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"To make propitiation for the sins of the people."

Text: Hebrews 2:17

THE DOCTRINE OF “SIN”

The subject of “sin” is carefully taught in the Scriptures. The Gospels presented John as the forerunner of Jesus! His sole message was “repentance from sin”. All the New Testament epistles touch on the subject of sin. Obviously the issue of sin is so prominent that so much time and energy had to be devoted to discuss this doctrine.

PROPITIATION FOR SINS

The author of Hebrews also had a very strong understanding of the doctrine of sin. He presents Jesus as the One whom God had sent

“To make propitiation for the sins of the people.”
Hebrews 2:17d

1. “The sins of the people”

a) The fact of sin is acknowledged.

b) Multiple sins are borne in mind.

c) Man has sinned grievously against God.

2. “To make propitiation” (hilaskethai)

a) The infinitive verb is used here to indicate purpose.

b) Jesus came with a definite sense of purpose.

c) He had come with the purpose of making propitiation for the sins of mankind.

3. “Things pertaining to God”

a) Man often has a “soft view” of sin.

b) He thinks of sin as mere misdeeds.

c) Jesus the High Priest came to teach otherwise.

i) Sin is heinous in God’s sight.

ii) Sin is not easily forgiven.

iii) Sin requires God’s wrath and His justice to be propitiated.

iv) It would take the death of Jesus to make propitiation for our sins.