“For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.”
For a will takes effect only at death, since it is not in force as long as the one who made it is alive — the principle of testamentary law establishes why the death of Jesus was soteriologically essential. His death inaugurates the new covenant just as death activates a will; life under the old covenant continues until the testator dies.
Church Fathers on Hebrews 9:17
It was probable that many of those who were more weakly would especially distrust the promises of Christ because He had died. Paul accordingly out of a superabundance introduced this illustration, deriving it from common custom. Of what kind is it? He says, “indeed, on this very account we ought to be of good courage.” On what account? Because testaments are established and obtain their force when those who have made them are not living, but dead. “And for this cause,” he…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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