What is the meaning of Hebrews 9:28? So also Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many - “So also Christ was offered once” (Hebrews 9:28) draws a sharp contrast with the repeated animal sacrifices of the Old Covenant. The once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus is final and sufficient (Hebrews 7:27; 10:10). - “To bear the sins of many” echoes Isaiah 53:12, where the Suffering Servant “bore the sin of many.” At Calvary, Jesus carried the full weight of our guilt (1 Peter 3:18), securing complete atonement for everyone who trusts Him. - Because His work is finished, no additional sacrifice is required—only faith in the completed work of the cross (John 19:30). He will appear a second time - The Savior who once came in humility will return in glory (Acts 1:11; Revelation 1:7). - His second appearing is certain and visible; believers live in confident expectation (John 14:3). - This promise motivates holy living and hope amid trials (1 John 3:2-3). Not to bear sin - Christ’s first coming dealt decisively with sin; there is nothing left to atone for (Hebrews 10:12-14). - At His return, He will not repeat the sacrifice—its efficacy is eternal (Romans 6:9-10). - Thus, believers rest in the unchanging sufficiency of His once-offered blood. But to bring salvation - “To bring salvation” points to the final, full deliverance of God’s people—resurrection bodies, glorification, and the new creation (Romans 8:23; 1 Peter 1:5). - What was purchased at the cross will be publicly unveiled when He comes (1 Thessalonians 1:10). - The Judge of all will vindicate His own and wipe away every tear (Revelation 21:4). To those who eagerly await Him - True believers are characterized by anticipation, “eagerly waiting” like citizens longing for the return of their king (Philippians 3:20; Titus 2:13). - This longing shapes priorities—spurring perseverance, purity, and proclamation (2 Timothy 4:8). - Waiting is active, not passive: serving others, sharing the gospel, and watching the skies. Summary Hebrews 9:28 proclaims the completeness of Christ’s first sacrifice and the certainty of His second coming. Once for all, Jesus bore our sins; once for all, He will return—not to repeat the cross, but to complete our salvation. Those who trust Him live in joyful expectation, confident that the Savior who finished the work of atonement will soon appear to usher His people into eternal glory. |
    |