The Verse
King James Version (KJV): For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
New International Version (NIV): (for the law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.
English Standard Version (ESV): (for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God.
Introduction
The book of Hebrews is a profound narrative that encourages us to see beyond the limitations of human laws and to embrace the transformative power of hope. It’s a call to anchor our faith not in human traditions, but in the divine grace that introduces a better hope — a hope that draws us closer to God. This verse, Hebrews 7:19, encapsulates this message in a deeply moving way.
Historical Context
The book of Hebrews does not directly reveal its author, but it’s traditionally attributed to Paul. It was likely written between 60-70 AD for Jewish Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament and Mosaic Law. Its purpose was to demonstrate the superiority of Christ’s priesthood and the new covenant He introduced over the old Mosaic Law. The verse in question further illustrates the limitations of the law and the promise of a better hope through Christ.
Key Word Analysis
Law: In the original Greek text, the term used is “nomos” referring to the Mosaic Law, the set of religious laws and ethical instructions God gave to the people of Israel through Moses.
Perfect: The word “perfect” here is translated from the Greek “teleioō” meaning to bring to an end, to complete, or to accomplish. It implies the law was incapable of bringing about complete righteousness or spiritual wholeness.
Better Hope: The term “better hope” implies a superior, more effective means of attaining righteousness and a closer relationship with God, introduced through Christ.
Spiritual Insight
This verse reveals that while the law was important, it was not capable of making us perfect or drawing us near to God. It underscores the supremacy of Jesus Christ, who introduced a better hope. Through faith in Jesus, we are granted direct access to God, no longer reliant on the law but on the grace and mercy of Christ.
Life Application
In our daily life, we should remember that perfection doesn’t come from following rules but from placing our faith and hope in Jesus. We should strive to draw near to God, not through self-righteous acts but by embracing the grace He offers through Christ. The law can guide us, but only Christ can bring us to God.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
“My beloved, understand that your perfection is not achieved through the law, but through the hope I offer. Trust in me and draw near to the Father. Do not rely on your own works, but on the grace that God bestows through faith. Remember, I am the way, the truth, and the life.”
Prayer Prompt
Lord, we thank You for the better hope introduced through Jesus. Help us to rely not merely on laws but on faith in Christ, drawing us closer to You each day. Thank you for Your endless grace. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What does the phrase “better hope” mean?
Ans: The phrase “better hope” refers to the superior promise brought about by faith in Christ, which brings us into a closer relationship with God, something the law couldn’t achieve.
Ques: Why does the verse say the law made nothing perfect?
Ans: The law was incapable of making anyone perfect because it couldn’t cleanse our hearts or change our nature. Only grace through faith in Christ can do that.
Ques: How do we draw near to God according to this verse?
Ans: According to this verse, we draw near to God through the hope introduced by Jesus Christ. This means through faith in Him and His work on the cross.
Ques: Is the law irrelevant then?
Ans: The law isn’t irrelevant; it serves as a guide. But it’s not our means to righteousness. Our righteousness comes from Christ.
Related Verses
Romans 3:20: Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.
Hebrews 10:22: let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings.
Galatians 3:24: So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith.
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