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Verse Takeaways
1
Death Activates the Promise
Commentators explain that this verse uses a clear, real-world example: a last will and testament has no legal power until the person who made it has died. In the same way, the new covenant and its promised inheritance could only be put into effect through the death of its mediator, Jesus Christ. His death was the event that activated all of God's promises for believers.
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Book Overview
Hebrews
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Commentaries
7
Albert Barnes
On Hebrews 9:17
18th Century
Theologian
For a testament. Such an arrangement as God enters into with humanity. See the remarks on Hebrews 9:16.
Is of force. Is ra…
Charles Spurgeon
On Hebrews 9:16–17
19th Century
Preacher
For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise …
Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Hebrews 9:17
The author uses a technical legal term to indicate that the will (diatheke) is “in force only” when a death occurs. “It never takes effect” is anot…
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John Gill
On Hebrews 9:17
17th Century
Pastor
For a testament is of force after men are dead
The necessity of Christ's death is here urged, from the nature and fo…
Matthew Henry
On Hebrews 9:15–22
17th Century
Minister
The solemn transactions between God and humankind are sometimes called a covenant; in this specific context, it is a testament. A testament is a pe…