For you need endurance so that, having done the will of God, you may receive the promise. Hebrews 10:36 WEB
Paul begins the tenth chapter of Hebrews with an explanation of the law. Paul says the law is only a shadow of things to come. With this, Paul explains that bulls and calves cannot take away the sins of men. Rather, in Jewish law, these sacrifices served as yearly reminders of sin.
We learn from Romans 6:23, “ For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. KJV” Christ came as a final sacrifice to pay the price for the sins of all of humanity. Those who believe in him and repent receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life. This is the promise of salvation that Paul mentions reminding believers “you need endurance” to live according to the will of God.
God Desires Mercy
Jesus says in Matthew 9:13, “But you go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ for I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. WEB” It is the grace and mercy of God that calls us to repentance and offers himself as a sacrifice on our behalf.
The second portion of the tenth chapter of Hebrews is a call to persevere in the faith. In other words, Paul is encouraging the Hebrews to live in obedience to the will of God and not fall away from the faith, writing, “you need endurance.” These words, “you need endurance,” serve as a warning to forego sin and continue in obedience to the word of God as there is no further sacrifice beyond the one offered by Jesus Christ.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth revealed in your word. Thank you for making a way for me to be with you eternally in heaven. Increase my wisdom and understanding as I study your holy scriptures. Give me strength to endure and live according to your will. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Holy Spirit
