2:17 he had to be made like his brothers. Only the One who had been tested in every way as we are could be the merciful High Priest (4:15; 5:2). Only the One who had responded to every test in perfect obedience could be the faithful High Priest, without sin (4:15; 7:26) and worthy to offer Himself as the unblemished sacrifice (9:14).

merciful and faithful high priest. This echoes the prophecy that pronounced judgment on Eli’s house, of Aaron’s family, and the coming of a faithful High Priest who would minister forever (1 Sam. 2:35). The faithfulness (3:6) and mercy of Christ (5:2) are explained in what follows.

make propitiation for. This term means that He bore God’s wrath and curse that rested on “the people” who sinned (Rom. 3:25, 26). See “Christ the Mediator” at 1 Tim. 2:5.