Read Hebrews 2:10–18
For this reason [Jesus] had to be made like his brothers in every
way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high
priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for
the sins of the people.
Hebrews 2:17
Jesus Christ is both merciful and faithful; He is merciful toward
people and faithful toward God. He can never fail in His priestly
ministries. He made the necessary sacrifice for our sins so that we
might be reconciled to God. He did not need to make a sacrifice for
Himself because He is sinless.
But what happens when we who have been saved are tempted
to sin? He stands ready to help us! He was tempted when He was on
earth, but no temptation conquered Him (Heb. 4:14–15). Because
He has defeated every enemy, He can give us the grace we need to
overcome temptation (v. 16). The word succour in the King James
Version (or help in the New International Version) in Hebrews 2:18
literally means “to run to the cry of a child.” It means “to bring help
when it is needed.” Angels are able to serve us (1:14), but they cannot
help us in our times of temptation. Only Jesus Christ can do that, and
He can do it because He became a man and suffered and died for us.
Something to Ponder
What are some specific ways that Jesus has been merciful to you lately?