Lexical Summary ekdoché: Expectation, reception Original Word: ἐκδοχή Strong's Exhaustive Concordance expectationFrom ekdechomai; expectation -- looking foreign see GREEK ekdechomai HELPS Word-studies 1561 ekdo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom ekdechomai Definition a receiving from, expectation NASB Translation expectation (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1561: ἐκδοχήἐκδοχή, ἐκδοχης, ἡ (ἐκδέχομαι), the act or manner of receiving from; hence, in secular authors. 1. reception. 2. succession. 3. (a taking in a certain sense, i. e.) interpretation. 4. once in the sacred writings, expectation, awaiting (cf. ἐκδέχομαι, 2): Hebrews 10:27. ἐκδοχή portrays an intense waiting that is saturated with dread. Unlike the neutral “expectation” that may accompany hope, this term carries the notion of impending doom for those who have rejected or abandoned the only sufficient sacrifice for sins. Old Testament Background The Hebrew Scriptures repeatedly join anticipation with divine retribution. Images such as the “consuming fire” on Mount Sinai (Exodus 24:17), the “burning anger” foretold against covenant-breakers (Deuteronomy 32:35-36), and the fiery chariots that execute judgment (Isaiah 66:15-16) prepare the theological soil for the New Testament author’s single use of ἐκδοχή. Each passage teaches that covenant privilege heightens, rather than lessens, liability when the covenant is trampled underfoot. New Testament Context Other Greek words express eager or hopeful waiting (e.g., ἀποκαραδοκία in Romans 8:19; προσδοκάω in Luke 3:15), but only ἐκδοχή is reserved for the fearful prospect of judgment. Its singular appearance emphasizes the sobriety of the warning in Hebrews 10, a section that addresses professing believers tempted to turn back from Christ to the shadow-ministrations of the old covenant. Detailed Exegetical Insight into Hebrews 10:27 Hebrews 10:26-31 warns that deliberate, persistent sin after receiving “the knowledge of the truth” forfeits the benefits of Christ’s once-for-all offering. Verse 27 states: “but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God”. Key observations: Theological Themes 1. Covenant Responsibility: Greater revelation intensifies accountability (Hebrews 10:28-29). Pastoral and Ministry Application • Evangelism: ἐκδοχή underscores the urgency of repentance. A gospel presentation that omits judgment fails to mirror biblical balance (John 3:36). Homiletical and Discipleship Use Sermons on Hebrews 10 may trace three movements: 1. Privilege Received (verses 19-25) Small-group guides can pair the passage with narratives of judgment (Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5) and restoration (Peter after his denial), illustrating both the severity and mercy of God. Potential Questions for Study and Meditation • How does the certainty of judgment refine our understanding of grace? In sum, ἐκδοχή in Hebrews 10:27 serves as a solemn bell that tolls throughout redemptive history, reminding every reader that the living God will vindicate His holiness. The passage invites sober reflection, steadfast faith, and fervent ministry before the Day arrives. |
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