New Testament

Hebrews 7:18

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Hebrews 7:18, the author discusses the need to set aside the old commandment, which refers to the Mosaic Law.

Author: Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
Written: Around AD 60-70
Genre: Letter and sermon
Original Audience: Jewish Christians

CBTClear Bible Translation

For indeed, there is a setting aside of the previous commandment because it is weak and unprofitable.

KJVKing James Version

For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Hebrews 7:18, the author discusses the need to set aside the old commandment, which refers to the Mosaic Law. This law is described as weak and unprofitable, meaning it could not bring about true righteousness or salvation. The context suggests that the old covenant, with its sacrifices and rituals, was insufficient for achieving a relationship with God. Instead, the author points to the new covenant established through Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and offers a better way to connect with God. This verse emphasizes the transition from the old system to a new one that provides hope and effectiveness in spiritual matters. The weakness of the old commandment highlights the necessity for a new approach to faith and worship, one that is rooted in grace and the power of Christ's sacrifice.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Hebrews 7:18 to your life

Understanding that the old laws are set aside helps us appreciate the grace offered through Christ. We should focus on building our relationship with God through faith and the teachings of Jesus, rather than relying on outdated rituals or rules that do not lead to true spiritual growth.

Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Hebrews 7:18 mean?

Hebrews 7:18 explains that the old commandment, referring to the Mosaic Law, is set aside because it is weak and unprofitable. This indicates that the law could not provide true righteousness or salvation, leading to the establishment of a new covenant through Jesus.

What is the meaning of 'weak and unprofitable' in Hebrews 7:18?

In Hebrews 7:18, 'weak and unprofitable' describes the old commandment's inability to bring about true spiritual fulfillment or righteousness. It emphasizes that the old covenant's sacrifices and rituals were insufficient for a genuine relationship with God.

How does Hebrews 7:18 relate to the New Covenant?

Hebrews 7:18 relates to the New Covenant by illustrating that the old commandment is set aside due to its weaknesses. This sets the stage for understanding how Jesus fulfills the law and provides a better means of achieving a relationship with God.

Why is the old commandment considered 'set aside' in Hebrews 7:18?

The old commandment is considered 'set aside' in Hebrews 7:18 because it was ineffective in providing true righteousness and salvation. The verse emphasizes the necessity of a new approach to faith through Jesus Christ.

Book Summary

The Book of Hebrews

Hebrews 1: The Son Above the Angels

God, who formerly spoke through the prophets in many ways, has now spoken through His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things and through whom He made the worlds. The Son is the brightness of God's glory and the express image of His person, upholding all things by His power, and after purging sins He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. The writer proves through Scripture that the Son is far greater than the angels: He is called the Son of God, receives worship from the angels, possesses an eternal throne, and laid the foundations of the earth, while angels are ministering spirits sent to serve the heirs of salvation.

Hebrews 2: Do Not Neglect So Great Salvation The writer warns believers to give earnest heed to the message they have heard, for if former disobedience received judgment, how shall anyone escape who neglects so great salvation confirmed by the Lord, the apostles, and signs from God. Though man was made lower than the angels for a time, all things are ultimately placed under him, fulfilled perfectly in Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for the suffering of death and crowned with glory and honour. By taking on flesh and blood, Christ destroyed the power of the devil through His death and delivered those who lived in fear of death. He became like His brethren in all things so He could be a merciful and faithful high priest, able to help those who are tempted. Hebrews 3: Christ Greater Than Moses The writer calls believers to consider Christ Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest of their profession, who was faithful to God just as Moses was faithful in his house. Yet Christ is counted worthy of greater glory, for Moses served as a servant in God's house, while Christ is the Son over His own house. The readers are warned not to harden their hearts as Israel did in the wilderness when they provoked God through unbelief. Because of their hardened hearts and unbelief, that generation failed to enter God's rest. Believers are exhorted to encourage one another daily and hold fast their confidence unto the end.

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