¹⁷ For this reason he had to be made like them,^[a](A) fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful^(B) and faithful high priest^(C) in service to God,^(D) and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.^{(E) 18} Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.^(F)

² He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray,^(A) since he himself is subject to weakness.^(B)