Hebrews 3:14
Verse
Context
The Peril of Unbelief
13But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.14We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly to the end the assurance we had at first. 15As it has been said: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion.”
Sermons
T. Austin-Sparks
T. Austin-Sparks
T. Austin-Sparks
T. Austin-Sparks
T. Austin-Sparks
Terrill YoderSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we are made partakers of Christ - Having believed in Christ as the promised Messiah, and embraced the whole Christian system, they were consequently made partakers of all its benefits in this life, and entitled to the fulfillment of all its exceeding great and precious promises relative to the glories of the eternal world. The former they actually possessed, the latter they could have only in case of their perseverance; therefore the apostle says, If we hold fast the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end, i.e. of our life. For our participation of glory depends on our continuing steadfast in the faith, to the end of our Christian race. The word ὑποστασις, which we here translate confidence, from ὑπο, under, and ἱστημι, to place or stand, signifies properly a basis or foundation; that on which something else is builded, and by which it is supported. Their faith in Christ Jesus was this hypostasis or foundation; on that all their peace, comfort, and salvation were builded. If this were not held fast to the end, Christ, in his saving influences, could not be held fast; and no Christ, no heaven. He who has Christ in him, has the well-founded hope of glory; and he who is found in the great day with Christ in his heart, will have an abundant entrance into eternal glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--enforcing the warning, Heb 3:12. partakers of Christ--(Compare Heb 3:1, Heb 3:6). So "partakers of the Holy Ghost" (Heb 6:4). hold--Greek, "hold fast." the beginning of our confidence--that is, the confidence (literally, substantial, solid confidence) of faith which we have begun (Heb 6:11; Heb 12:2). A Christian so long as he is not made perfect, considers himself as a beginner [BENGEL]. unto the end--unto the coming of Christ (Heb 12:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we are made partakers of Christ,.... Being loved by him, given to him, and chosen in him before the foundation of the world; and so participate of all spiritual blessings in him; for this respects something past, and may be rendered, "we have been made". The phrase is expressive of union to Christ, which is not by faith on man's part, and by the Spirit on Christ's part, but by his everlasting love, taking his people into an oneness with himself; thereby becoming their head, surety, and representative, which is the ground and foundation of all the blessings of grace being imparted to them: hence arises communion; as this is a conjugal union, there is communion of names, of persons, of goods, of honour and dignity, and of everlasting glory; as it is a federal or representative union, hence a non-imputation of sin, justification, and freedom from condemnation; and as it is an union of head and members; hence a communication of life, and the security of it, and of all grace and strength; hence holiness, fruitfulness, and perseverance, and everlasting happiness both of soul and body: if we hold fast the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end; by "confidence" is meant faith, which is an hypostasis, or subsistence, which is the word here used; and is so called, because it gives a kind of subsistence, substance, or being, to things it is concerned with, Heb 11:1 and because it is a great support to believers, under their various exercises; and is that by which they have an open, spiritual, and comfortable subsistence, and abiding in Christ: the "beginning" of it, which is to be held fast, is either Christ himself, who is the "the beginning", the author, and finisher of faith; and so this shows from whom, and in what way, this grace is distributed; and is expressive of communion with Christ, and is an evidence of the participation of him: or else the Gospel, which is the means of implanting faith, and directs to that which is the ground and foundation of it; and this is to be held fast, and never to be departed from: or else the grace of faith itself, which is a grace but begun, not yet finished, but shall continue, and is to be held fast, and constantly exercised; and perseverance in believing on Christ is an evidence of union to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14 For if we are faithful: Those who persevere in the faith have assurance that they are indeed part of God’s family (see 3:6; Rom 8:9, 17; 11:22; 2 Cor 13:5; Col 1:22-23).
Hebrews 3:14
The Peril of Unbelief
13But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.14We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly to the end the assurance we had at first. 15As it has been said: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary

(Christ—the Way God Makes Man Righteous) 11. the Just Shall Live Continually by Faith
By Denny Kenaston2.4K1:01:29JustMAT 6:33HEB 3:6HEB 3:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the reality of salvation and the importance of living continually by faith. He uses the analogy of a man crossing Niagara Falls on a wheelbarrow to illustrate the need for trust and reliance on God. The preacher emphasizes that salvation is not just a one-time event, but a ongoing journey of faith. He references Hebrews 3:6 and 3:14 to highlight the importance of holding fast to our confidence and hope in Christ. The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder that the just shall live by faith.

The Heavenly Calling - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K51:26Heavenly CallingLUK 5:7HEB 1:9HEB 2:14HEB 3:1HEB 3:14HEB 6:4HEB 12:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the ministry being focused on bringing glory to the Lord Jesus. The speaker explains that while the ministry involves work and instruction in the things of the Lord, it is also a time for encouragement and spiritual growth. The sermon then delves into the book of Hebrews, highlighting the idea of believers being companions of Christ and holding fast to their faith. The speaker also discusses the overarching purpose of God throughout the Bible, emphasizing that God works in relation to his Son and his purpose will ultimately be realized.

The Heavenly Calling - Part 14
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K57:28Heavenly CallingHEB 2:9HEB 3:1HEB 3:6HEB 3:14HEB 8:6HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the greatness of Jesus Christ and the superiority of the dispensation that believers have entered into. The speaker highlights that Jesus upholds all things by the word of his power, and this should bring comfort to believers, even when their personal world seems to be falling apart. The sermon also discusses the Son's greatness in comparison to angels, emphasizing that Jesus is far superior. The speaker concludes by stating that in the end times, the knowledge of the greatness of Christ will be crucial for believers, as all other things will pass away, and Jesus will abide forever.

The Heavenly Calling - Part 12
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K54:52Heavenly CallingHEB 1:4HEB 3:1HEB 3:14HEB 6:9HEB 7:19HEB 7:22HEB 8:6HEB 9:23HEB 10:34HEB 11:16HEB 11:35HEB 11:40HEB 12:24The sermon transcript discusses the theme of "better" in the book of Hebrews. The speaker highlights various verses in the book that emphasize the concept of "better," such as better than the angels, better things, better hope, better covenant, better promises, and better sacrifices. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a large conception of Jesus in order to navigate through trouble and testing. The letter was written to encourage Christians to persevere and not draw back from their faith, reminding them of their heavenly calling and the better things that await them.

The Heavenly Calling - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K44:48Heavenly CallingGEN 12:1EXO 4:22MAT 6:33ACT 7:2HEB 3:1HEB 3:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the nation of Israel and how it relates to believers in Christ. He emphasizes that God sees the nation as one son and will not surrender any part of it. The speaker also highlights the importance of recognizing God's intervention in our lives and how it marks a turning point in our personal history. He encourages listeners to bring the message of God's intervention into their own lives and to understand that they are called to be companions of Christ in a heavenly calling.

The Heavenly Calling - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1.5K51:45Heavenly CallingHEB 3:1HEB 3:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the two main themes running through the four gospels: the Jewish idea of the Messiah and the Kingdom of God, and the heavenly idea. The four gospels show the rejection of those who rejected Jesus by God, and the establishment of God's eternal plan through his son. The speaker emphasizes that the Jewish idea of an earthly system has been gone for two thousand years, while God's kingdom has been established. The sermon encourages young Christians to deepen their understanding of the Bible and commit themselves to Jesus.

(Faith Community Chapel) Remain Steadfast
By Terrill Yoder82437:05MAT 21:38COL 2:41TH 4:1HEB 3:142PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of building our lives on the teachings of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that it is not enough to simply hear the words of Jesus, but we must also put them into practice. The preacher warns that if we build our lives on anything other than Jesus Christ, our foundation will not stand when faced with trials and challenges. He encourages believers to be steadfast, unmovable, and always abounding in the work of the Lord, reminding them that their labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Eternal Judgment
By Robert B. Thompson5911:18:00ROM 14:102CO 5:10HEB 2:3HEB 3:141PE 4:121PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being delivered from sin and the difficulty that comes with it. He emphasizes the need for believers to have a clean conscience and to strive for godly behavior. The preacher also mentions the importance of blowing the trumpet in Zion and waking up to the time of deliverance from sin. He concludes by mentioning that there are three possible destinies for those who come before the judgment seat of Christ, depending on their response to the call to be delivered from sin.

Intimacy: Strive to Enter His Rest
By Stewart Ruch37022:28IntimacyGEN 1:1GEN 2:2EXO 3:14EXO 20:8PSA 121:4HEB 3:14HEB 4:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Eric Little, a Scottish runner in the 1920s. The focus is not on Little's athletic achievements, but on what he sacrificed for his faith. Little, a devout Scottish Presbyterian, refused to run in the Olympics on a Sunday, which was considered the Lord's day. Despite facing criticism and pressure from the International Olympic Committee and his own country, Little stood firm in his decision to prioritize his faith over his athletic pursuits. The sermon emphasizes the importance of enduring faith and the need to prioritize our relationship with God over worldly achievements.

Belief and Obedience
By Ernest C. Reisinger6450:05ObedienceJHN 8:31JHN 14:21ROM 13:8HEB 3:141JN 2:31JN 5:3In this sermon, the speaker criticizes the preaching of the word of God that focuses solely on mass psychology and fails to provide a clear understanding of what to believe and why to believe it. He emphasizes the importance of teaching people what to believe and the result of believing it. The speaker then shifts the focus to obedience, stating that if we are going to obey, we must know what to obey. He suggests that obedience should be based on the law of God and emphasizes the need for a gospel of behavior alongside a gospel of belief.

The Purpose of Companions
By T. Austin-Sparks0Companionship with ChristDivine PurposeEXO 33:11ISA 41:8MAT 21:43LUK 22:28JHN 15:14ACT 13:22EPH 1:23HEB 2:3HEB 3:1HEB 3:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of being 'companions' of Christ, as highlighted in Hebrews 3:1 and 3:14. He explores the biblical concept of companionship, illustrating how figures like Abraham, Moses, and David exemplified deep relationships with God, ultimately culminating in the companionship offered through Jesus Christ. Sparks stresses that this companionship is not merely an official title but a heartfelt relationship that calls for responsibility and commitment to God's purpose centered in His Son. He warns of the consequences of neglecting this calling, underscoring the importance of remaining steadfast in faith to truly experience the greatness of being a companion of Christ. The sermon invites believers to recognize their heavenly calling and the intimate relationship they are invited to share with Jesus.

And What Is the Land?
By F.B. Meyer0Inheritance in ChristSpiritual FulfillmentPSA 37:4MAT 7:7JHN 10:10ROM 8:321CO 2:12EPH 1:3PHP 4:19COL 2:3HEB 3:142PE 1:3F.B. Meyer emphasizes that the true 'land' is Christ, who embodies the promises of God and offers believers a rich inheritance. He illustrates how, like a family cultivating a farm, Christians should progressively claim more of Christ's fullness in their lives. Meyer encourages believers to explore the depths of Christ's provision, asserting that all spiritual needs are met in Him. He highlights that in times of weakness and sorrow, Christ is the source of joy, strength, and comfort. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a deeper understanding of the abundant life found in Christ, urging the Spirit to reveal His treasures to every heart.

Even Christ Pleased Not Himself
By A.B. Simpson0JOB 34:29ISA 45:9ISA 63:14MAT 11:28JHN 15:5PHP 2:13COL 2:16HEB 3:14HEB 4:9The preacher delves into the concept of Sabbath rest, explaining that it signifies a period of rest for God's people modeled after the traditional Sabbath, but not limited to a specific day. The rest is a fulfillment of believers' perpetual rest in fellowship with the Father and the Son, contrasting the weekly Sabbath under the Law. This rest is not dependent on special days but on faith in Christ's finished work, offering believers constant fellowship with God and freedom from worldly struggles.

"Seed for the Sower"
By George Warnock0ROM 4:162CO 1:7HEB 2:2HEB 3:14HEB 6:192PE 1:102PE 1:19JUD 1:1REV 17:14The preacher delves into the concept of 'bebaios,' describing it as something fixed, stable, and reliable, unwavering and persistent, known with certainty, and valid over time. This term signifies a sense of certainty and trustworthiness, akin to being firm, steadfast, and unalterable. The sermon emphasizes the importance of having a firm foundation in faith, highlighting how the promises of God, shared sufferings, and the Word of God are all 'bebaios' and can be relied upon. It stresses the need for believers to hold fast to their assurance, build their hope on Christ, and diligently confirm their calling and election through a holy life.

Fatherly Chastisement
By A.W. Tozer0JOB 22:20PSA 39:72CO 9:4HEB 1:3HEB 3:14HEB 11:1Greek Word Studies for Assurance (5287) explores the concept of 'hupostasis' as a solid, unshakable confidence in God, representing the essence or substance that underlies our faith. This assurance is likened to a title-deed, a foundation that supports our hopes and guarantees future possessions. The term 'hupostasis' is used in Hebrews 11:1 to describe faith as the assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of the unseen, and a firm grasp on God's promises.

What Will Your End Be?
By Anton Bosch0DEU 34:7JOS 14:11MAT 10:22MAT 21:28MRK 10:31PHP 1:62TI 1:12HEB 3:14HEB 12:2REV 1:8Anton Bosch preaches on the importance of how we end our lives rather than how we begin, using examples from the Bible such as Solomon, Samuel, and Saul who started well but ended tragically. He emphasizes the need to maintain spiritual vitality and zeal for God until the end, drawing inspiration from figures like Moses and Caleb who remained strong and faithful in their old age. Bosch highlights the significance of enduring to the end, holding fast to sound teaching, faith, and love, and entrusting everything to God to ensure a secure future.

A Place of Rest
By David Wilkerson0FaithfulnessRest in GodJHN 8:44HEB 3:1HEB 3:14HEB 4:9HEB 4:11David Wilkerson emphasizes the call from heaven for believers to find their rest in Christ, urging them to detach from worldly distractions and materialism. He highlights the importance of faithfulness, reminding us that Jesus was faithful to God, and encourages Christians to hold steadfast to their confidence in Him. As trials and battles intensify, believers must recognize the lies of the enemy, who targets those striving to enter God's rest. Wilkerson reassures that there remains a rest for the people of God, which is achieved through total trust in His Word. He calls for a personal encounter with God, where the Holy Spirit can provide strength and peace to weary souls.

1 Corinthians 9
By John Nelson Darby0Accountability in PreachingMinistryJHN 10:28ROM 5:5ROM 8:101CO 9:18PHP 1:192TI 2:5HEB 3:141JN 3:4REV 22:14John Nelson Darby expounds on 1 Corinthians 9, emphasizing the nature of ministry and the responsibilities of preachers. He highlights Paul's refusal to exercise his rights as an apostle for the sake of the gospel, illustrating the importance of serving without seeking personal gain. Darby discusses the balance between being supported by the church and maintaining independence in ministry, stressing that preachers are ultimately accountable to God. He warns against the dangers of legalism and the necessity of living a life consistent with one's preaching to avoid being a 'castaway.' The sermon concludes with a call to uphold the integrity of the gospel while navigating the complexities of ministry.

Hold Fast the Confidence
By A.B. Simpson0PerseveranceFaith1KI 18:412KI 13:14PSA 27:14ISA 40:31ROM 5:31CO 15:57PHP 4:132TI 4:7HEB 3:14JAS 1:12A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of holding fast to our confidence in God, illustrating the journey of faith through the examples of Elijah and Joash. He describes the initial simple trust represented by Elijah's proclamation of rain, followed by a deeper, more intense prayer life that requires perseverance and active faith. Simpson warns that many believers fall short in their faith journey, failing to meet God's expectations after asking for His blessings. He encourages believers to remain steadfast in their confidence, reminding them that they are partakers of Christ if they endure to the end. The sermon concludes with a message of hope for struggling believers, urging them to trust in Christ's victory over their challenges.

The Christian Life a Participation Not an Imitation
By F.J. Huegel0Spiritual TransformationParticipation in ChristJHN 15:5ROM 7:24HEB 3:14F.J. Huegel emphasizes that the Christian life is not merely an imitation of Christ but a participation in His divine nature. He contrasts the ideal Christian life as presented in the New Testament with the often disappointing reality of modern Christianity, urging believers to recognize their spiritual poverty and the need for a deeper connection with Christ. Huegel points out that true Christian living requires a supernatural transformation that can only come from abiding in Christ, rather than striving to imitate Him. He encourages those who feel overwhelmed by their shortcomings to seek the abundant life that flows from a genuine relationship with Jesus. Ultimately, he asserts that understanding this distinction between imitation and participation is crucial for experiencing the fullness of the Christian life.

United With Christ
By Thomas Manton0JHN 17:21ROM 6:51CO 6:17HEB 3:141JN 4:13Thomas Manton preaches about the mystical yet real union believers have with Christ, emphasizing the spiritual truth of this connection. He delves into the various terms used in the Bible to describe this union, highlighting that it goes beyond mere relation to a deep, mysterious unity. The sermon explores the profound mystery of Christ being in believers and believers dwelling in God, drawing parallels to similitudes like head and members, root and branches, and marriage. Manton underscores that this union is not just a concept from scripture but a genuine work of 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.

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.

Are You Still Saved?
By Allan Halton0HEB 3:14Allan Halton emphasizes the importance of continuing in faith and not being moved away from the hope of the Gospel, highlighting the presence of 'ifs' in the Bible that challenge believers to remain steadfast. He explores the concept of the New Covenant, which provides provision for believers' complete success through Jesus as our great high priest and the Holy Spirit as our Advocate. Halton encourages believers to tap into the Throne of Grace for the grace and provision needed to overcome trials and remain faithful, echoing the message of holding fast to confidence and rejoicing in hope until the end.

Hold on Until the End
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:14ISA 40:311CO 9:24GAL 6:9HEB 3:14Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of perseverance in the Christian journey, emphasizing the need to hold steadfast to our faith until the very end despite the various dangers and temptations that may arise. He highlights the critical nature of the final steps towards the Celestial City, where Doubting Castle and the enchanted ground pose significant threats to weary travelers. Cowman encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good, promising that they will reap the rewards if they do not give up, urging them to run the race of faith with determination.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we are made partakers of Christ - Having believed in Christ as the promised Messiah, and embraced the whole Christian system, they were consequently made partakers of all its benefits in this life, and entitled to the fulfillment of all its exceeding great and precious promises relative to the glories of the eternal world. The former they actually possessed, the latter they could have only in case of their perseverance; therefore the apostle says, If we hold fast the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end, i.e. of our life. For our participation of glory depends on our continuing steadfast in the faith, to the end of our Christian race. The word ὑποστασις, which we here translate confidence, from ὑπο, under, and ἱστημι, to place or stand, signifies properly a basis or foundation; that on which something else is builded, and by which it is supported. Their faith in Christ Jesus was this hypostasis or foundation; on that all their peace, comfort, and salvation were builded. If this were not held fast to the end, Christ, in his saving influences, could not be held fast; and no Christ, no heaven. He who has Christ in him, has the well-founded hope of glory; and he who is found in the great day with Christ in his heart, will have an abundant entrance into eternal glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--enforcing the warning, Heb 3:12. partakers of Christ--(Compare Heb 3:1, Heb 3:6). So "partakers of the Holy Ghost" (Heb 6:4). hold--Greek, "hold fast." the beginning of our confidence--that is, the confidence (literally, substantial, solid confidence) of faith which we have begun (Heb 6:11; Heb 12:2). A Christian so long as he is not made perfect, considers himself as a beginner [BENGEL]. unto the end--unto the coming of Christ (Heb 12:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we are made partakers of Christ,.... Being loved by him, given to him, and chosen in him before the foundation of the world; and so participate of all spiritual blessings in him; for this respects something past, and may be rendered, "we have been made". The phrase is expressive of union to Christ, which is not by faith on man's part, and by the Spirit on Christ's part, but by his everlasting love, taking his people into an oneness with himself; thereby becoming their head, surety, and representative, which is the ground and foundation of all the blessings of grace being imparted to them: hence arises communion; as this is a conjugal union, there is communion of names, of persons, of goods, of honour and dignity, and of everlasting glory; as it is a federal or representative union, hence a non-imputation of sin, justification, and freedom from condemnation; and as it is an union of head and members; hence a communication of life, and the security of it, and of all grace and strength; hence holiness, fruitfulness, and perseverance, and everlasting happiness both of soul and body: if we hold fast the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end; by "confidence" is meant faith, which is an hypostasis, or subsistence, which is the word here used; and is so called, because it gives a kind of subsistence, substance, or being, to things it is concerned with, Heb 11:1 and because it is a great support to believers, under their various exercises; and is that by which they have an open, spiritual, and comfortable subsistence, and abiding in Christ: the "beginning" of it, which is to be held fast, is either Christ himself, who is the "the beginning", the author, and finisher of faith; and so this shows from whom, and in what way, this grace is distributed; and is expressive of communion with Christ, and is an evidence of the participation of him: or else the Gospel, which is the means of implanting faith, and directs to that which is the ground and foundation of it; and this is to be held fast, and never to be departed from: or else the grace of faith itself, which is a grace but begun, not yet finished, but shall continue, and is to be held fast, and constantly exercised; and perseverance in believing on Christ is an evidence of union to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14 For if we are faithful: Those who persevere in the faith have assurance that they are indeed part of God’s family (see 3:6; Rom 8:9, 17; 11:22; 2 Cor 13:5; Col 1:22-23).