What is the meaning of Hebrews 10:38? But The conjunction signals a contrast with the warning just given about willful sin (Hebrews 10:26-31). • The writer pivots from judgment to encouragement—God has something different for those who belong to Him. • This “but” mirrors earlier contrasts in Hebrews (e.g., 4:15; 6:9), showing that even amid sober warnings, God always provides a hopeful path. • Cross reference: 1 Corinthians 10:13—God “will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it”, underscoring His desire for perseverance, not destruction. My righteous one God claims the believer as His own. • “Righteous” speaks of those declared right with God through faith in Christ (Romans 3:22-24; 2 Corinthians 5:21). • The personal pronoun “My” stresses covenant relationship; believers are treasured possessions (1 Peter 2:9). • Cross reference: Isaiah 43:1—“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine”. Will live by faith A direct quotation of Habakkuk 2:4, also echoed in Romans 1:17 and Galatians 3:11. • Faith is not merely the starting point of salvation; it is the ongoing means of life. • “Live” covers: – Daily dependence on God’s promises (Proverbs 3:5-6). – Enduring trials with confidence (James 1:2-4). – Looking forward to Christ’s return (Hebrews 9:28). • Cross reference: Hebrews 11:6—“Without faith it is impossible to please God”, tying life and faith inseparably. And if he shrinks back The sober alternative: retreat under pressure. • “Shrink back” pictures drawing away from open allegiance to Christ, whether through persecution, temptation, or apathy. • Warnings in Hebrews reinforce the danger (3:12; 6:4-6; 10:26-27). • Jesus’ own words echo the thought: “No one who puts his hand to the plow and then looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). • Practical signs of shrinking back can include: – Neglecting fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). – Silencing witness out of fear (Matthew 10:32-33). – Returning to former sins (2 Peter 2:20-22). I will take no pleasure in him God’s attitude is clear: He delights in steadfast faith, not retreat. • Divine displeasure is relational, not capricious; it stems from holiness offended by distrust. • Psalm 147:11: “The LORD delights in those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion.” Faith brings pleasure; unbelief withdraws it. • Hebrews 11:5-6 links God’s pleasure with walking by faith, using Enoch as an example. • The statement underscores accountability: choices matter eternally (Matthew 25:21 vs. 25:30). summary Hebrews 10:38 sets two paths side by side. God calls His “righteous one” to a life marked by continuous trust—resting in the finished work of Christ and pressing forward in obedience. Turning back, whether through fear or compromise, forfeits the Lord’s delight and invites judgment. The verse urges believers to plant both feet firmly in faith, confident that God takes pleasure in those who persevere. |
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