Hebrews 1:12

Berean Standard Bible
You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed; but You remain the same, and Your years will never end.”
 
King James Bible
And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail.
 
NET Bible
and like a robe you will fold them up and like a garment they will be changed, but you are the same and your years will never run out."
 
Greek text:
καὶ ὡσεὶ περιβόλαιον ἑλίξεις αὐτοὺς καὶ ἀλλαγήσονται, σὺ δὲ ὁ αὐτὸς εἶ καὶ τὰ ἔτη σου οὐκ ἐκλείψουσιν.
 
Transliteration:
kai hōsei peribolaion helixeis autous kai allagēsonai, su de ho autos ei kai ta etē sou ouk ekleipsousin.
 
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Study Bible:
 
like a robe
The imagery of a robe in this verse is significant, as it conveys the idea of something that is worn and can be changed or replaced. In the ancient world, a robe was a garment that signified status, identity, and sometimes authority. The Greek word used here, "περιβόλαιον" (peribolaion), suggests something that envelops or covers. This metaphor highlights the transient nature of creation compared to the eternal nature of God. Just as a robe can be taken off and replaced, so can the heavens and the earth be changed by God, emphasizing His sovereignty and unchanging nature.
 
You will roll them up
The phrase "You will roll them up" uses the imagery of rolling up a scroll, which was a common practice in the ancient world. The Greek word "ἑλίσσω" (helissō) means to roll or coil. This action signifies the ease and authority with which God can bring about change in the created order. It reflects the power of God to transform and renew creation according to His divine will. The rolling up of the heavens and the earth points to the eschatological renewal that God will bring about, as prophesied in the Scriptures.
 
like a garment
The comparison to a garment further emphasizes the temporary and changeable nature of the physical universe. The Greek word "ἱμάτιον" (himation) refers to an outer garment or cloak. This metaphor suggests that just as garments wear out and are replaced, so too will the current creation be transformed. It underscores the contrast between the perishable nature of the world and the imperishable nature of God. This serves as a reminder of the hope believers have in the new creation promised by God.
 
they will be changed
The phrase "they will be changed" speaks to the transformative power of God. The Greek word "ἀλλάσσω" (allassō) means to change or alter. This change is not merely a destruction but a transformation into something new and better. It reflects the biblical theme of renewal and restoration, where God will make all things new. This promise of change provides hope and assurance to believers that God's ultimate plan is one of redemption and renewal.
 
But You remain the same
This phrase highlights the immutability of God. While creation is subject to change and decay, God remains constant and unchanging. The Greek word "διαμένω" (diamenō) means to remain or continue. This attribute of God assures believers of His faithfulness and reliability. In a world that is constantly changing, the unchanging nature of God provides a firm foundation for faith and trust.
 
and Your years will never end
The eternal nature of God is emphasized in this phrase. The Greek word "ἐκλείπω" (ekleipō) means to fail or come to an end. In contrast, God's years will never end, highlighting His eternal existence. This assurance of God's eternal nature provides comfort and hope to believers, knowing that the God they serve is everlasting and His promises are sure. It reinforces the message of God's sovereignty and the eternal hope found in Him.
 
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Commentary:
 
Context and Background
Hebrews 1 begins by explaining how God has spoken to humanity through prophets in the past, but in these last days, He has spoken to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. The author of Hebrews quotes several Old Testament passages to support the argument that Jesus is superior to angels and that He is, in fact, divine.
 
Analysis of Hebrews 1:12
Hebrews 1:12 is a quotation from Psalm 102:25-27, which speaks of God's eternal nature. The author of Hebrews uses this passage to highlight the permanence and immutability of Christ in contrast to the created order.
 
"Like a mantle You will roll them up": A mantle, or cloak, is something that can be folded and put away. This imagery suggests that the heavens and the earth, which seem so permanent to us, are temporary and can be changed by God with ease. It emphasizes God's sovereignty over creation.
 
"Like a garment they will also be changed": Just as clothes wear out and are replaced, the creation will undergo transformation. This could be understood as a reference to the new heavens and the new earth described in Revelation.
 
"But You are the same": In stark contrast to the changeable nature of creation, God remains unchanging. This speaks to His eternal and unalterable nature.
 
"And Your years will not come to an end": This phrase underscores the everlasting existence of God. Unlike the created order, which has a beginning and an end, God’s existence is infinite.
 
Theological Significance
The verse highlights several key theological concepts:
 
Immutability of God: God does not change. His character, purposes, and promises remain constant.
 
Transience of Creation: The physical universe is temporary and subject to change, unlike the eternal nature of God.
 
Eternality of Christ: By applying this Psalm to Christ, the author of Hebrews affirms His divinity and eternal existence.
 
Practical Application
For believers, this verse offers comfort and assurance. It reminds us that while the world around us is ever-changing and often uncertain, God remains steadfast and unchanging. This steadfastness is a foundation for faith, providing confidence in God's promises and His eternal plan.
 
In summary, Hebrews 1:12 uses vivid imagery to contrast the mutable nature of creation with the immutable, eternal nature of God. It underscores the divine nature of Christ, offering believers a source of assurance and hope. This passage is a powerful reminder of the unchanging character of God amidst the transient nature of the world.