This research paper by Caleb Johnson, submitted to Dr. Scott Swain for ST5200 – Systematic Theology 2 at Reformed Theological Seminary – Orlando, explores the theological and pastoral implications of Hebrews 4:15 in relation to Christ’s sympathy for believers. Johnson argues that the author of Hebrews presents Christ’s sympathy not as a continuation of his suffering in glory, but as the compassionate application of his once-for-all accomplished suffering.
Through lexical and exegetical analysis of the verb “sympathēsai,” and dialogue with theologians such as Thomas Goodwin, John Owen, and B. B. Warfield, the paper distinguishes between Christ’s finished work of atonement and his ongoing intercession. Johnson maintains that Christ’s humanity enables him to sympathize fully without implying that he continues to suffer. Rather, his sympathy expresses his present priestly care as one who has triumphed over temptation and now aids his people from the right hand of God.
The paper concludes that Hebrews 4:15 calls believers to approach the throne of grace with confidence, assured that Christ’s sympathy is rooted in his completed suffering and perfected compassion, not in any ongoing pain or affliction.
Course and semester: ST5200 Systematic Theology 2 — Spring 2021
