And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

HEBREWS 9:15KJV
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Hebrews 9:15 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 9:15 mean?

Hebrews 9:15 says that Jesus is the mediator of a new covenant, and through his death, he brings redemption for the wrongs committed under the first covenant, so that those who are called can receive the promise of an eternal inheritance. This verse explains how Jesus’ sacrifice makes it possible for people to be forgiven and to receive what God has promised forever.

The writer of Hebrews is addressing Jewish Christians who are familiar with the old covenant given through Moses. The verse highlights that Jesus’ role as mediator means he stands between God and people, making a new agreement possible. The focus is on how Jesus’ death deals with sins that were not fully resolved under the old system, opening the way for lasting blessings.

The Greek behind Hebrews 9:15

  • διαθήκη (diathēkē) — "testament" or "covenant": This word can mean both a legal will and a binding agreement. Here, it emphasizes that the new relationship with God is based on Jesus’ sacrifice, not on the old laws.
  • μεσίτης (mesitēs) — "mediator": This term means someone who stands in the middle to bring two parties together. The verse stresses that Jesus is the one who makes peace between God and humanity.
  • λύτρωσις (lytrōsis) — "redemption": This word refers to being set free by paying a price. The verse points out that Jesus’ death is the payment that brings release from past sins.
  • κληρονομία (klēronomia) — "inheritance": This means what is passed down or promised to heirs. The verse assures readers that what God promises—eternal life and blessing—is now available because of Jesus.

Why Hebrews 9:15 matters

  • Hebrews 9:15 clarifies that forgiveness and God’s promises are not earned by following the old covenant’s rules but are given through Jesus’ death.
  • The verse helps readers see that Jesus’ role is not just as a teacher or example, but as the one who actually secures redemption and inheritance for believers.
  • This verse connects the old and new covenants, showing that Jesus’ sacrifice fulfills what the old system could only point toward, and assures those who trust in him that God’s promises are now available to them.

Where else these words appear

“mediator” Greek G3316 · used in 6 verses

  • Galatians 3:19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
  • Galatians 3:20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
  • Hebrews 8:6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.

“transgressions” Greek G3847 · used in 7 verses

  • Romans 2:23 Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God?
  • Romans 5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
  • 1 Timothy 2:14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.

“redemption” Greek G629 · used in 10 verses

  • Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
  • Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

“inheritance” Greek G2817 · used in 14 verses

  • Matthew 21:38 But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.
  • Acts 7:5 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.
  • Ephesians 1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,