Hebrews 2:17 Meaning: Why Christ Had to Be Made Like His Brothers

Three Greek words give the verse its weight. First, the verb behind “it behoved him” (ōpheilen) carries the force of moral obligation. This was not something Jesus happened to do; he owed it to his role as helper of his people. Second, “to be made like” (homoiōthēnai) means to be fully assimilated, not just looking human but sharing the same nature, weaknesses included, though not sin. It is the same word used in Philippians 2 for taking on the likeness of men. Third, the phrase “to make atonement” (hilaskesthai) is rich: it means to make propitiation, to pacify wrath, to expiate sin. In the Old Testament, the high priest made atonement by offering blood on the altar. Here, Christ himself becomes both priest and offering. Together these words show that becoming like us was not a small step; it was the only way he could carry out the mercy and faithfulness required for the job.

Christians across traditions agree that this verse teaches the necessity of the incarnation for Christ’s high priestly work. Reformed readers such as Calvin highlight the sequence: Christ became compassionate because he suffered, and faithful because he actually made atonement. Wesleyan interpreters like Adam Clarke emphasize that the high priest must be merciful toward sinners and faithful toward God, and Jesus fulfills both by sharing our nature. The Cambridge Bible notes that in first-century Judaism, the priesthood had become cold and corrupt; the idea of a merciful priest was nearly lost. So Hebrews presents Christ as the true high priest who combines mercy and truth. On the nature of atonement, some traditions (especially those emphasizing penal substitution) stress propitiation as turning away divine wrath, while others focus on reconciliation. Both sides see Christ’s humanity as essential for representing us before God.

Some think that because Jesus was made like us “in all things,” he must have shared our sinfulness. In fact, the context makes clear that he partook of flesh and blood and suffered temptation, but the commentaries consistently note that sin is not part of the “all things” required for his mission. He was without sin, yet fully identified with us in every other way, in body, mind, emotions, and suffering. The likeness is complete in nature, not in moral failure.

This week, when you feel distant from God, because of failure, doubt, or plain exhaustion, remember that you have a high priest who knows what it is like to be you. He does not watch your struggles from a distance. He entered them. You can approach him with honesty, not pretending to be stronger than you are. He is merciful toward you and faithful toward God on your behalf. Let that change the way you pray. Instead of hiding, tell him exactly where it hurts. He is ready to help.