HEBREWS 10

RESPOND TO GOD’S PERFECT SACRIFICE WITH RIGHTEOUSNESS 

Focusing on the contrast of the old and new covenant, the author writes that the law was only a shadow of what was to come. Jesus was the perfect fulfillment of the law, living without sin. The author recalls the words of God and the obedience of Jesus, remembering that God desires faithfulness over sacrifices (Matthew 9:13, Hosea 6:6).

Through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus, God’s people have been sanctified once and for all. Through Jesus, God has replaced the old covenant with the new. The law required sacrifices to be made regularly, but Jesus’ death atoned for sins with a single sacrifice. Because of this perfect offering, there is no longer any need for sacrifices for sin.

The author encourages believers to draw near to God and have confidence in the blood of Jesus. God’s people are called to trust in the finished work of Jesus on the cross. Because God has kept His promise to send a Savior, believers can have assurance in their faith. The author reminds believers to regularly meet together and stir one another up in love and good works.

The believers are encouraged to persevere in the faith and not lose heart. Because they now have the knowledge of Jesus, they are warned to continue deliberately living in sin. God is merciful and gracious, but still desires holiness and righteousness from His people. The gift of salvation is not an excuse to live in sin, but a calling to pursue goodness. Followers of Jesus are instructed not to shrink back, but to endure in doing good.