“For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries” (Hebrews 10:26-27).
In commenting on these verses, one source offers an understatement of monumental proportions: “This passage was destined to have repercussions in Christian history beyond what our author could have foreseen.” (1) This is an undeniably truthful statement, as many teachers, ministers, and Biblical counselors will undoubtedly attest.
Much like a similar warning given to us earlier in Hebrews chapter six, this passage serves as a cautionary reminder that draws our attention to the fact that choices have consequences. Nevertheless, it is important to consider the context of these verses so we can apply that reminder in an appropriate manner.
For instance, it is possible to isolate this verse and assume that a Christian who engages in a willful or deliberate sin is immediately subject to “…divine judgment and the fury of burning wrath and indignation…” (AMPC). While it is important to avoid minimizing or dismissing the potential consequences associated with intentional sin, we would do well to consider the framework of this passage before we reach that conclusion.
When approaching this passage, we should consider the fact that the Epistle to the Hebrews is very much what its name implies. In other words, the Biblical book of Hebrews is a letter that was originally written to a group of Jewish Christians. Some members of that original audience were tempted to return to the sacrificial offerings of the Old Covenant. For those who were contemplating such a retreat, this passage serves as a reminder: Jesus’ sacrificial death provides the only real atonement for sins. No other sacrifice is sufficient.
Contemporary readers should also consider Jesus’ statement from John 14:6: “…’I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me'” (NIV). Those who reject Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross thus reject the only path that leads to God, for “…There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).
Finally, one source ties these ideas together for the benefit of everyone: “Since God has set aside the Levitical system of animal sacrifices (v. 9), those who abandon their confession of trust in Christ have nowhere to turn for forgiveness.” (2)
(1) The New International Commentary On The New Testament – The Epistle To The Hebrews, F. F. Bruce, General Editor © Copyright 1964, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, Michigan [pg. 258]
(2) Sproul, R. C. (Ed.). (2015). The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (2015 Edition) (p. 2214). Orlando, FL: Reformation Trust