Hebrews 10:19–25 “Faith, Hope, and Love”

5–7 minutes

Hebrews 10:19-25 NIV

Suggested Praise Songs:

Resources for Family Worship (with Children):

Explanation:

As the conclusion to the long doctrinal explanation that began in chapter 8, the author now offers words of exhortation. Just as Paul often did, the author first explains the principle of salvation and then describes how one should live as a person who has received the grace of salvation.

The author first affirms that “we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus” (v.19), through the grace of Jesus Christ. As previously explained, the Most Holy Place was where only the high priest could enter once a year, and only after carefully purifying himself, to offer the atonement sacrifice. Even the high priest had to enter with great fear and trembling. But now, anyone who trusts in “the blood of Jesus” can enter there “with confidence.” To “enter the Most Holy Place” means to “draw near to God,” because Jesus has removed the curtain that once blocked access to it. That way is described as “a new and living way” (v.20). It is “new” because it was opened not through the tabernacle, but through Jesus Christ himself; and it is “living” because it leads to true life. The phrase “that curtain is his body” means that it is through his body, sacrificed on the cross, that we are now able to approach God.

Therefore, believers must live with the “full assurance of faith” (v.22), knowing that “we have a great priest over the house of God” (v.21). To do so, three efforts are necessary. First, the author exhorts, “let us draw near to God with a sincere heart.” Since we have been cleansed in both body and spirit by the blood of Jesus, we can boldly approach God. Second, the author encourages, “let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess” (v.23). The reason for this is that “He who promised is faithful.” To say that God is “faithful” means that He always keeps His promises. Third, the author exhorts, “let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (v.24). To do this, we must make every effort to gather together more frequently (v.25).

Meditation:

After irrefutably demonstrating that no further sacrifices are necessary—since Jesus, as the eternal High Priest, offered a perfect and everlasting sacrifice once for all—the author presents three exhortations.

First, if we truly believe that Jesus is who he says he is, then we are to boldly draw near to God by relying on his precious blood. Even after being born again through Jesus Christ, we are not completely free from sin. When we consider our weaknesses, we may hesitate to approach God. But we do not come before God based on our own merit. If it were about our qualifications, we could never approach Him. Only by relying on the grace of the Lord—who forgave our sins through his death on the cross and continues to intercede for us at the right hand of God—can we come before Him “with confidence” and call Him “Abba, Father.”

Second, we are urged to hold firmly to the hope we have found in Christ. The “hope we profess” (v.23) refers to the hope that Jesus Christ, who is seated at the right hand of God, will return to subdue all his enemies under his feet and “make all things new” (Revelation 21:5). Those of us who remain faithful to the end in this life will share in the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the new heaven and new earth. As we see through the life and work of Jesus, God is the One who always keeps His promises. When we hold firmly to this hope, we can overcome the temptations, trials, and sufferings we face in this world.

Third, we are encouraged to make every effort to gather with our brothers and sisters in the faith—to encourage and serve one another. The Christian life is not a solo battle. Coming together as believers to form one body and serve one another is at the very heart of our faith. Jesus likened this to an “extended family,” and the Apostle Paul described it as “members of one body.” This means that people of faith should share a deep fellowship, like a family, and maintain close communication, like the parts of a body. Such connection and fellowship are not always easy or pleasant. There will be times when we get hurt or discouraged. But these are not things to avoid. Just as there is no growth without pain, the same is true for our faith. When we face challenges in community life, we should receive them as growing pains—and welcome them.

Seen this way, the first exhortation is about faith, the second is about hope, and the third is about love. Once again, we are reminded that the three pillars of the Christian faith are faith, hope, and love.

Prayer:

Draw near to God with confidence, hold firmly to hope, and eagerly gather to serve one another. Lord, I imprint these three exhortations—faith, hope, and love—upon my heart. Help me to live them out faithfully and consistently. I ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Children & Youth:

Key Point: Because of Jesus, we can come close to God without fear. We can hold on to hope, no matter what happens, and we can demonstrate love by helping and encouraging others, especially within the church and in our daily lives.

  • For Preschool-Lower Elementary
    • What does it mean to be brave when we talk to God?
    • Can you think of one way to be kind to someone at church this week/coming Sunday?
  • For Upper Elementary-Middle School
    • Why is it sometimes hard to come to God when we make mistakes? How does Jesus change that?
    • How can hope in Jesus help you when you’re having a tough day at school or with friends?
  • For High School
    • What does “coming to God with confidence” look like in your personal life?
    • What helps you hold on to your faith and hope when you feel discouraged or alone?

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