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Hebrews 10:4
Verse
Context
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For it is not possible - Common sense must have taught them that shedding the blood of bulls and goats could never satisfy Divine justice, nor take away guilt from the conscience; and God intended that they should understand the matter so: and this the following quotation from the Psalmist sufficiently proves.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--reason why, necessarily, there is a continually recurring "remembrance of sins" in the legal sacrifices (Heb 10:3). Typically, "the blood of bulls," &c., sacrificed, had power; but it was only in virtue of the power of the one real antitypical sacrifice of Christ; they had no power in themselves; they were not the instrument of perfect vicarious atonement, but an exhibition of the need of it, suggesting to the faithful Israelite the sure hope of coming redemption, according to God's promise. take away--"take off." The Greek, Heb 10:11, is stronger, explaining the weaker word here, "take away utterly." The blood of beasts could not take away the sin of man. A MAN must do that (see on Heb 9:12-14).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For it is not possible,.... There is a necessity of sin being taken away, otherwise it will be remembered; and there will be a conscience of it, and it must be answered for, or it will remain marked, and the curse and penalty of the law must take place: but it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins; which was shed on the day of atonement: sin is a breach of the moral law, but these sacrifices belong to, the ceremonial law, which are less acceptable to God than moral duties; sin is committed against God, and has an objective infiniteness in it, and therefore can never be atoned for by the blood of such creatures; it leaves a stain on the mind and conscience, which this blood cannot reach; besides, this is not the same blood, nor of the same kind with the person that has sinned; yea, if this could take away sin, it would do more than the blood of the man himself could do; such blood shed can never answer the penalty of the law, satisfy divine justice, or secure the honour of divine holiness: but what the blood of these creatures could not do, the blood of Christ has done, and does: that takes away sin from the sight of justice, and from the consciences of the saints. Compare with this the Septuagint version of Jer 11:15. "what, has the beloved committed abomination in my house? shall prayers, and the holy flesh take away thy wickednesses from thee, or by these shall thou escape?''
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:4 The blood of bulls and goats in the sacrifices of the old covenant offered a degree of cleansing (9:13, 23), but that cleansing was limited in that it could not take away sins. It could not eradicate sin in a way that would offer permanent cleansing and peace with God (see Acts 10:36; Rom 5:1; 11:26-27).
Hebrews 10:4
Christ’s Perfect Sacrifice
3Instead, those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins,4because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. 5Therefore, when Christ came into the world, He said: “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You prepared for Me.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Marriage- the Picture of Christ and His Church
By Francis Chan3.8K23:40EPH 5:25HEB 9:23HEB 10:4This sermon emphasizes the profound mystery of Christ-centered relationships, highlighting how earthly marriages are a reflection of the eternal relationship between Christ and the church. It acknowledges the pain and challenges in relationships, especially when loved ones do not follow Jesus, and encourages prayer for healing and guidance. The focus shifts to how men can display Jesus Christ in their marriages by loving their wives sacrificially, drawing parallels between the union of husband and wife and the unity of Christ and the church. Practical examples and biblical explanations are provided to illustrate the deeper spiritual significance of marriage.
He Is Able (2 of 2) - 1955
By Leonard Ravenhill3.2K22:10Full SalvationHEB 8:6HEB 9:23HEB 10:4HEB 10:19HEB 10:22HEB 13:121JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher recounts a story about a criminal named Connell who was sentenced to death. The preacher, Philip Dodridge, tried his best to save Connell by using all his resources and efforts. However, despite his efforts, Connell was still executed. The preacher reflects on the limitations of human power and emphasizes the need for salvation through Jesus Christ. He highlights the importance of recognizing Jesus as the only way to be saved from sin and eternal damnation.
The First Believer
By Teresa Conlon62458:40PRO 3:5MAT 11:28JHN 20:1ACT 2:38HEB 10:4In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the events of the first Easter morning as described in John chapter 20. He emphasizes that Jesus was committed to teaching his disciples about himself and his kingdom, even when they didn't fully understand. The speaker encourages the audience to have an honest heart and allow Jesus to reveal himself and his ways to them. He highlights the significance of Jesus breaking bread, symbolizing his brokenness for humanity, and how this act opened the disciples' eyes to who he truly was. The speaker also mentions the power of Jesus' word in bringing freedom and life, as demonstrated through various miracles.
He Claimed Our Sins as His Own (Part 1)
By Erlo Stegen5371:17:49RedemptionPSA 40:6PSA 40:12MAT 6:33LUK 15:11JHN 1:29HEB 10:4HEB 10:7In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about two brothers. One brother commits a crime and asks for help from the other brother. The guilty brother gives his stained clothes to the innocent brother and asks him to take his place. The innocent brother agrees and takes on the guilt and punishment for his brother's crime. The preacher then relates this story to the crucifixion of Jesus, emphasizing the magnitude and indescribable greatness of Jesus' death and resurrection. The sermon encourages listeners to be captivated by the gospel and to understand the significance of Jesus' sacrifice.
Restoring Broken Trust, Joseph & Mary
By Michael Flowers38122:13Restoration2SA 11:1MAT 1:1EPH 1:17COL 1:15HEB 10:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the beginning of God's redemptive plan, which starts with a sex scandal involving Joseph and Mary. Joseph is troubled and disillusioned by Mary's pregnancy, but he decides to put her away quietly to avoid bringing shame upon her. The speaker emphasizes that God wants to give us dreams and visit us, even in the midst of our struggles. The birth of Jesus Christ is seen as the fulfillment of God's plan, as Jesus is the descendant of David and will reign forever.
God Has a Ministry for You
By George Warnock2771:28:37MinistryHEB 10:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and efficacy of the blood of Jesus in cleansing sinners. He encourages the congregation to think of God and have patience in their distress, as God is working in them to fulfill His promises. The preacher also highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit flowing like a river in the lives of believers, enabling the cleansing power of the blood to have free course. He warns against diminishing the significance of Christ's blood by suggesting that there is no sinless perfection for God's people. The sermon concludes with a call to be attentive to the voice of the Spirit and to be yielded vessels in God's hands.
From the Fall to the Messiah
By G. Campbell Morgan0ReconciliationThe Role of the Holy SpiritGEN 3:15JOL 2:28JHN 1:29ACT 2:4ROM 8:92CO 5:19GAL 4:4EPH 1:13HEB 10:41PE 1:10G. Campbell Morgan explores the journey from humanity's fall into sin to the promise of reconciliation through the Messiah, emphasizing that God's grace was evident even in the moment of rebellion. He explains that the Old Testament sacrificial system foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which was planned from the foundation of the world. Morgan highlights the evolving role of the Holy Spirit, who worked in specific ways throughout history, preparing humanity for the fullness of God's revelation in Christ. The sermon underscores the continuity of God's purpose and the hope that the Spirit brings, culminating in the establishment of the Church after Christ's ascension. Ultimately, Morgan illustrates how the Spirit's work has transitioned from occasional empowerment to a constant indwelling presence in believers today.
Hebrews 10:8-18
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 40:6MAT 5:3MAT 19:21MAT 25:34ACT 3:6HEB 10:4HEB 10:10John Chrysostom emphasizes the inefficacy of sacrifices in purifying sins and the superiority of Christ's sacrifice, which once and for all sanctifies believers. He explains that God never truly desired sacrifices but rather the obedience and surrender of one's will. Chrysostom highlights the importance of poverty as a virtue, contrasting the anxieties of the rich with the freedom and confidence of the voluntarily poor. He encourages believers to embrace poverty, generosity, and humility, as exemplified by Christ and His disciples, to inherit the kingdom of Heaven.
The Blood of Sprinkling
By Horatius Bonar0The Blood of ChristRedemption and JustificationISA 1:18JHN 1:29ROM 3:25ROM 5:9EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:22HEB 10:41PE 1:18REV 1:5Horatius Bonar emphasizes the significance of the blood of Christ in achieving peace and cleansing for sinners. He explains that the blood symbolizes substitution and the payment of sin's penalty, which was foreshadowed in the Old Testament sacrifices. Bonar highlights that while these sacrifices served as reminders of sin, they could not remove it; only the blood of Christ, shed once for all, can truly cleanse and justify believers. He warns against the modern tendency to reject the necessity of Christ's sacrifice, urging listeners to understand the true meaning of the blood and its role in their salvation. Ultimately, Bonar reassures that through faith in Christ's blood, believers can find rest and peace in their relationship with God.
Atonement Typified
By G.W. North0The Blood of ChristAtonementLEV 16:10ISA 53:5JHN 1:29ROM 3:25EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:22HEB 10:41PE 1:18REV 1:5G.W. North emphasizes the limitations of the Old Covenant regarding atonement, explaining that it merely covered sin rather than removing it. He contrasts this with the New Covenant, where Jesus' sacrifice provides true and eternal atonement, removing sin completely. North critiques the modern church's reliance on Old Testament terminology and practices, urging believers to understand the transformative power of Christ's blood. He illustrates the significance of the Day of Atonement and the roles of the two goats, symbolizing both the shedding of blood and the removal of sin. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper appreciation of Jesus' sacrifice, which fulfills God's original intention for atonement.
The Blood of Sprinkling
By G.W. North0RedemptionCleansing through ChristJHN 1:29ROM 5:9EPH 1:7COL 1:14HEB 9:12HEB 10:41PE 1:181JN 1:71JN 3:9REV 1:5G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the blood of Jesus as the ultimate cleansing agent for sin, contrasting it with the Old Testament sacrifices. He explains that while the blood of bulls and goats provided temporary atonement, the blood of the Lamb offers permanent redemption and sanctification, cleansing us from both known and unknown sins. North highlights the importance of walking in the light to experience continuous cleansing and the distinction between sins of ignorance and known sins. He asserts that true believers, while acknowledging their imperfections, are empowered by the blood of Christ to live in fellowship with God without habitual sin. Ultimately, the sermon reveals the profound mystery of redemption through the blood of Jesus, which is effective for all sin, past and present.
The Invisible Sacrifice
By G.W. North0Spiritual SacrificeThe Nature of God's LoveLEV 17:11PSA 51:16ISA 53:5JHN 15:13ROM 12:1EPH 5:2HEB 9:22HEB 10:41PE 2:5G.W. North emphasizes that the foundation of the world was laid in a spiritual sacrifice by God, which transcends the traditional understanding of sacrifice associated with sin and atonement. He argues that this divine sacrifice is eternal and rooted in the essence of life itself, rather than being a mere ritual for forgiveness. North explains that while physical sacrifices were instituted for Israel, they were intended to reflect deeper spiritual realities and the nature of God's love. The true significance of sacrifice lies in its representation of God's being and love, rather than the act itself. Ultimately, the visible sacrifices were mere shadows of the greater spiritual truths they were meant to convey.
Union With God
By G.W. North0ReconciliationUnion with GodJHN 1:14JHN 14:20ROM 5:101CO 10:162CO 5:21GAL 2:20EPH 2:13COL 1:20HEB 10:41PE 2:24G.W. North emphasizes the significance of union with God, tracing the concept of reconciliation from the Trinity's eternal counsel to its manifestation in Christ Jesus. He explains that the Old Testament sacrificial system symbolized God's covering of sin until the ultimate sacrifice was made by Jesus, who bore humanity's sin and established righteousness. This union is not only a theological concept but is made real through the work of the Holy Spirit and is expressed in the act of Communion. North highlights that this divine union is rooted in the oneness of the Trinity and is essential for believers to experience true reconciliation with God.
Day 114, Romans 3
By David Servant0ROM 3:2HEB 10:4David Servant delves into Paul's responses to objections regarding salvation by grace through faith in Romans, addressing Jewish criticisms on circumcision, God's faithfulness, and the righteousness of God. Paul emphasizes that salvation is not guaranteed by circumcision or adherence to the Mosaic Law, but through faith in Jesus for both Jews and Gentiles. He clarifies that the Mosaic Law exposes human unrighteousness and the need for a Savior, leading to the understanding that only through faith in Christ can righteousness be attained. Paul's gospel reveals God's righteousness through Christ's propitiation, appeasing God's wrath and providing forgiveness for sins, surpassing the limitations of animal sacrifices.
Exchanged Life
By Hudson Taylor0NUM 5:15PSA 38:1PSA 70:1ISA 1:11HOS 6:6MIC 6:6MRK 12:33LUK 22:191CO 11:24HEB 10:4Charles Simeon preaches on the significance of anamnesis, which involves awakening the mind to guilt before God and realizing the hindrance sin creates in our communion with Him. The Old Covenant focused on remembering sins through sacrifices, while the New Covenant emphasizes remembering our Savior's sacrifice. The Levitical system highlighted the need for constant sacrifices, but the Gospel offers complete remission of sins through Christ. Believers are encouraged to reflect on their sins, deepen their repentance, and increase their vigilance against sin, all while growing in love and gratitude towards their Savior.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For it is not possible - Common sense must have taught them that shedding the blood of bulls and goats could never satisfy Divine justice, nor take away guilt from the conscience; and God intended that they should understand the matter so: and this the following quotation from the Psalmist sufficiently proves.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--reason why, necessarily, there is a continually recurring "remembrance of sins" in the legal sacrifices (Heb 10:3). Typically, "the blood of bulls," &c., sacrificed, had power; but it was only in virtue of the power of the one real antitypical sacrifice of Christ; they had no power in themselves; they were not the instrument of perfect vicarious atonement, but an exhibition of the need of it, suggesting to the faithful Israelite the sure hope of coming redemption, according to God's promise. take away--"take off." The Greek, Heb 10:11, is stronger, explaining the weaker word here, "take away utterly." The blood of beasts could not take away the sin of man. A MAN must do that (see on Heb 9:12-14).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For it is not possible,.... There is a necessity of sin being taken away, otherwise it will be remembered; and there will be a conscience of it, and it must be answered for, or it will remain marked, and the curse and penalty of the law must take place: but it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins; which was shed on the day of atonement: sin is a breach of the moral law, but these sacrifices belong to, the ceremonial law, which are less acceptable to God than moral duties; sin is committed against God, and has an objective infiniteness in it, and therefore can never be atoned for by the blood of such creatures; it leaves a stain on the mind and conscience, which this blood cannot reach; besides, this is not the same blood, nor of the same kind with the person that has sinned; yea, if this could take away sin, it would do more than the blood of the man himself could do; such blood shed can never answer the penalty of the law, satisfy divine justice, or secure the honour of divine holiness: but what the blood of these creatures could not do, the blood of Christ has done, and does: that takes away sin from the sight of justice, and from the consciences of the saints. Compare with this the Septuagint version of Jer 11:15. "what, has the beloved committed abomination in my house? shall prayers, and the holy flesh take away thy wickednesses from thee, or by these shall thou escape?''
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:4 The blood of bulls and goats in the sacrifices of the old covenant offered a degree of cleansing (9:13, 23), but that cleansing was limited in that it could not take away sins. It could not eradicate sin in a way that would offer permanent cleansing and peace with God (see Acts 10:36; Rom 5:1; 11:26-27).