To the general assembly — The word properly signifies a stated convention on some festival occasion. And church — The whole body of true believers, whether on earth or in paradise. Of the first — born — The first — born of Israel were enrolled by Moses; but these are enrolled in heaven, as citizens there. It is observable, that in this beautiful gradation, these first — born are placed nearer to God than the angels. See James 1:18. And to God the Judge of all — Propitious to you, adverse to your enemies. And to the spirits — The separate souls. Of just men — It seems to mean, of New Testament believers. The number of these, being not yet large, is mentioned distinct from the innumerable company of just men whom their Judge hath acquitted. These are now made perfect in an higher sense than any who are still alive. Accordingly, St. Paul, while yet on earth, denies that he was thus made perfect, Philippians 3:12.
Related Commentaries of Hebrews 12:23
Hebrews 12:23
23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are writtenf in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,