Scripture · New Testament
Hebrews 9:17
Hebrews 9:17 is verse 17 of Hebrews chapter 9, shown here in the Berean Standard Bible.
Berean Standard Bible
because a will does not take effect until the one who made it has died; it cannot be executed while he is still alive.
King James Version
For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.
World English Bible
For a will is in force where there has been death, for it is never in force while he who made it lives.
Read in context
Hebrews 9:15–19 · Berean Standard Bible
15 Therefore Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, now that He has died to redeem them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.
16 In the case of a will, it is necessary to establish the death of the one who made it,
17 because a will does not take effect until the one who made it has died; it cannot be executed while he is still alive.
18 That is why even the first covenant was not put into effect without blood.
19 For when Moses had proclaimed every commandment of the law to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, along with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll and all the people,
Read all of Hebrews 9Greek words
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Cross-references
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge lists these related verses. Scripture text comes from the Berean Standard Bible.
Genesis 48:21Then Israel said to Joseph, “Look, I am about to die, but God will be with you and bring you back to the land of your fathers.
John 14:27Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.
Galatians 3:15Brothers, let me put this in human terms. Even a human covenant, once it is ratified, cannot be canceled or amended.