So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.
Ver. 5. Glorified not himself] As the pope doth, who will needs be styled Pontifex maximus, the greatest high priest (whereas Christ is called only the great, and not greatest high priest, Heb 4:14). Pope Hildebrand especially, whom when no man would advance to Peter's chair, he went up himself. Quis enim melius de me iudicare potest quam ego? said he, Who can better judge of me than myself? (Heidfeld.)
But he that said unto him] He glorified him, or made him high priest.
Today have I begotten thee] Add the words following, "Ask of me," &c., and the sense is full. For to ask of God those things that pertain to the people's safety and salvation, is the proper office of a high priest. Christ as he expiated his people's sins by his own blood, so he made intercession for them, 1. A little before his attachment, John 17:1,2, &c., 2. In the very time when the sacrifice was hanged, Luke 23:34. Luke 23:3. In the heavenly sanctuary, Hebrews 9:24 .