Verse 20
Elsewhere John and Peter called Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd (John 10:14) and the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4). Here He is the Great Shepherd, greater than any in Judaism. This is another expression of Jesus’ superiority over the Mosaic system.
"As the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ died for the sheep (John 10:11). As the Great Shepherd, He lives for the sheep in heaven today, working on their behalf. As the Chief Shepherd, He will come for the sheep at His return (1 Peter 5:4). Our Shepherd cares for His own in the past, present, and future. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!" [Note: Wiersbe, 2:330.]
Likewise the "eternal covenant" is the New Covenant in contrast to the temporary Old Covenant. Jesus’ blood (death) was superior to animal blood (death) offered under the Old Covenant. This pastoral prayer brings the sermon to its conclusion. Many of the emphases expounded in the epistle come together in this benediction: peace, resurrection and ascension, shepherding, blood, covenant, Jesus, and glory.
Be the first to react on this!
