King James Version

What Does Hebrews 3:2 Mean?

Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. appointed: Gr. made

Context

1

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

2

Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. appointed: Gr. made

3

For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house.

4

For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(2) **Who was.**—Rather, *as being;* or *that He was. Not* merely, *fix your thought on Jesus;* but also (and especially), *think of Him as faithful* to God (Hebrews 2:17). **Appointed him.**—Literally, *made Him, *an expression which some ancient (Ambrose and other Latin fathers,—apparently also Athanasius) and many modern writers have understood as relating to the creation of the human nature of our Lord. It is probable, however, that 1Samuel 12:6 is in the writer’s mind. “It is the Lord that made Moses and Aaron, and that brought your fathers up out of the land of Egypt.” As there Samuel speaks of the raising up of Moses and Aaron, constituted by God deliverers of the people; so here our thought must rest on Him who constituted Jesus “Apostle and High Priest.” **As also Moses.**—These words, which give the key to the following verses, are quoted from Numbers 12:7, where Moses is placed in contrast with prophets in Israel to whom the Lord will make Himself known by vision or dream. “My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house. With him will I speak mouth to mouth.” The “house” or household is God’s. people Israel. To others will God reveal Himself in various ways in regard to the many parts of the house, the many concerns of the household. Throughout the whole house Moses was the recipient of the divine commands, and was faithful—“faithful” (as one of the Targums paraphrases), “as chief of the chiefs of my court.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hebrews 3:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Hebrews 3:2

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