Hebrews 9:17
French (BFC) 1997 (Bible en Français Courant)
En effet, un testament n'a pas d'effet tant que son auteur est en vie; il est valide seulement après la mort de celui-ci.
What Does This Mean?
This verse explains that a will or testament only becomes effective after the person who made it (the testator) has died. It's not in effect while they are still alive. The writer of Hebrews is explaining this to illustrate a point about the effectiveness of covenants and promises.
Explained for Children
Imagine you promise your friend that when you grow up, you'll share all your toys with them. But right now, you're just a kid playing with those toys. You can't give away what you still need yourself until it's time. It's like waiting for the big moment to come true!
Historical Background
This verse is from the Book of Hebrews, written by an unknown author around 60-95 AD. The audience was likely Jewish Christians who were struggling with their identity and practices in a predominantly Gentile Christian community. It explains concepts familiar within both Jewish and Greek legal traditions.
Living It Out Today
In modern terms, consider someone making changes to their company's leadership roles posthumously through a will. Until they pass away, these designations aren’t active; the current team continues operating under existing rules.
Topics
covenantspromiseswill and testamentlegal agreementsdeath and life transitionsfaithfulness
Related Verses
Numbers 27:8-11Deuteronomy 31:9-13Luke 24:44-49Galatians 3:15-18Jeremiah 32:6-15
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main point of Hebrews 9:17?
The main point is that a testament or will only takes effect after the death of the testator, emphasizing its irreversible nature and the seriousness of posthumous commitments.
Why does this verse mention 'testament' in relation to Jesus?
This verse uses legal terminology familiar to both Jewish and Greek cultures to explain that just as a will takes effect after death, so did the new covenant initiated by Christ become effective through his sacrifice.
How does this relate to the audience of Hebrews?
The audience was probably struggling with understanding their transition from the old covenant to the new one. This verse helped clarify that Jesus' sacrifice brought a new, final testament into effect.
What cultural context helps understand 'testament is of force after men are dead'?
Understanding ancient legal traditions where wills were only considered valid posthumously provides insight. This was true in both Jewish and Greek legal systems at the time, making it a relatable concept.