him, believers also may enter this presence, and ask God’s help during their temptations. They can depend upon Christ, because being man he can sympathize with them, and... read more
no man = not (Greek. ou) any (Greek. tis) one. unto = to. he that is . The texts omit. called = when called. as, &c . = even as Aaron also was. Compare Exodus 28:1 .Numbers 3:10 ; and contrast Numbers 16:1-40 . read more
also, &c . = Christ ( App-98 . IX) also. glorified . See p. 1511. an . Omit. High Priest . See Hebrews 2:17 . said . Greek. laleo . App-121 . Thou, &c. See Hebrews 1:5 . read more
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The Pulpit Commentary - Hebrews 5:1-10
Style high priesthood of Christ. In these verses the author proceeds with his discussion of the priestly character and work of the Lord Jesus, as typified by the Aaronical priesthood. I. WHAT A HIGH PRIEST IS . The office is a most honorable one; it is referred to in Hebrews 5:4 as "the honor." This will appear from a consideration of the high priest's functions and qualifications. 1. His functions. The most important of these are indicated in Hebrews 5:1 . 2. ... read more