Hebrews 2:11

Jesus like His Brothers · Hebrews 2:5–18
Read Hebrews 2

Translations

Modern
For both the One who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.
Traditional
For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,
Literal
For both the One sanctifying and those being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brothers,
Latin
Qui enim sanctificat, et qui sanctificantur, ex uno omnes. Propter quam causam non confunditur fratres eos vocare, dicens:

Original

Greek
English
For both the One who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.

Notes

  • of the same family (literally are all out of one): In this context, "Father" likely refers to God. However, the author might have been thinking of Abraham as a shared ancestor (see Hebrews 2:16) or of human nature as a shared experience (out of one nature).

  • brothers: The Greek word adelphoi is a general term for family members, both male and female.

This passage suggests at least four reasons why the Son of God became human.

  1. It was appropriate: It aligns with God's character to achieve salvation this way (Hebrews 2:10).

  2. Jesus needed to become human to die (2:14).

  3. According to Old Testament law, high priests had to be chosen from among God's people (2:17).

  4. Jesus became a compassionate priest by experiencing human suffering and challenges (2:18).

Theme notes and profiles

The Superiority of the Son

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Congregation Firstborn Hebrews, Letter to the Passion

Topics

Adoption: Saints Become Brethren of Christ By Afflictions and Adversities: Design of Brother: A Fraternal Epithet, Especially Among Christians--Instituted by Christ Condescension of God: Scriptures Relating To Fellowship with Christ Jesus, the Christ: Incarnation of Jesus, the Christ: Love of Sanctification: Effected by Christ Sanctification: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To The Trinity: Each Person In, Described as Sanctifier