Verse of the Day
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Hebrews 10:35-36
Do not, therefore, abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward. For you need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.
Introduction
Hebrews 10:35-36 urges believers to persevere in their faith despite hardships. This passage is part of a larger exhortation that reminds Christians of the confidence they should have in Christ's sacrifice, contrasting the old covenant sacrifices with the permanent efficacy of Jesus' offering. It serves as both a reassurance and a call to steadfast faith.
Commentary
This passage highlights two key virtues for Christians: confidence and endurance. The "confidence" refers to the believers' faith and trust in God's promises, which include the ultimate promise of salvation and eternal life. The "endurance" mentioned is a call to remain faithful through trials and suffering, indicating that persistence is necessary to truly "receive what was promised."
Understanding the Context
The audience of the Epistle to the Hebrews faced persecution and struggles, leading some to consider abandoning their faith. The author of Hebrews writes to persuade them that Christ's sacrifice is superior to the old covenant and that they must continue in faith to receive the eternal benefits promised by God. This passage, therefore, is part of a broader theological argument designed to bolster the spirits of a weary community.
Application for Today
In contemporary terms, this passage encourages believers to maintain their faith amidst challenges, whether they be personal trials, societal pressures, or global crises. It reminds us that faith is not just about private belief but also about the public and persevering witness in the face of adversity. The rewards of faith are not always immediate but require patient endurance.
Reflection
How have I experienced the need for endurance in my own spiritual journey?
What does "confidence" in God look like in practical terms today?
How can I cultivate a more resilient faith that withstands the trials I face?
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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