ii.
The past triumphs of Faith
(11:1-40).
iii.
The general application of the lessons of the past to the present season of trial
(12:1-29).
iv.
Last words
(13:1-25).
i. The privileges, perils, encouragements of the Hebrews (Hebrews 10:19-39)
The application of the lessons to be drawn from the view which the Apostle has given of the absolute supremacy of the Christian Faith over the preparatory system of Judaism begins with a vivid picture of the position of the Hebrews, (1) of their privileges and duties (10:19-25), (2) of their perils (10:26-31), and (3) of their encouragements (10:32-39). Each section has traits taken directly from scenes of persecution, from the isolation of proud or timid believers (v. 25), the abjuration of apostates (v. 29), the triumph of confessors (v. 34).
(1) vv. 19-25. The privileges and duties of Christians. The section deals first with the personal privileges (10:19-22), and then with the social duties of believers (10:23-25).
The privilege of direct access to God is confirmed by general and personal considerations. We have a way of approach and an effective Mediator (10:19-21). And on our part certain conditions have to be fulfilled personally. These are both subjective ( with a true heart, in fulness of faith ), and objective ( sprinkled in our hearts, washed in our body ) (10:22).
19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to use the entrance into the Holy place in the blood of Jesus, the entrance which He inaugurated for us ,
20even a fresh and living way through the veil, that is to say a way of His flesh ,
21 and a great priest over the house of God , 22 let us come to God with a true heart in fulness of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our body bathed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope that it waver not, for He is faithful that promised. 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works ,
25 not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more as ye see the day drawing nigh.
Heb. 10:19-21. The writer sums up briefly the blessings which he has shewn to belong to Christians. They have an entrance to the Divine Presence in virtue of Christ's Blood, a way made by the Incarnation, and an availing personal Advocate, a Priest over the house of God.
10:19. e[conte" ou\n, ajdelfoiv ...] Having therefore, brethren ...That which was under the Law a privilege of one only, once a year, is now the privilege of all Christians at all times. The form of the sentence is closely parallel to Heb. 4:13 ff.
The title
ajdelfoiv
(compare Heb. 3:1 note) is an impressive recognition of the new fellowship established in Christ. By using it the writer appeals to his readers to consider what they have received as Christians.
parrhsivan
]
boldness
in spite of the frankest recognition of our sins. Comp. 3:6 note; 4:16.
Parrhsivan povqen
;
ajpo; th'" ajfevsew"
...
ouj movnon de; tou'to, ajlla; kai; to; sugklhronovmou" genevsqai kai; tosauvth" ajpolau'sai ajgavph"
(Chrys.).
eij" th;n ei[s. t. aJ.
]
to use the entrance into the Holy place
, Vulg.
in