Hebrews 2:16

Modern

For surely it is not the angels He helps, but the descendants of Abraham.

Traditional

For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.

Literal

For surely it is not the angels He lays hold of, but He lays hold of the seed of Abraham.

Latin

Nusquam enim angelos apprehendit, sed semen Abrahæ apprehendit.

Greek

English

For surely it is not the angels He helps, but the descendants of Abraham.

descendants of Abraham: Jesus died on the cross for those who inherit God's promises to Abraham, not for the angels.

This passage suggests at least four reasons why the Son of God became human.

It was appropriate: It aligns with God's character to achieve salvation this way (Hebrews 2:10).
Jesus needed to become human to die (2:14).
According to Old Testament law, high priests had to be chosen from among God's people (2:17).
Jesus became a compassionate priest by experiencing human suffering and challenges (2:18).

Theme notes and profiles

Galatians 3:29
And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.
Galatians 3:16
The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. The Scripture does not say, “and to seeds,” meaning many, but “and to your seed,” meaning One, who is Christ.
Romans 4:16–25
Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may rest on grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring—not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all.
Genesis 22:18
And through your offspring all nations of the earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.”
Romans 2:25
Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.
Hebrews 6:16
Men swear by someone greater than themselves, and their oath serves as a confirmation to end all argument.
Hebrews 12:10
Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness.
1 Peter 1:20
He was known before the foundation of the world, but was revealed in the last times for your sake.
Matthew 1:1–17
This is the record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham:

Abraham: Patriarch, chosen by God to father His people