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Hebrews 10:35
Verse
Context
A Call to Persevere
34You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, knowing that you yourselves had a better and permanent possession.35So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward.36You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Cast not away therefore your confidence - Την παρῥησιαν ὑμων· Your liberty of access to God; your title and right to approach his throne; your birthright as his sons and daughters; and the clear evidence you have of his favor, which, if you be not steady and faithful, you must lose. Do not throw it away, μη αποβαλητε· neither men nor devils can take it from you, and God will never deprive you of it if you continue faithful. There is a reference here to cowardly soldiers, who throw away their shields, and run away from the battle. This is your shield, your faith in Christ, which gives you the knowledge of salvation; keep it, and it will keep you. The Lacedemonian women, when they presented the shields to their sons going to battle, were accustomed to say: Η ταν, η επι τας· "Either bring this back, or be brought back upon it;" alluding to the custom of bringing back a slain soldier on his own shield, a proof that he had preserved it to the last, and had been faithful to his country. They were accustomed also to excite their courage by delivering to them their fathers' shields with the following short address. Ταυτην ὁ πατηρ σοι αει εσωζε· και συ ουν ταυταν σωζε, η μη εσο· "This shield thy father always preserved; do thou preserve it also, or perish;" Lacaenarum Apophthegmata, Plut. Opera, a Wittenbach, vol. i. p. 682. Thus spake the Lacedemonian mothers to their sons; and what say the oracles of God to us? Μη αποβαλητε την παρῥησιαν ὑμων· Cast not away your confession of faith. This is your shield; keep it, and it will ever be your sure defense; for by it you will quench every fiery dart of the wicked one. The Church of Christ speaks this to all her sons, and especially to those employed in the work of the ministry. Of this shield, of this glorious system of salvation by Jesus Christ, illustrated and defended in this work, I say to each of my children: Ταυτην ὁ πατηρ σοι αει εσωζε· και συ ουν ταυταν σωζε, η μη εσο· This faith, thy father, by the grace of God, hath always kept; keep thou it also, or thou must expect to perish! May this be received both as a warning and encouragement! Great recompense of reward - No less than God's continual approbation; the peace that passeth all understanding ruling the heart here; and the glories of heaven as an eternal portion. Conscientiously keep the shield, and all these shall be thine. This will be thy reward; but remember that it is the mercy of God that gives it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Consequent exhortation to confidence and endurance, as Christ is soon coming. Cast not away--implying that they now have "confidence," and that it will not withdraw of itself, unless they "cast it away" wilfully (compare Heb 3:14). which--Greek, "the which": inasmuch as being such as. hath--present tense: it is as certain as if you had it in your hand (Heb 10:37). It hath in reversion. recompense of reward--of grace not of debt: a reward of a kind which no mercenary self-seeker would seek: holiness will be its own reward; self-devoting unselfishness for Christ's sake will be its own rich recompense (see on Heb 2:2; Heb 11:26).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now the just shall live by faith,.... The "just" man is one not in appearance only, but in reality; not by his obedience to the law, but by the obedience of Christ; and he is evidently so by the Spirit, and by faith: and he is one, who lives soberly and righteously; and the life he lives, and shall live, at present, is, not eternal life; for though he shall live that life, yet this is not intended; for it is a living by faith that is spoken of, and as antecedent to the coming of Christ; but a spiritual life is meant, a life of justification in Christ, a life of communion with Christ, and a life of holiness from Christ, with peace, joy, and comfort through him: and the manner of this just man's living is "by faith"; not upon his faith, but upon Christ, the object of it; and by "his faith", as in Hab 2:4 his own, and not another's; or by the faith of Christ: the Syriac version here renders it, "by the faith of myself"; that is, by the faith of Christ, who speaks, and who is the author and object of faith: the Alexandrian copy and the Vulgate Latin version read, "my just man shall live by faith"; and this life is to be now, in the mean while, until Christ comes, and because he will certainly come: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. The Hebrew word used in Hab 2:4 and which, by the Septuagint there, and by the apostle here, is translated by and rendered "draw back", according to R. David Kimchi (c) signifies, pride and haughtiness of heart; and, according to R. Sol. Jarchi (d) it signifies impudence; R. Moses Kimchi (e) takes it to be the same with which is used for a tower, or fortified place; and thinks it designs one who betakes himself to such a place for safety from the enemy, and seeks not to God for deliverance: so that such a person seems to be designed, who swells with pride and confidence in his own righteousness; who betakes himself to some fortress of his own for safety; who withdraws from the assembly of the saints, through fear of reproach and persecution; who withholds the truth, shuns to declare it, or maintain a profession of it; plays the hypocrite, and deals deceitfully in religious things; and, in short, it may intend one, who finally and totally apostatizes from the doctrine of faith, and the profession of it: and in such persons God has no pleasure, never had, nor never will have; but, on the contrary, they are abominable to him, and will lie under his sore displeasure, and feel the keen resentments of it; such stand opposed to the just man, that lives by faith, walks humbly with God, in a dependence, not on his own righteousness, but on the righteousness of Christ, in which he is safe from condemnation, and secure of the divine favour; for drawing back is not supposed of the just man, but of any man, as we, with the Ethiopic version, rightly supply; and is to be understood of anyone of the external professors of religion, who forsake the assembling of the saints, Heb 10:25 and is denied of the truly righteous in the following words. (c) In Hab. ii. 4. (d) In ib. (e) Apud R. David Kimchi in ibid. & in Sepher Shorashim, rad.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:35-36 Based on their exemplary faithfulness in the past (10:32-34), the author urges them not to throw away this confident trust in the Lord. The word translated confident trust is also used in Hebrews to speak of boldness in entering the presence of God (4:16; 10:19; cp. 3:6). Those who remain faithful receive a great reward (see 1:14; 6:12; 9:15; Jas 1:12). Patient endurance is the key response needed in the face of persecution, as the author argues in Heb 10:32–12:17.
Hebrews 10:35
A Call to Persevere
34You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, knowing that you yourselves had a better and permanent possession.35So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward.36You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Blessedness of the Unoffended
By T. Austin-Sparks14K32:32Offences2KI 2:1MAT 6:33MAT 11:2MAT 11:6MAT 11:11HEB 10:35In this sermon, the preacher begins by reading a passage from the book of 2 Kings, where Elijah is taken up to heaven by a whirlwind. The preacher then shifts to discussing the story of John the Baptist, who is in prison and facing a difficult situation. Despite his circumstances, John remains devoted to his calling and continues to proclaim the coming of the Messiah. The preacher emphasizes the importance of holding on to faith and not giving up, using the example of Elisha who refused to let go of Elijah until he received a blessing. The sermon concludes by encouraging the listeners to have confidence in God's unshakable kingdom and to seek a substantial and sure foundation in their faith.
Holding on to Your Confidence
By David Wilkerson3.7K1:00:16ConfidenceMAT 6:33ROM 8:281CO 1:26PHP 4:19COL 2:91TH 5:17HEB 10:35In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not losing confidence in God. He reads from Hebrews 10:35, which encourages believers to have patience and trust in God's promises. The speaker shares a personal story of facing a financial debt and feeling disappointed that an angel did not come to help. However, he recounts how God showed compassion through a banker who offered a payment plan. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus is the ultimate supplier of all our needs and that God chooses the weak and despised to confound the mighty.
Russ-05 Q & a a.katz
By Art Katz1.5K30:20RussianHEB 10:35REV 3:5REV 20:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life worthy of God's reward in eternity. He explains that when Jesus comes, he will bring his reward with him and give to each person according to their works. The preacher warns that many will have no reward or their works will be burned up in judgment. He urges the listeners to have a greater urgency about eternity and strive to obtain a greater and eternal reward by living a distinguished and productive life for Christ.
(February 1987) 05 - the Just Live by Faith
By Ray Lowe1.3K1:08:09Live By FaithHAB 2:2ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 10:35JUD 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not drawing back from God's calling. He highlights that God is not pleased with those who draw back and lose faith. The preacher uses the analogy of someone reaching out to help, only to have their fingers bitten off, to illustrate the consequences of drawing back from God. He also contrasts the church of Acts, which grew stronger in the face of persecution, with the church of Isaiah, which lacked faith. The sermon encourages believers to persevere and not be tempted by the world.
Knowing God's Ways - Part 3
By Walter Beuttler8271:06:29Knowing GodMAT 6:33HEB 10:35In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of feeling disconnected from God and contemplating suicide. After three days of despair, the speaker encounters a powerful spiritual experience. They describe seeing bands of fire and words of forgiveness in a circle around them. This encounter brings a sense of peace and assurance that their rebellion has been forgiven. The speaker also mentions the struggles and hardships that people go through, emphasizing the need for God's help and guidance in difficult situations.
Faith and Revival
By Manley Beasley75537:34RevivalFaithMAL 3:10MRK 11:24ROM 4:16HEB 10:35JAS 2:14Manley Beasley shares his heartfelt message on faith and revival, emphasizing the need for both personal and corporate revival in the church and nation. He outlines a sequence of faith that includes the vision of faith, the act of faith, the work of faith, the patience of faith, and ultimately the manifestation of faith. Beasley encourages believers to claim God's promises actively and work in faith to see revival happen now, rather than waiting passively for it to occur. He draws parallels between the process of farming and the spiritual work required for revival, stressing the importance of patience and active participation in God's plan. The sermon serves as a call to action for believers to engage in prayer and works that align with their faith for a genuine revival.
Preparing for a Time of Suffering
By Carter Conlon75439:39HEB 10:35HEB 11:31PE 4:12This sermon is a call to prepare for a time of suffering, drawing from the experiences of the past and the need for endurance, confidence, and love in the face of trials. It emphasizes the importance of faith, endurance, and separating from evil, while trusting in God's faithfulness and love. The message encourages believers to stand firm, have courage, and be prepared for the challenges ahead, knowing that God will be with them through it all.
Why Our Prayers Aren't Answered
By Al Whittinghill62855:42PrayerPRO 14:14PRO 21:13MAT 6:33LUK 12:22CO 12:8HEB 10:35In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not ignoring the cry of the poor, as it can have consequences for oneself. The preacher suggests that God may be trying to communicate through someone in need, and by helping them, one becomes a channel of God's provision. The preacher acknowledges that Jesus did not meet every need, but highlights the importance of not walking by the needs around us. The sermon also references the story of Daniel, who fasted and prayed for three weeks before receiving a vision from God. The preacher emphasizes the need for repentance and standing upright before God. Additionally, the sermon mentions the story of Joshua and the defeat at AI, where God reveals that Israel has sinned and transgressed the covenant. The preacher emphasizes the importance of being on God's side rather than assuming God is on our side.
How to Avoid Shrinking Back
By Robert B. Thompson5921:06:20HAB 2:4HEB 10:35In this sermon, the preacher discusses the possibilities of miniaturization and how it will revolutionize communication in the future. He mentions the potential of having email, internet, and even a three-way conference on a wristwatch. The preacher also highlights the dangers of being influenced by worldly desires and the negative consequences that can result from chasing after adventure. He emphasizes the importance of staying connected to God's vision and not shrinking back in faith. The sermon concludes with an invitation to come forward and commit to following God's plan.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 109
By Don Courville32626:56Radio ShowGEN 3:8MAT 6:33ROM 12:22CO 6:142TI 1:7HEB 10:35JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience where God revealed to him the perversion of Bible versions. He emphasizes that the presence of confusion in churches is a characteristic of Satan, which is caused by the various versions of the Bible available today. The speaker also mentions the spiritual warfare they are currently facing and the need for believers to be prepared and not deceived. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of walking in the Spirit and trusting in Jesus as the only Savior.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 491
By Don Courville32422:11Radio ShowECC 3:1MAT 7:7MRK 11:24JHN 11:40HEB 10:35JAS 2:17JAS 4:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of timing in God's work. He shares the principle that God's work done in God's way will not lack God's supply, both in terms of time and money. The speaker reflects on a personal experience where he realized he had been spreading himself too thin and not able to do things as well as he could. He encourages the audience to consider God's timing in their own lives and reminds them of the story of Samuel, where God waited 16 years before fulfilling his promise. The sermon concludes with a prayer for those who do not believe in Jesus and a reminder to listen to God's message.
Sacrifice of Faith
By Leonard Ravenhill471:16:34SacrificeFaithHEB 2:3HEB 10:35HEB 11:1HEB 12:12Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the profound nature of faith and sacrifice in his sermon 'Sacrifice of Faith.' He discusses how the epistle to the Hebrews is a warning to believers about neglecting their great salvation, urging them to recognize the supremacy of Christ and the importance of worship and sacrifice in their spiritual lives. Ravenhill illustrates the journey of faith through the lives of biblical figures like Abraham, highlighting the challenges and tests they faced, ultimately pointing to the necessity of a deep, personal relationship with God that involves both worship and sacrifice.
How to Listen to a Straight Sermon
By John Hames01SA 3:9PSA 119:105PRO 4:18HEB 10:35JAS 1:22John Hames emphasizes the importance of listening to strong sermons without losing confidence or becoming discouraged. He highlights how inexperienced converts may struggle to accept truth and may feel inadequate after hearing convicting messages, leading to doubts about their salvation. Hames encourages believers to not be overwhelmed by new revelations but to promise God to walk in the light revealed, helping them grow spiritually and be ready to help others. He also points out the tendency for Christians to flock to the altar at camp-meetings due to feeling inadequate in the face of new light and deep sermons. Hames stresses the need for both preachers and believers to be open to conviction and to immediately walk in the new light revealed by the Spirit.
Great Blessings Through Living by Faith
By Bob Hoekstra0ROM 1:17GAL 3:12HEB 3:14HEB 10:35HEB 12:1Bob Hoekstra emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidence in the Lord, as it leads to great rewards, endurance, and obedience to God's will. He highlights the significance of living by faith, which is the pathway to blessings like spiritual stamina and assurance of salvation. Hoekstra warns against drawing back from faith, as it displeases the Lord, and encourages believers to persevere in the Christian race by looking to Jesus as the author and finisher of their faith.
John Knox and the Revival in Scotland
By James Burns0PSA 23:4ISA 61:1MAT 5:10ROM 8:181CO 1:272CO 4:8PHP 1:202TI 1:7HEB 10:35REV 2:10James Burns preaches about the challenging and corrupt conditions in Scotland at the beginning of the sixteenth century, where the people were oppressed by poverty, ignorance, and spiritual bondage under a corrupt state church. John Knox, born in this tumultuous time, eventually embraced the Protestant faith and became a pivotal figure in the Reformation movement in Scotland, facing persecution and imprisonment for his beliefs. Despite enduring great suffering, Knox's unwavering courage and dedication to preaching the gospel led to the growth of the Reformed faith in Scotland, culminating in the abolition of Roman Catholicism and the establishment of the Church of Scotland.
Patience
By Charles S. Price0PSA 27:14PRO 3:5ZEC 4:6ACT 1:8HEB 10:35Charles S. Price preaches about the importance of patience and anticipation in the Christian journey, emphasizing the need to wait on the Lord for His perfect timing and the manifestation of His power. He highlights the early Church's reliance on the Holy Spirit for miracles and urges believers to surrender completely to God's will, becoming yielded channels for the Spirit's work. Price encourages a deepening sincerity and consecration to God, leading to a recognition of the indwelling Presence of the Holy Spirit and the anticipation of a glorious outpouring of spiritual power.
The Life Behind the Second Veil
By John Hames0COL 3:15HEB 3:14HEB 4:16HEB 10:19HEB 10:22HEB 10:24HEB 10:35John Hames preaches on the importance of boldly entering into the holiest through the blood of Jesus, emphasizing the heavenly boldness and supernatural courage that comes with the blessing of Holiness. He highlights the examples of historical figures like Fletcher, Inskip, Finney, and Catherine Booth who experienced this boldness and led powerful movements of revival. Hames discusses the duties of believers to hold fast to their faith, consider one another, not forsake gathering with fellow believers, and to never cast away their confidence, which brings a great reward.
"Fight the Good Fight of Faith"
By Samuel Logan Brengle0FaithHolinessMAL 3:1JHN 14:132CO 6:2GAL 2:201TI 6:12HEB 3:12HEB 4:16HEB 10:351PE 5:9REV 1:18Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the necessity of fighting the good fight of faith to attain a clean heart and holiness. He recounts the journey of a friend who, after much struggle, realized that the last barrier to his sanctification was an 'evil heart of unbelief.' Through persistent faith and resistance against the devil's lies, the friend ultimately claimed the promise of God and experienced the fullness of the Spirit. Brengle encourages believers to renounce all doubts and to trust in God's promises, asserting that true victory comes from unwavering faith. He concludes by reminding the congregation that now is the time to seek God's blessing and to stand firm against the enemy.
Confidence ("Cast Not Away Your Confidence" - "Confidence by the Faith of Him")
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Confidence In GodFaithPSA 37:5PRO 28:26ISA 40:31ROM 4:202CO 1:9EPH 3:12PHP 4:132TI 1:12HEB 10:351JN 5:14Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidence in God rather than in ourselves or worldly things, which are ultimately unreliable. He warns against the folly of trusting in our own hearts and encourages believers to draw near to God with boldness and confidence through faith in Jesus Christ. Waldvogel reminds us that true confidence comes from recognizing our weakness and relying on the Living God who raises the dead. He urges the congregation to cast away any confidence that is not rooted in Christ, as it is only through Him that we can find strength and assurance. The sermon concludes with a call to hope and trust in God's faithfulness, reinforcing that our confidence in Him will lead to great rewards.
The Beauty of Little Things
By Claudia Esh0MAT 10:221CO 16:13PHP 1:27HEB 10:351PE 3:14Claudia Esh emphasizes the importance of preparing for potential persecution in the church, foreseeing a time when believers may be pressured to stop proclaiming Christ as the only way to God, likely stemming from a push for worldwide tolerance. She highlights that true courage and faith are not developed overnight but are a result of consistent character-building in everyday decisions and actions, drawing inspiration from biblical examples like Jesus praying for His murderers and martyrs who stood firm in their faith. Esh urges believers to focus on building a deep, unwavering relationship with God through daily sacrifices and a continuous walk with Him, knowing that such preparation is crucial for standing strong in the face of adversity.
A Garment of Patience
By Clifford Fox0MAT 5:10ROM 12:121CO 10:13HEB 10:35JAS 1:12Clifford Fox shares the inspiring story of Hans Brael, a man severely persecuted in 1557 for his faith in Jesus Christ. Despite enduring immense suffering and torture, Hans remained steadfast in his belief, refusing to renounce the truth he confessed. Through his unwavering faith and patience, Hans demonstrated the strength and endurance that God provides to His children in times of trial, ultimately escaping and returning to his brethren in peace.
The Terror Begins
By Jill Briscoe0ISA 43:2ROM 8:35HEB 10:35JAS 1:121PE 4:12Jill Briscoe preaches about the unwavering faith and resilience of Bishop Festo in Uganda during a time of persecution under President Idi Amin Dada, drawing parallels to the biblical story of the fiery trials faced by early Christians. Despite the growing hatred and danger, Festo remains steadfast in his commitment to spreading the Gospel, likening the church to the grass that regrows after a fire, symbolizing the enduring nature of faith. As the persecution intensifies and people start disappearing, the message of hope and perseverance shines through, echoing Festo's belief that the church will emerge stronger than ever.
The Nature and Motive of Spiritual Ascendency
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual AscendencyService to GodEXO 23:17PSA 8:6PSA 24:3PSA 122:2ACT 20:24EPH 4:8PHP 3:14HEB 3:7HEB 10:35REV 14:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of spiritual ascendency, urging believers to cultivate a deep desire for spiritual elevation akin to the Israelites' longing for Zion. He challenges the audience to examine their motives for spiritual ambition, highlighting that true ascendency is rooted in service to God and others rather than self-interest. Sparks warns against the 'malady of not wanting,' which can hinder spiritual growth, and stresses the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of trials. He illustrates that spiritual ascendency is not merely a personal achievement but a means to serve and uplift the community of believers. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed commitment to spiritual aspirations that glorify God and fulfill His purposes.
Going on Is for Those Who Have Begun
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual GrowthPersistence in FaithJHN 15:5ROM 12:21CO 9:24GAL 6:9EPH 2:8PHP 1:62TI 4:7HEB 3:14HEB 10:352PE 3:18A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of persistence in the Christian journey, urging believers to hold firmly to their initial confidence in Christ despite challenges. He warns against the liberal perspective that encourages unrenewed sinners to continue in the faith without true spiritual life, which can lead to spiritual peril. Tozer stresses that genuine growth and development in faith can only occur when a true saving act of God has taken place in a person's heart, highlighting the importance of a real transformation for a fruitful Christian life.
The Martyrdom of Polycarp - Part 2
By St. Polycarp of Smyrna0MAT 10:32ACT 4:312TI 1:7HEB 10:35REV 2:10St. Polycarp of Smyrna, a venerable old man full of the grace of God, stood up and prayed fervently for two hours, leading many to repentance. Despite facing threats and pressure to deny his faith, Polycarp remained steadfast, refusing to renounce his belief in Christ. As he entered the stadium, a voice from heaven encouraged him to be strong and courageous. Polycarp's unwavering faith and bold confession of Christ, even in the face of death, left a lasting impact on those who witnessed his martyrdom.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Cast not away therefore your confidence - Την παρῥησιαν ὑμων· Your liberty of access to God; your title and right to approach his throne; your birthright as his sons and daughters; and the clear evidence you have of his favor, which, if you be not steady and faithful, you must lose. Do not throw it away, μη αποβαλητε· neither men nor devils can take it from you, and God will never deprive you of it if you continue faithful. There is a reference here to cowardly soldiers, who throw away their shields, and run away from the battle. This is your shield, your faith in Christ, which gives you the knowledge of salvation; keep it, and it will keep you. The Lacedemonian women, when they presented the shields to their sons going to battle, were accustomed to say: Η ταν, η επι τας· "Either bring this back, or be brought back upon it;" alluding to the custom of bringing back a slain soldier on his own shield, a proof that he had preserved it to the last, and had been faithful to his country. They were accustomed also to excite their courage by delivering to them their fathers' shields with the following short address. Ταυτην ὁ πατηρ σοι αει εσωζε· και συ ουν ταυταν σωζε, η μη εσο· "This shield thy father always preserved; do thou preserve it also, or perish;" Lacaenarum Apophthegmata, Plut. Opera, a Wittenbach, vol. i. p. 682. Thus spake the Lacedemonian mothers to their sons; and what say the oracles of God to us? Μη αποβαλητε την παρῥησιαν ὑμων· Cast not away your confession of faith. This is your shield; keep it, and it will ever be your sure defense; for by it you will quench every fiery dart of the wicked one. The Church of Christ speaks this to all her sons, and especially to those employed in the work of the ministry. Of this shield, of this glorious system of salvation by Jesus Christ, illustrated and defended in this work, I say to each of my children: Ταυτην ὁ πατηρ σοι αει εσωζε· και συ ουν ταυταν σωζε, η μη εσο· This faith, thy father, by the grace of God, hath always kept; keep thou it also, or thou must expect to perish! May this be received both as a warning and encouragement! Great recompense of reward - No less than God's continual approbation; the peace that passeth all understanding ruling the heart here; and the glories of heaven as an eternal portion. Conscientiously keep the shield, and all these shall be thine. This will be thy reward; but remember that it is the mercy of God that gives it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Consequent exhortation to confidence and endurance, as Christ is soon coming. Cast not away--implying that they now have "confidence," and that it will not withdraw of itself, unless they "cast it away" wilfully (compare Heb 3:14). which--Greek, "the which": inasmuch as being such as. hath--present tense: it is as certain as if you had it in your hand (Heb 10:37). It hath in reversion. recompense of reward--of grace not of debt: a reward of a kind which no mercenary self-seeker would seek: holiness will be its own reward; self-devoting unselfishness for Christ's sake will be its own rich recompense (see on Heb 2:2; Heb 11:26).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now the just shall live by faith,.... The "just" man is one not in appearance only, but in reality; not by his obedience to the law, but by the obedience of Christ; and he is evidently so by the Spirit, and by faith: and he is one, who lives soberly and righteously; and the life he lives, and shall live, at present, is, not eternal life; for though he shall live that life, yet this is not intended; for it is a living by faith that is spoken of, and as antecedent to the coming of Christ; but a spiritual life is meant, a life of justification in Christ, a life of communion with Christ, and a life of holiness from Christ, with peace, joy, and comfort through him: and the manner of this just man's living is "by faith"; not upon his faith, but upon Christ, the object of it; and by "his faith", as in Hab 2:4 his own, and not another's; or by the faith of Christ: the Syriac version here renders it, "by the faith of myself"; that is, by the faith of Christ, who speaks, and who is the author and object of faith: the Alexandrian copy and the Vulgate Latin version read, "my just man shall live by faith"; and this life is to be now, in the mean while, until Christ comes, and because he will certainly come: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. The Hebrew word used in Hab 2:4 and which, by the Septuagint there, and by the apostle here, is translated by and rendered "draw back", according to R. David Kimchi (c) signifies, pride and haughtiness of heart; and, according to R. Sol. Jarchi (d) it signifies impudence; R. Moses Kimchi (e) takes it to be the same with which is used for a tower, or fortified place; and thinks it designs one who betakes himself to such a place for safety from the enemy, and seeks not to God for deliverance: so that such a person seems to be designed, who swells with pride and confidence in his own righteousness; who betakes himself to some fortress of his own for safety; who withdraws from the assembly of the saints, through fear of reproach and persecution; who withholds the truth, shuns to declare it, or maintain a profession of it; plays the hypocrite, and deals deceitfully in religious things; and, in short, it may intend one, who finally and totally apostatizes from the doctrine of faith, and the profession of it: and in such persons God has no pleasure, never had, nor never will have; but, on the contrary, they are abominable to him, and will lie under his sore displeasure, and feel the keen resentments of it; such stand opposed to the just man, that lives by faith, walks humbly with God, in a dependence, not on his own righteousness, but on the righteousness of Christ, in which he is safe from condemnation, and secure of the divine favour; for drawing back is not supposed of the just man, but of any man, as we, with the Ethiopic version, rightly supply; and is to be understood of anyone of the external professors of religion, who forsake the assembling of the saints, Heb 10:25 and is denied of the truly righteous in the following words. (c) In Hab. ii. 4. (d) In ib. (e) Apud R. David Kimchi in ibid. & in Sepher Shorashim, rad.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:35-36 Based on their exemplary faithfulness in the past (10:32-34), the author urges them not to throw away this confident trust in the Lord. The word translated confident trust is also used in Hebrews to speak of boldness in entering the presence of God (4:16; 10:19; cp. 3:6). Those who remain faithful receive a great reward (see 1:14; 6:12; 9:15; Jas 1:12). Patient endurance is the key response needed in the face of persecution, as the author argues in Heb 10:32–12:17.