Christ as μεσίτης “Mediator” and ἔγγυος “Guarantor” in Hebrews: Reconfiguring Access, Assurance and Identity for the Audience under Socio-Religious Pressure

Abstract

This paper examines the dual christological roles of Jesus as μεσίτης (mediator) and ἔγγυος (guarantor) in the Epistle to the Hebrews, arguing that these titles provide the theological framework for the community’s perseverance under socio-religious pressure. Employing a historical-exegetical approach, the paper situates Hebrews within its first-century Jewish-Christian and Hellenistic context and offers lexical and thematic analysis of the key texts (Hebrews 7:22; 8:6; 9:15; and 12:24). The analysis demonstrates that Christ’s mediation establishes direct and confident access to God, while His guarantee secures the absolute assurance of salvation. Together, these christological roles redefine the believers’ covenantal identity, enabling them to resist the temptation to revert to the old covenant system. The study contributes to Hebrews scholarship by integrating pastoral and theological concerns, showing how the epistle’s portrayal of Jesus provides a comprehensive solution to the audience’s crisis of access, assurance, and identity.