Question
I have been troubled by this verse and the 2 verses that follow it. Hebrews 10:26-28 After I was saved, I understand I now have an advocate with the Father, but I just don’t understand these verses. Who was Paul talking to when this was writen and what does he mean when he writes “there remaineth no more >sacrifice for sins”?
Answer
First let me answer your question about who the author of Hebrews was talking to. ASV Heb 3:1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of a heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, (even) Jesus; So the author (it was probably Paul, but the book doesn’t contain the name of the author) is talking to “holy brethren”. Heb 10:23 indicates he is speaking to brethren.ASV Heb 10:23 let us hold fast the confession of our hope that it waver not; for he is faithful that promised:
So, the writer is speaking to Christians and plainly says that they are to hold fast – persevere. If they don’t, verse 26 says the sacrifice of Jesus will not continue to apply and the brother who continues in sin will be judged and condemned.
I suspect that your trouble from this verse comes from a prevalent denominational teaching that once a person is saved, he is always saved. This passage definitely teaches otherwise. Sin can separate one from God who initially obeys Christ. The initial obedience that I refer to is Mark 16:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned. Your reference to an advocate is pertinent. ASV 1Jo 2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you that ye may not sin. And if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 2 and he is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for the whole world. 3 And hereby we know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. Yes, Christians have Jesus as an advocate, but we must keep his commandments.
What do you think?
By Larry Snell
