Hebrews 2:13 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 2:13 mean?

Hebrews 2:13 shows someone expressing trust in God and identifying closely with the people God has given him. The verse highlights both a personal reliance on God and a sense of unity with others who belong to God.

In Hebrews 2:13, the writer is quoting Old Testament passages to show how Jesus, in his humanity, trusted God and stood together with those God gave him—meaning his followers. The context is about Jesus not being distant or ashamed of those he came to save, but instead sharing in their experience and dependence on God.

The Greek behind Hebrews 2:13

• The word "trust" (πεποιθήσω, pepoithēsō) is about placing confidence or reliance in someone. Here, it underscores how Jesus, as a human, fully depended on God the Father.
• The word "children" (παιδία, paidia) refers to young children or those under someone's care. This highlights the close, family-like relationship between Jesus and those given to him by God.
• The phrase "given me" (δέδωκέν μοι, dedōken moi) points to a gift or assignment from God, emphasizing that Jesus receives his followers as a trust from God, not by his own claim.

Why Hebrews 2:13 matters

• Hebrews 2:13 helps clear up the idea that Jesus was somehow separate from humanity; instead, it shows he fully shared in human trust and dependence on God.
• The verse emphasizes Jesus’ solidarity with those he saves, showing that he stands with them as family, not as a distant figure.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by supporting the argument that Jesus is both truly human and truly able to represent people before God.