The Verse
King James Version (KJV): And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
New International Version (NIV): And free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.
English Standard Version (ESV): and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.
Introduction
Hebrews 2:15 brings a glorious message of hope and deliverance that resonates with every human heart. It speaks directly to our deepest fears, particularly the fear of death – a universal experience that holds many of us in invisible shackles. Yet, this verse assure us that Christ, through His death and resurrection, has conquered death and liberated us from this life-long fear.
This verse makes us ponder on the true nature of freedom, the power of Christ’s sacrifice and the transformative potential of faith in our daily lives. It assures us that we, through Christ, can live a life free from fear, experiencing the true joy and peace that comes from knowing Him.
Historical Context
The Epistle to the Hebrews, where this verse is found, is a New Testament book whose authorship is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, though it remains a topic of debate among scholars. Its intended audience were Jewish Christians who were familiar with Old Testament scriptures and concepts. The goal was to demonstrate that Christ is superior to angels, Moses and the Old Testament priesthood, and that His sacrifice is the perfect and final sacrifice, rendering the old system of law and sacrifices obsolete.
Key Word Analysis
The phrase ‘Fear of Death’ refers to the dread and anxiety associated with the unknown nature of death and what lies beyond. In Greek, the word for fear is ‘phobos’ from which we get the term ‘phobia’.
The word ‘Deliver’ in the original Greek is ‘apallasso’, which means to ‘free fully’, i.e., relieve, release, dismiss, let die, pardon, divorce, put away. It signifies a complete and final emancipation.
‘Lifetime bondage’ signifies the continuous and pervasive nature of the fear of death, how it can hold people captive and taint their entire lives.
Spiritual Insight
This verse conveys the message of Christ’s ultimate victory over death and the liberating power of His sacrifice. His resurrection not only assures us of eternal life, but also frees us from the crippling fear of death.
Life Application
Hebrews 2:15 calls us to live in the freedom Christ has purchased for us. By placing our faith in Him, we can overcome our fears and live a life of courage and hope. This verse encourages us to let go of our deepest fears and embrace the peace that comes from knowing Christ and His victory over death.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My dear child, I have conquered death so that you may live freely, unshackled by its fear. Live in the freedom I have won for you. Let not the fear of death rob you of the joy and peace I have promised. For in Me, you have eternal life.”
Prayer Prompt
Dear Lord, thank you for conquering death and freeing us from its fear. Help me to live in the freedom you have graciously given me, and to share this good news with others. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What does it mean to be held in slavery by the fear of death?
Ans: It refers to the paralyzing fear of death that can control our thoughts, actions and life decisions.
Ques: How can faith in Christ free us from the fear of death?
Ans: Faith in Christ and His resurrection assures us of eternal life. This assurance gives us confidence and frees us from the fear of death.
Ques: Is it wrong to fear death?
Ans: It’s natural to fear the unknown, but Christ offers us peace and assurance in the face of death.
Ques: How can I overcome my fear of death?
Ans: By placing your faith in Jesus, understanding His victory over death, and accepting the promise of eternal life with Him.
Related Verses
1 Corinthians 15:26: The last enemy to be destroyed is death.
John 11:25: Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies.”
Revelation 1:18: I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.
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