King James Version

What Does Hebrews 3:2 Mean?

Hebrews 3:2 in the King James Version says “Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. appointed: Gr. made — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Hebrews 3:2 · KJV


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

KJV Study Commentary
Christ's faithfulness to God matches Moses' faithfulness (Numbers 12:7), but with a crucial difference established in verse 3. The term 'appointed' (Greek 'poiesanti') shows both were divinely commissioned. Faithfulness is the essential qualification for ministry—reliability and trustworthiness in executing God's purposes.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Moses' faithfulness was legendary in Judaism, making him the highest human standard. The author grants Moses full honor while preparing to show Christ's greater glory as Son versus servant.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what areas of your life has God appointed you, and are you proving faithful?
  2. How does Christ's perfect faithfulness give you confidence in God's promises?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
πιστὸν1 of 13

faithful

G4103

objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful

ὄντα2 of 13

Who was

G5607

being

τῷ3 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ποιήσαντι4 of 13

to him that appointed

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

αὐτοῦ5 of 13

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ὡς6 of 13

as

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

καὶ7 of 13

also

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

Μωσῆς8 of 13

Moses

G3475

moseus, moses, or mouses (i.e., mosheh), the hebrew lawgiver

ἐν9 of 13

was faithful in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ὅλῳ10 of 13

all

G3650

"whole" or "all", i.e., complete (in extent, amount, time or degree), especially (neuter) as noun or adverb

τῷ11 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

οἴκῳ12 of 13

house

G3624

a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)

αὐτοῦ13 of 13

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


Study Guide

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 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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