RPG Adults
THE DANGER OF DRAWING BACK
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10
Hebrews 10:26-39
Romans 3:23-31
“Therefore we conclude that a man is
justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”
THE DANGER OF DRAWING BACK
The challenge and the encouragement given in the current text are meant to show the children of God the way to follow and how to overcome the challenges of living a life of faith. The possibility of drawing back (Heb 10:38) is very real. Satan is ever present to deceive believers. The text tells of the consequences of such a move. The writer pointed out the need to fear God alone. The writer shared his testimony that he had to suffer, but he did not draw back. There is the need to endure and believe to the end as we have been saved.
There are repercussions to those who draw back. Earlier it had been noted that Christ as our High Priest offered Himself on the cross and became a sacrifice for us. This sacrifice was for the atonement of those who believe in His saving power. This truth is the heart of the gospel of salvation. Every believer will have knowledge of it. The writer said that there is no more sacrifice for sin if we sin wilfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth. Instead there will be fear, judgment and indignation. Since the message was mainly meant for Hebrew Christians, the writer used the example of the Mosaic Law. He said that it prescribed the death penalty for those who despised it under two or three witnesses.
In the same breath, it is also true that every transgression has its punishment. The wages of sin is death, so the writer added, “Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?” (Heb 10:29). Even in such circumstances, God did not close the door of grace. Despite the threat of punishment, His gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ always stands. Thus every sinner must repent.
THOUGHT: Discipleship is a life-long relationship with Jesus.
PRAYER: Father, may Thy grace see me through to the end.