It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

The writer of Hebrews shares this disturbing insight after teaching about those who receive the knowledge of the truth, then deliberately keep on sinning. Doing so, they trample the Son of God underfoot and insult the Spirit of grace. Now judgement and a raging fire that consumes the enemies of God awaits.

The writer does not speak here of those who wrestle with God, question the scriptures, and seek in halting ways. The Lord shows great patience for all of us in our journey with him, despite our failures along the path.

Rather, this bunch refutes former ideas of God, turning again and again to tear down the faith of those around them. No one is spared—parents, brothers, sisters, former friends—all targets for their sacrilegious posture and mockery.

Perhaps I’m too cavalier with those who profess the faith then turn apostate? Better to warn them than smile and let them go. God’s grace awaits. There’s still time to repent, turn back to Jesus and escape their dreadful fate.

Hebrews 10 in reading the Bible in 2023

Photo by Jr Korpa