“The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless.” – Hebrews 7:18
Hebrews 7:18 Meaning
Hebrews 7:18 presents a powerful statement regarding the Old Covenant’s laws and regulations. In this context, the author of Hebrews explains that the former regulation has been set aside. This comment hinges on the realization that the regulations under the Mosaic Law, while essential for the Israelite community, were ultimately inadequate for offering true spiritual restitution and communion with God. The chapter centers around the idea that Jesus, through His sacrifice and resurrection, establishes a new and better covenant that surpasses the old one in effectiveness and ability to bring us closer to God.
In biblical terms, the “former regulation” refers to the intricate system of laws the Israelites followed, which governed every aspect of their lives. The idea that they were both “weak and useless” points out a critical truth: the Old Covenant could not provide the lasting salvation and reconciliation that is found solely through Jesus Christ. Unlike the first covenant, which involved continual sacrifices and rituals, the New Covenant introduced by Jesus allows for a direct relationship between us and God, redeeming humanity from sin without fault and establishing an eternal bond.
Hebrews 7:18 Commentary and Explanation
The implications of Hebrews 7:18 are profound for us as Christians. The Old Testament laws had a purpose, serving to guide the Israelites and reveal their need for a savior. However, the law was never designed to save. Instead, it highlighted humanity’s need for grace and forgiveness, which could only be fulfilled through Jesus Christ. When the author claims the “former regulation is set aside,” it marks a significant transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant established by Jesus. This passage reassures us that our salvation is secured through faith in Christ and not through strict adherence to the old laws.
To fully appreciate this passage, it’s essential to grasp the principles underlying both covenants. The Old Covenant operated on a system rooted in laws and sacrifices. It required the people to continually offer sacrifices to atone for their sins, which highlighted their inability to achieve righteousness on their own. This was evident through repeated transgressions and the multitude of sacrifices required.
In contrast, the New Covenant, namely through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, is founded on grace and faith. His one final act of love paid the price for sin, granting us direct access to God. The message in Hebrews 7:18 serves as a reminder that we live under a grace-filled gospel where salvation cannot be attained through our merit but is instead a gift freely given by God Himself.
This shift from the old to the new signifies immense hope and assurance. We can rest in the knowledge that our failures do not disqualify us from relationship with God. Instead, our reliance on Christ assures us of forgiveness and a continuous invitation to relationship. We are no longer held captive by an intricate system of laws but are freed to walk in love and relationship with our Savior.
In our daily lives, this understanding empowers us to act not out of obligation but out of gratitude. As Christians, we are called to follow Christ, not to meet a legalistic standard but to reflect love and grace, sharing this gift with others. We can take comfort that our relationship with God is not contingent upon our works but is secure in Jesus’ completed work on the cross.
Historical and Literary Context of Hebrews 7:18
The letter to the Hebrews was written to a community facing adversity and a potential return to their Jewish roots. In this period, many Christians experienced persecution, which raised doubts and fears about their faith. The author’s intent was to encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith, reminding them of the superiority of Christ’s sacrifice and the New Covenant it established. The focus of the letter presents Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.
In the context of the Old Covenant, the Levitical priesthood played a pivotal role in the religious life of Israel. The priests, descended from Aaron, were responsible for performing the sacrificial system, ensuring that the people adhered to the laws given through Moses. However, this system of priests and sacrifices was fundamentally limited because each sacrifice was temporary and could not permanently take away sins. The author of Hebrews contrasts this with Christ, who serves as our high priest from the order of Melchizedek—a figure noted for his superiority and eternal priesthood.
In summary, Hebrews 7:18 can be understood as a turning point in the literary framework of the letter. It reassures the original audience, and us today, that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation. By relinquishing the old ways, believers can now confidently embrace the new covenant where spiritual reconciliation and community with God are not only possible but guaranteed. This historical and literary background enriches our understanding of the significance of this verse.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Hebrews 7:18
To better grasp the significance of this verse, it can be helpful to break down its key components:
1. The Former Regulation
This refers to the Old Covenant laws, including the vast sacrificial system and regulations that God gave to Israel. They were meant to govern everyday life and provide a means to reconcile with God.
2. Set Aside
These words signify a deliberate shift in God’s plan for humanity. The previous system was no longer the primary means through which God’s people were to engage with Him.
3. Weak and Useless
This description emphasizes the limitations of the Old Covenant. While it served as a guide, it was ultimately insufficient to provide lasting redemption, proving that it could only outline the need for the true sacrifice that Jesus would offer.
Theological Significance of Hebrews 7:18
The theological implications of this verse resonate deeply with the core beliefs of Christianity. Understanding that the Old Covenant has been set aside demonstrates God’s faithfulness in providing a better way through Jesus. It confirms that we are saved not by our works but through faith in Christ alone. The passage invites us to reflect on the new reality of our relationship with God—one based not on regulations but on grace and love.
This theme of God’s grace permeates the entirety of biblical teaching. In Ephesians 2:8–9, it is stated, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” This reiteration of the necessity of grace aligns perfectly with the message of Hebrews 7:18. We are reminded that salvation is not earned by adherence to any law but is fully and freely given by God.
The promise of an eternal salvation that comes through Christ also signifies that God desires a relationship with us. The barriers that once existed due to sin have been removed, enabling us to approach God with confidence and assurance. This shifts our understanding of God from a distant figure demanding sacrifice to a loving Father inviting us into relationship.
Hebrews 7:18 Cross-References and Related Verses
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” – Matthew 16:24
This verse underscores the act of surrender as a central aspect of discipleship. Surrendering to Christ requires self-denial, an intentional choice to put aside our own desires, ambitions, and plans.
Taking up the cross symbolizes embracing the challenges and sacrifices that may come with following Jesus. This verse emphasizes that surrender is not passive but involves actively choosing to follow Christ, even when it requires personal sacrifice.
Romans 8:1
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 8:1
This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of living under the New Covenant. It reassures us that despite our past failures and sin, in Christ Jesus, we are free from condemnation. Our identity in Him is rooted in grace and mercy, which aligns with the promise of Hebrews 7:18.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
This verse reinforces the message of transformation that accompanies salvation. By being in Christ, we are made new, leaving behind the former ways that could not save us. This is directly tied to the understanding that the old regulation has indeed been set aside.
Practical Application of Hebrews 7:18
Understanding the implications of Hebrews 7:18 enables us to apply its truths to our daily lives. Here are a few practical applications:
1. Embrace Grace
We are called to accept and embrace the unmerited grace offered freely through Christ. Instead of striving for perfection, we can acknowledge our shortcomings and rest in the assurance that Jesus has already paid the price for our sins.
2. Live in Relationship
The New Covenant emphasizes intimacy with God. We should cultivate our relationship with Him through prayer, worship, and reading His Word, allowing it to shape our character and actions.
3. Share the Message
Recognizing that both believers and non-believers alike need the hope found in the New Covenant can motivate us to share this message of grace. We are agents of reconciliation, spreading the good news of Jesus to those who have yet to experience His love.
Reflection and Devotional Thought on Hebrews 7:18
As we contemplate Hebrews 7:18, we find ourselves faced with an invitation to reflect on the nature of our relationship with God. The words remind us of the freedom we have in Christ and how His sacrifice ushers in a new paradigm for living. Every day presents us with the choice of living under grace versus living under obligation. Let us choose to walk in freedom and love, trusting His promises and grace.
When we face challenges or moments of weakness, we can lean into God’s grace, knowing that He is greater than our shortcomings. His strength is made perfect in our weakness, and His grace sustains us even in our toughest times. As we grow, let’s commit to reflecting His light in this world—living as a new creation, free from the burdens of the old ways.
Ultimately, this passage serves as a gentle reminder of God’s unwavering love and the grace extended to us through Christ. May we be encouraged to live out the transformative power of this relationship, drawing others in with the hope we have found.
Final Thoughts
Hebrews 7:18 challenges us to understand the radical shift that comes through Jesus. The former regulation can no longer confine or define us. Instead, we are invited to live boldly in the freedom and grace of the New Covenant. As we engage with this truth and realize the weight it lifts from our shoulders, we begin to understand the depth of God’s mercy and the joy that accompanies a life lived in relationship with Him.
This passage encourages us to explore our faith more deeply and wholeheartedly. When we let go of the burdens of legalism and embrace the grace of God, we open ourselves up to a fuller, richer experience of His love and purpose in our lives. Explore more topics to deepen your faith, such as Psalms 116:1-7 or Isaiah 43:1-5, and let these truths continue to shape your journey of faith.