Hebrews 3:7
Verse
Context
Do Not Harden Your Hearts
6But Christ is faithful as the Son over God’s house. And we are His house, if we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope of which we boast. 7Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear His voice, 8do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion, in the day of testing in the wilderness,
Sermons
Warren Wiersbe
Leonard Ravenhill
Chuck Missler
David Wilkerson
Mike GilchristSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, Today - These words are quoted from Psa 95:7; and as they were written by David, and attributed here to the Holy Ghost, it proves that David wrote, by the inspiration of God's Holy Spirit. As these words were originally a warning to the Israelites not to provoke God, lest they should be excluded from that rest which he had promised them, the apostle uses them here to persuade the Christians in Palestine to hold fast their religious privileges, and, the grace they had received, lest they should come short of that state of future glory which Christ had prepared for them. The words strongly imply, as indeed does the whole epistle, the possibility of falling from the grace of God, and perishing everlastingly; and without this supposition these words, and all such like, which make more than two-thirds of the whole of Divine revelation, would have neither sense nor meaning. Why should God entreat man to receive his mercy, if he have rendered this impossible? Why should he exhort a believer to persevere, if it be impossible for him to fall away? What contemptible quibbling have men used to maintain a false and dangerous tenet against the whole tenor of the word of God! Angels fell - Adam fell - Solomon fell - and multitudes of believers have fallen, and, for aught we know, rose no more; and yet we are told that we cannot finally lose the benefits of our conversion! Satan preached this doctrine to our first parents; they believed him, sinned, and fell; and brought a whole world to ruin!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Exhortation from Psa 95:7-11, not through unbelief to lose participation in the spiritual house. Seeing that we are the house of God if we hold fast our confidence . . . (Heb 3:6). Jesus is "faithful," be not ye unfaithful (Heb 3:2, Heb 3:12). The sentence beginning with "wherefore," interrupted by the parenthesis confirming the argument from Psa 95:7-11, is completed at Heb 3:12, "Take heed," &c. Holy Ghost saith--by the inspired Psalmist; so that the words of the latter are the words of God Himself. To-day--at length; in David's day, as contrasted with the days of Moses in the wilderness, and the whole time since then, during which they had been rebellious against God's voice; as for instance, in the wilderness (Heb 3:8). The Psalm, each fresh time when used in public worship, by "to-day," will mean the particular day when it was, or is, used. hear--obediently. his voice--of grace.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, as the Holy Ghost saith,.... In Psa 95:7 today if you will hear his voice; either the precepts of Christ, to hear which is to obey them; and this is an acknowledgment to Christ as King of saints, and is a testimony of love to him, and is wellpleasing in his sight; and in which the saints find pleasure themselves, and profit also: or the Gospel of Christ, which is a voice of love, grace, and mercy; of peace and reconciliation; of pardon and righteousness; of liberty, redemption, and salvation by Christ; and to hear it, is not only to hear it externally, but internally, so as to understand it, and distinguish it from the voice of a stranger, and to approve of it, and believe it, and put in practice what is heard: and "today" may intend some festival day in David's time, when, and on account of which, this psalm was penned; as the feast of tabernacles, which was a type of Christ tabernacling in human nature; or it may regard the time of man's life, while it is day, or the present instant of life: or rather the whole Gospel dispensation. The psalm from whence these and some following words are taken, belongs to the Messiah; for the person the subject of it, is called the rock of our salvation; and every thing in it is applicable to him; as the ascription of deity, and divine worship; the creation and preservation of the universe; yea, he is represented as a shepherd, and the saints as his sheep; which plainly points at the office of Christ; and these very words are often made use of by the Jews, and applied to the Messiah, showing that if the Jews would repent but one day, or keep the sabbath but one day, the son of David, the Messiah, would come; since it is said, "today if you will hear his voice" (d); which the Chaldee paraphrase renders "his Word", his essential Word, the Lord Jesus Christ. (d) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 98. 1. Shemot Rabba, sect. 25. fol. 109. 3. & Shirhashirim Rabba, fol. 19. 3.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here the apostle proceeds in pressing upon them serious counsels and cautions to the close of the chapter; and he recites a passage out of Psa 95:7, etc., where observe, I. What he counsels them to do - to give a speedy and present attention to the call of Christ. "Hear his voice, assent to, approve of, and consider, what God in Christ speaks unto you; apply it to yourselves with suitable affections and endeavours, and set about it this very day, for tomorrow it may be too late." II. What he cautions them against - hardening their hearts, turning the deaf ear to the calls and counsels of Christ: "When he tells you of the evil of sin, the excellency of holiness, the necessity of receiving him by faith as your Saviour, do not shut your ear and heart against such a voice as this." Observe, The hardening of our hearts is the spring of all our other sins. III. Whose example he warns them by - that of the Israelites their fathers in the wilderness: As in the provocation and day of temptation; this refers to that remarkable passage at Massah Meribah, Exo 17:2-7. Observe, 1. Days of temptation are often days of provocation. 2. To provoke God, when he is trying us, and letting us see that we entirely depend and live immediately upon him, is a provocation with a witness. 3. The sins of others, especially our relations, should be a warning to us. Our fathers' sins and punishments should be remembered by us, to deter us from following their evil examples. Now as to the sin of the fathers of the Jews, here reflected upon, observe, (1.) The state in which these fathers were, when they thus sinned: they were in the wilderness, brought out of Egypt, but not got into Canaan, the thoughts whereof should have restrained them from sin. (2.) The sin they were guilty of: they tempted and provoked God; they distrusted God, murmured against Moses, and would not attend to the voice of God. (3.) The aggravations of their sin: they sinned in the wilderness, where they had a more immediate dependence upon God: they sinned when God was trying them; they sinned when they saw his works - works of wonder wrought for their deliverance out of Egypt, and their support and supply in the wilderness from day to day. They continued thus to sin against God for forty years. These were heinous aggravations. (4.) The source and spring of such aggravated sins, which were, [1.] They erred in their hearts; and these heart-errors produced many other errors in their lips and lives. [2.] They did not know God's ways, though he had walked before them. They did not know his ways; neither those ways of his providence in which he had walked towards them, nor those ways of his precept in which they ought to have walked towards God; they did not observe either his providences or his ordinances in a right manner. (5.) The just and great resentment God had at their sins, and yet the great patience he exercised towards them (Heb 3:10): Wherefore I was grieved with that generation. Note, [1.] All sin, especially sin committed by God's professing privileged people, does not only anger and affront God, but it grieves him. [2.] God is loth to destroy his people in or for their sin, he waits long to be gracious to them. [3.] God keeps an exact account of the time that people go on in sinning against him, and in grieving him by their sins; but at length, if they by their sins continue to grieve the Spirit of God, their sins shall be made grievous to their own spirits, either in a way of judgment or mercy. (6.) The irreversible doom passed upon them at last for their sins. God swore in his wrath that they should not enter into his rest, the rest either of an earthly or of a heavenly Canaan. Observe, [1.] Sin, long continued in, will kindle the divine wrath, and make it flame out against sinners. [2.] God's wrath will discover itself in its righteous resolution to destroy the impenitent; he will swear in his wrath, not rashly, but righteously, and his wrath will make their condition a restless condition; there is no resting under the wrath of God. IV. What use the apostle makes of their awful example, Heb 3:12, Heb 3:13, etc. He gives the Hebrews a proper caution, and enforces it with an affectionate compellation. 1. He gives the Hebrews a proper caution; the word is, Take heed, blepete - look to it. "Look about you; be upon your guard against enemies both within and without; be circumspect. You see what kept many of your forefathers out of Canaan, and made their carcasses fall in the wilderness; take heed lest you fall into the same sin and snare and dreadful sentence. For you see Christ is head of the church, a much greater person than Moses, and your contempt of him must be a greater sin than their contempt of Moses; and so you are in danger of falling under a severer sentence than they." Observe, The ruin of others should be a warning to us to take heed of the rock they split upon. Israel's fall should for ever be a warning to all who come after them; for all these things happened to them for ensamples (Co1 10:11), and should be remembered by us. Take heed; all who would get safely to heaven must look about them. 2. He enforces the admonition with an affectionate compellation: "Brethren, not only in the flesh, but in the Lord; brethren whom I love, and for whose welfare I labour and long." And here he enlarges upon the matter of the admonition: Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. Here observe, (1.) A heart of unbelief is an evil heart. Unbelief is a great sin, it vitiates the heart of man. (2.) An evil heart of unbelief is at the bottom of all our sinful departures from God; it is a leading step to apostasy; if once we allow ourselves to distrust God, we may soon desert him. (3.) Christian brethren have need to be cautioned against apostasy. Let those that think they stand take heed lest they fall. 3. He subjoins good counsel to the caution, and advises them to that which would be a remedy against this evil heart of unbelief - that they should exhort one another daily, while it is called today, Heb 3:13. Observe, (1.) We should be doing all the good we can to one another while we are together, which will be but a short and uncertain time. (2.) Since tomorrow is none of ours, we must make the best improvement of today. (3.) If Christians do not exhort one another daily, they will be in danger of being hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Note, [1.] There is a great deal of deceitfulness in sin; it appears fair, but is filthy; it appears pleasant, but is pernicious; it promises much, but performs nothing. [2.] The deceitfulness of sin is of a hardening nature to the soul; one sin allowed prepares for another; every act of sin confirms the habit; sinning against conscience is the way to sear the conscience; and therefore it should be the great concern of every one to exhort himself and others to beware of sin. 4. He comforts those who not only set out well, but hold on well, and hold out to the end (Heb 3:14): We are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast to the end. Here observe, (1.) The saints' privilege: they are made partakers of Christ, that is, of the Spirit, nature, graces, righteousness, and life of Christ; they are interested in all that is Christ's, in all that he is, in all that he has done, or can do. (2.) The condition on which they hold that privilege, namely, their perseverance in the bold and open profession and practice of Christ and Christianity unto the end. Not but they shall persevere, being kept by the mighty power of God through faith to salvation, but to be pressed thus to it is one means by which Christ helps his people to persevere. This tends to make them watchful and diligent, and so keeps them from apostasy. Here observe, [1.] The same spirit with which Christians set out in the ways of God they should maintain and evidence to the end. Those who begin seriously, and with lively affections and holy resolutions and humble reliance, should go on in the same spirit. But, [2.] There are a great many who in the beginning of their profession show a great deal of courage and confidence, but do not hold them fast to the end. [3.] Perseverance in faith is the best evidence of the sincerity of our faith. 5. The apostle resumes what he had quoted before from Psa 95:7, etc., and he applies it closely to those of that generation, Heb 3:15, Heb 3:16, etc. While it is said, Today if you will hear, etc.; as if he should say, "What was recited before from that scripture belonged not only to former ages, but to you now, and to all who shall come after you; that you take heed you fall not into the same sins, lest you fall under the same condemnation." The apostle tells them that though some who had heard the voice of God did provoke him, yet all did not so. Observe, (1.) Though the majority of hearers provoked God by unbelief, yet some there were who believed the report. (2.) Though the hearing of the word be the ordinary means of salvation, yet, if it be not hearkened to, it will expose men more to the anger of God. (3.) God will have a remnant that shall be obedient to his voice, and he will take care of such and make mention of them with honour. (4.) If these should fall in a common calamity, yet they shall partake of eternal salvation, while disobedient hearers perish for ever. 6. The apostle puts some queries upon what had been before mentioned, and gives proper answers to them (Heb 3:17-19): But with whom was he grieved forty years? With those that sinned. And to whom did he swear? etc. Whence observe, (1.) God is grieved only with those of his people who sin against him, and continue in sin. (2.) God is grieved and provoked most by sins publicly committed by the generality of a nation; when sin becomes epidemic, it is most provoking. (3.) Though God grieves long, and bears long, when pressed with the weight of general and prevailing wickedness, yet he will at length ease himself of public offenders by public judgments. (4.) Unbelief (with rebellion which is the consequent of it) is the great damning sin of the world, especially of those who have a revelation of the mind and will of God. This sin shuts up the heart of God, and shuts up the gate of heaven, against them; it lays them under the wrath and curse of God, and leaves them there; so that in truth and justice to himself he is obliged to cast them off for ever.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:7-19 This passage presents, “as a warning to us” (1 Cor 10:6), the negative example of those who wandered in the wilderness for forty years and died there. The wilderness wanderings represent disobedience to God and its consequences (see Num 32:7-11; Deut 1:19-35; Ps 106:24-26).
Hebrews 3:7
Do Not Harden Your Hearts
6But Christ is faithful as the Son over God’s house. And we are His house, if we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope of which we boast. 7Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear His voice, 8do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion, in the day of testing in the wilderness,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Jesus Today
By Warren Wiersbe7.6K51:43EXO 14:14RUT 3:18HEB 1:3HEB 3:7HEB 3:13HEB 3:15HEB 4:7HEB 13:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the sacrifice of Jesus. He highlights the role of Jesus as our High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses and was tempted in every way yet remained sinless. The preacher encourages believers to boldly approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find help in times of need. He also discusses how Jesus upholds and holds everything together, including the universe, and poses the question of whether Jesus can also hold our lives, families, and churches together.
Acts of the Apostles
By Leonard Ravenhill6.5K1:01:28JDG 16:30DAN 6:16MAT 21:12ACT 2:3HEB 3:7REV 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not substituting service for worship with the Lord. He encourages the audience to remember the secret to a fulfilling spiritual life is discipline. The preacher suggests taking time to be holy and getting rid of any hindrances, such as television, that may distract from worship. He also highlights the need to prioritize following the Word of God over public opinion or the opinions of others, even if it means going against the views of pastors or relatives. The sermon references biblical figures like Peter and Jonathan Edwards to illustrate the power of preaching with conviction and the importance of preaching as if it were one's last opportunity. The preacher also discusses the story of the man at the beautiful gate and emphasizes the significance of expecting to receive something from God. Overall, the sermon encourages gratitude, humility, and a deep longing for revival.
Jude #2 - Israel in the Wilderness
By Chuck Missler6.4K1:25:52JudeACT 17:111CO 10:13HEB 3:7HEB 4:1JUD 1:5In this sermon, the pastor discusses the topic of apostasy and warns the congregation about the dangers of falling away from the faith. He uses examples from the Bible to illustrate this, including Israel, the angels who sinned, and Sodom and Gomorrah. The pastor emphasizes the importance of avoiding unbelief and staying faithful to God. He also reminds the congregation of the assurance and promises of God, particularly referencing Joshua and Caleb as examples of faithfulness.
(Hebrews - Part 35): How Abraham Knew He Was Called
By A.W. Tozer5.8K33:40ExpositionalGEN 12:1GEN 28:12PSA 46:10MAT 11:15MAT 22:14JHN 3:16HEB 3:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the call of God and how it can come to people in various circumstances. He emphasizes that the call of God is for everyone, but not everyone hears it. The preacher gives examples from the Bible, such as Moses and Abraham, who received a clear call from God and were chosen for a specific purpose. He contrasts those who live solely for this world and its concerns with those who have been called by God and have a higher purpose. The sermon encourages listeners to be open to the call of God and to recognize that their true fulfillment lies in following His plan for their lives.
Hard-Heartedness in the Body of Christ
By David Wilkerson4.8K46:19LukewarmnessPRO 18:21PRO 26:20GAL 6:7HEB 3:7JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of daily prayer and Bible reading. He warns the congregation about the impending hard times and chaos that will come to the city. The preacher urges the listeners to prioritize their spiritual growth and not neglect the Word of God. He emphasizes the need for a tender and loving heart that is open to receiving God's reproof and correction.
(Spiritual Dangers) the Danger of Presumption
By Don Currin1.5K57:49PresumptionHEB 3:7In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the Israelites' 40-year trial in the wilderness, which revealed their tendency to wander from God. He then relates this to the experience of an old man in the church who is facing death. The preacher observes that many elderly people in churches today are bitter, cynical, and critical, which is not a good sign of their faith. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of testing in revealing the authenticity of one's faith and encourages the congregation to diligently make their calling and election sure.
Today Is the Day
By Mike Gilchrist1.4K37:14Hearing GodPRO 8:17ECC 12:1MAT 6:33HEB 3:7HEB 4:7In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of going to the Holy Land with a man named Charles. They visited significant biblical sites such as the empty tomb and Calvary. During their trip, Charles had a profound spiritual awakening and committed himself to Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes that God knows certain things that make Him excited, including the fact that people are more impressionable and open to salvation or restoration of fellowship at certain times. The speaker encourages the audience to seize the opportunity to say yes to God today.
The Messianic Psalms - Psalm 22 (2)
By Chip Brogden78130:52PsalmsPSA 22:21HEB 2:12HEB 3:7HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of endurance and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. He emphasizes that Jesus endured the cross and despised the shame for the joy set before him. This joy includes the assembly of the righteous and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, that all nations will be blessed through Christ. The speaker also highlights the importance of understanding that in God's kingdom, one must go lower to go higher, give up more to gain more, and lose one's life to find it.
Intimacy With the Lord
By Todd Saltzer73048:12PSA 139:23PRO 3:32AMO 3:7JHN 10:27ROM 8:14ROM 8:37COL 3:15HEB 3:7
This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing our identity as overcomers in Christ, highlighting the need to embrace intimacy with the Lord and seek His guidance. It discusses the significance of keeping secrets entrusted by God, the assurance of hearing God's voice in alignment with His Word, and the confirmation through inner peace and witness of the Spirit. The sermon also stresses the obedience, sensitivity to conviction, and the need to maintain a soft heart to hear and follow God's voice.
The Withdrawn Presence of God
By E.A. Johnston65726:42Presence of GodHEB 3:7In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the love of God as depicted in the Bible. He highlights the sad account of the Jewish people in the Old Testament who turned away from God and worshipped idols. The speaker emphasizes the consequences of forsaking God, using examples such as King Saul and the nation of Israel. He calls for a revival in true Christianity, where believers are convicted of their spiritual coldness and seek a genuine relationship with God. The sermon also addresses the need for a high view of God and the consequences of idolatry in modern society. The speaker concludes by pointing out the signs of God's withdrawn presence in America, such as increased crime, immorality, and hostility towards Christianity.
(Radical Jesus) 36 Radical Pursuit
By Glenn Meldrum50625:02RadicalPSA 95:7HEB 3:7In this sermon, the preacher uses an analogy of a young man who passionately loves a woman but discovers that she is in love with his enemies. This analogy represents the ache in our hearts to be faithfully loved and the need for a lasting love that can satisfy our yearning. The preacher explains that God uses physical suffering, depression, and the consequences of sin to open our eyes to our need for Him. He emphasizes the urgency of the situation, warning that many professing Christians may be heading towards eternal judgment if they do not understand the power of sin and God's pursuit of us for eternal well-being. The sermon references 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10 to highlight God's justice and the punishment for those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of Jesus.
The Deceitfulness of Sin
By Phil Beach Jr.2056:00SinAccountability in RelationshipsDeceitfulness of SinHEB 3:7Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the deceitfulness of sin, illustrating how small, unaddressed issues can grow into significant problems within families and communities. He stresses the importance of maintaining transparency, humility, and accountability in relationships to prevent the hardening of hearts and the development of an evil heart of unbelief. By using the example of David and Bathsheba, he highlights how sin often begins subtly and can lead to devastating consequences if not confronted early. The sermon calls for believers to encourage one another daily and to remain vigilant against the small leaven of sin that can corrupt the whole. Ultimately, Beach urges the congregation to seek God's grace and to foster a culture of openness and support within their families and church.
The Spirit Ceasing to Strive
By Charles Finney0Spiritual SensitivityThe Work of the Holy SpiritGEN 6:3JHN 16:8EPH 4:30HEB 3:7Charles Finney discusses the profound implications of God's Spirit striving with humanity, emphasizing that this striving is a moral influence that persuades and convicts individuals of their sinfulness. He explains that the Spirit's striving is often met with resistance, leading to a state of apathy and opposition when the Spirit ceases to strive. Finney warns that the consequences of ignoring the Spirit's call can result in a hardened heart and a loss of spiritual sensitivity, ultimately jeopardizing one's eternal destiny. He urges listeners to recognize the seriousness of the Spirit's work in their lives and to respond before it is too late, as the moment of striving is critical for salvation. The preacher calls for honesty and sincerity in one's relationship with God, stressing the importance of not quenching the Spirit's influence.
Kadesh-Barnea Again
By J. Wilbur Chapman0DEU 1:19MAT 26:24MAT 27:24MRK 10:21LUK 13:24ACT 26:28HEB 3:7JAS 4:17REV 3:20J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the significance of Kadeshbarnea in Deuteronomy 1:19, drawing parallels between the missed opportunity of the children of Israel to enter the Promised Land due to lack of trust in God and the missed opportunities for salvation in the New Testament. He emphasizes the importance of wholehearted surrender to God, using examples of individuals like Herod, Pilate, Judas, Felix, and Agrippa who were 'almost persuaded' but failed to fully commit, leading to tragic consequences. Chapman warns against stopping at the 'Kadesh-barnea' moments in life, where one is close to salvation but hesitates, risking eternal loss.
The Holy Spirit in the Epistle to the Hebrews
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0HEB 2:4HEB 3:7HEB 6:4HEB 9:8HEB 9:14HEB 10:15HEB 10:29Arno Clemens Gaebelein delves into the Epistle to the Hebrews, emphasizing its original address to Jewish Christians in Jerusalem who were still zealous for the law. The epistle contains warnings against turning back to Judaism after experiencing the gospel and the Spirit of God, highlighting the importance of perseverance in faith. Various passages in Hebrews underscore the role of the Holy Spirit in confirming the truth of Christ's sacrifice, guiding believers, and revealing God's Word through the prophets.
Commentary Notes - Joshua
By Walter Beuttler0EXO 15:3DEU 7:3ROM 8:37ROM 16:26EPH 1:11COL 3:24HEB 2:10HEB 3:7HEB 4:11JN 2:1Walter Beuttler preaches on the book of Joshua, highlighting the historical account of Israel's conquest of Canaan, where God led them into victory. The key phrase 'the Lord fought for Israel' emphasizes God's role as a warrior. Joshua, a type of Christ, leads his people to victory and allots them their portion, mirroring Christ's role as our Savior and Advocate. The book of Ephesians serves as the New Testament counterpart to Joshua, emphasizing the importance of obedience, faith, and God's intolerance towards sin.
Sinners Entreated to Hear God's Voice
By Edward Payson0PRO 27:1MAT 6:342CO 6:2HEB 3:7JAS 4:14Edward Payson preaches a powerful sermon on the urgency of heeding God's voice and not hardening our hearts. He emphasizes the immediate need for repentance and belief in Jesus Christ, highlighting the shortness and uncertainty of life as a compelling reason to turn to God today. Payson addresses those who are delaying their decision to follow God, warning them of the dangers of procrastination and the hardening of hearts that comes with disobedience. He stresses the importance of not postponing repentance, as tomorrow is not guaranteed and delaying only makes it more difficult to turn to God. Payson's message is a call to immediate action, urging listeners to heed God's command to repent and not delay their decision to become religious.
Quench Not the Spirit
By Catherine Booth0PSA 95:7PRO 29:1MAT 23:37JHN 16:8HEB 3:7Catherine Booth preaches on the capacity of man to resist God, emphasizing the power to quench the Spirit and the consequences of rejecting God's influence. She highlights how the Spirit strives with man by convicting of sin, appealing to fears and hopes, and urging for present submission. Catherine warns against quenching the Spirit by stifling convictions, refusing to consider the future consequences of sin, and persistently resisting God's call to surrender. She stresses that those who quench the Spirit show no concern for their souls, lack desire for God and righteousness, and risk losing the possibility of Salvation.
Better Than Pentecost
By David Wilkerson0Personal Relationship with ChristHearing God's Voice1KI 19:12PSA 46:10ISA 30:21JHN 3:29JHN 10:27ROM 10:17HEB 1:1HEB 3:7JAS 1:19REV 3:20David Wilkerson emphasizes that John the Baptist, despite not witnessing the events of Pentecost, found his greatest joy in hearing the voice of Jesus. He illustrates that true fulfillment comes not from miraculous signs but from a personal relationship with Christ, where His voice brings joy and direction. Wilkerson argues against the notion that God no longer speaks to individuals today, asserting that believers can still hear His voice if they are willing to listen. He encourages the congregation to remain open to God's communication, despite the potential for misuse of spiritual gifts. Ultimately, the joy of hearing Jesus' voice is presented as a profound and personal experience for every believer.
Sinners Entreated to Hear God's Voice.
By Edward Payson0PSA 95:7PRO 27:1PRO 29:1ECC 8:11MAT 3:22CO 6:2HEB 3:7HEB 3:15JAS 4:14Edward Payson preaches on the urgency of heeding God's voice and not hardening our hearts, emphasizing the immediate need for repentance and obedience to God's commands. He highlights the shortness and uncertainty of life, the danger of delaying repentance, and the consequences of hardening our hearts against God. Payson urges listeners to consider the seriousness of postponing a relationship with God, warning that tomorrow is not guaranteed and that delaying repentance only leads to further hardening of the heart and distance from God.
The Duties of Parents
By J.C. Ryle0DEU 32:42SA 23:2PSA 19:7MAT 12:36JHN 14:6JHN 17:172TI 3:16HEB 3:72PE 1:211JN 5:7In this sermon, the preacher delves into the concept of divine inspiration of the Scriptures, emphasizing that every word of Scripture is God-breathed, not originating from human will but from the Holy Spirit. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing the Bible as the voice of God to humanity, emphasizing its trustworthiness and authority. Various theologians and biblical figures are quoted to support the doctrine of the inspiration of Scripture, stressing that the Bible is the ultimate guide to divine truth and must be revered and obeyed.
He Will Lead
By Richard E. Bieber0JHN 14:26ACT 1:4ROM 8:14GAL 5:25EPH 4:301TH 5:19HEB 3:7JAS 4:51JN 2:27Richard E. Bieber preaches about the promise of the Holy Spirit to guide believers into truth and empower them to be witnesses for Jesus. The Holy Spirit comes to teach, guide, and empower every man and woman who lives as a disciple of Christ, not just limited to the apostles or a specific age. The key is to listen, learn, and follow where the Spirit leads, without looking back or being distracted by other voices or desires. The Spirit guides believers through challenges and impossible situations, requiring trust, unity with fellow believers, and obedience to His leading.
The Day of Golden Opportunity
By R.A. Torrey0Immediate Response to GodUrgency of SalvationEXO 8:8MAT 12:30JHN 8:34JHN 8:36HEB 3:7R.A. Torrey emphasizes the urgency of accepting Jesus Christ today, as the Holy Spirit continually calls us to act in the present rather than procrastinate. He illustrates the folly of delaying decisions about faith, using biblical examples and personal testimonies to highlight the peace, joy, and transformation that come from immediate acceptance of Christ. Torrey warns that tomorrow is uncertain and that delaying may lead to missed opportunities for salvation and a fulfilling life in Christ. He urges listeners to respond to the Holy Spirit's call without hesitation, as today is the day of golden opportunity.
The Care of the Soul Urged as the One Thing Needful. (Luke 10:42
By George Whitefield0PSA 49:1ECC 9:3JER 23:20MAT 16:26LUK 10:422CO 6:2HEB 3:7George Whitefield preaches about the importance of the soul's care, emphasizing the need to prioritize spiritual matters over worldly concerns. He uses the story of Mary and Martha to illustrate the significance of choosing the 'one thing needful,' which is the care of the soul. Whitefield urges the congregation to reflect on their own commitment to this essential task, warning against the dangers of neglecting the salvation of their souls. He passionately appeals to the unconcerned, the hesitant, and the devoted believers, encouraging them to seek divine grace and diligently pursue the 'one thing needful' for their eternal well-being.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, Today - These words are quoted from Psa 95:7; and as they were written by David, and attributed here to the Holy Ghost, it proves that David wrote, by the inspiration of God's Holy Spirit. As these words were originally a warning to the Israelites not to provoke God, lest they should be excluded from that rest which he had promised them, the apostle uses them here to persuade the Christians in Palestine to hold fast their religious privileges, and, the grace they had received, lest they should come short of that state of future glory which Christ had prepared for them. The words strongly imply, as indeed does the whole epistle, the possibility of falling from the grace of God, and perishing everlastingly; and without this supposition these words, and all such like, which make more than two-thirds of the whole of Divine revelation, would have neither sense nor meaning. Why should God entreat man to receive his mercy, if he have rendered this impossible? Why should he exhort a believer to persevere, if it be impossible for him to fall away? What contemptible quibbling have men used to maintain a false and dangerous tenet against the whole tenor of the word of God! Angels fell - Adam fell - Solomon fell - and multitudes of believers have fallen, and, for aught we know, rose no more; and yet we are told that we cannot finally lose the benefits of our conversion! Satan preached this doctrine to our first parents; they believed him, sinned, and fell; and brought a whole world to ruin!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Exhortation from Psa 95:7-11, not through unbelief to lose participation in the spiritual house. Seeing that we are the house of God if we hold fast our confidence . . . (Heb 3:6). Jesus is "faithful," be not ye unfaithful (Heb 3:2, Heb 3:12). The sentence beginning with "wherefore," interrupted by the parenthesis confirming the argument from Psa 95:7-11, is completed at Heb 3:12, "Take heed," &c. Holy Ghost saith--by the inspired Psalmist; so that the words of the latter are the words of God Himself. To-day--at length; in David's day, as contrasted with the days of Moses in the wilderness, and the whole time since then, during which they had been rebellious against God's voice; as for instance, in the wilderness (Heb 3:8). The Psalm, each fresh time when used in public worship, by "to-day," will mean the particular day when it was, or is, used. hear--obediently. his voice--of grace.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, as the Holy Ghost saith,.... In Psa 95:7 today if you will hear his voice; either the precepts of Christ, to hear which is to obey them; and this is an acknowledgment to Christ as King of saints, and is a testimony of love to him, and is wellpleasing in his sight; and in which the saints find pleasure themselves, and profit also: or the Gospel of Christ, which is a voice of love, grace, and mercy; of peace and reconciliation; of pardon and righteousness; of liberty, redemption, and salvation by Christ; and to hear it, is not only to hear it externally, but internally, so as to understand it, and distinguish it from the voice of a stranger, and to approve of it, and believe it, and put in practice what is heard: and "today" may intend some festival day in David's time, when, and on account of which, this psalm was penned; as the feast of tabernacles, which was a type of Christ tabernacling in human nature; or it may regard the time of man's life, while it is day, or the present instant of life: or rather the whole Gospel dispensation. The psalm from whence these and some following words are taken, belongs to the Messiah; for the person the subject of it, is called the rock of our salvation; and every thing in it is applicable to him; as the ascription of deity, and divine worship; the creation and preservation of the universe; yea, he is represented as a shepherd, and the saints as his sheep; which plainly points at the office of Christ; and these very words are often made use of by the Jews, and applied to the Messiah, showing that if the Jews would repent but one day, or keep the sabbath but one day, the son of David, the Messiah, would come; since it is said, "today if you will hear his voice" (d); which the Chaldee paraphrase renders "his Word", his essential Word, the Lord Jesus Christ. (d) T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 98. 1. Shemot Rabba, sect. 25. fol. 109. 3. & Shirhashirim Rabba, fol. 19. 3.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here the apostle proceeds in pressing upon them serious counsels and cautions to the close of the chapter; and he recites a passage out of Psa 95:7, etc., where observe, I. What he counsels them to do - to give a speedy and present attention to the call of Christ. "Hear his voice, assent to, approve of, and consider, what God in Christ speaks unto you; apply it to yourselves with suitable affections and endeavours, and set about it this very day, for tomorrow it may be too late." II. What he cautions them against - hardening their hearts, turning the deaf ear to the calls and counsels of Christ: "When he tells you of the evil of sin, the excellency of holiness, the necessity of receiving him by faith as your Saviour, do not shut your ear and heart against such a voice as this." Observe, The hardening of our hearts is the spring of all our other sins. III. Whose example he warns them by - that of the Israelites their fathers in the wilderness: As in the provocation and day of temptation; this refers to that remarkable passage at Massah Meribah, Exo 17:2-7. Observe, 1. Days of temptation are often days of provocation. 2. To provoke God, when he is trying us, and letting us see that we entirely depend and live immediately upon him, is a provocation with a witness. 3. The sins of others, especially our relations, should be a warning to us. Our fathers' sins and punishments should be remembered by us, to deter us from following their evil examples. Now as to the sin of the fathers of the Jews, here reflected upon, observe, (1.) The state in which these fathers were, when they thus sinned: they were in the wilderness, brought out of Egypt, but not got into Canaan, the thoughts whereof should have restrained them from sin. (2.) The sin they were guilty of: they tempted and provoked God; they distrusted God, murmured against Moses, and would not attend to the voice of God. (3.) The aggravations of their sin: they sinned in the wilderness, where they had a more immediate dependence upon God: they sinned when God was trying them; they sinned when they saw his works - works of wonder wrought for their deliverance out of Egypt, and their support and supply in the wilderness from day to day. They continued thus to sin against God for forty years. These were heinous aggravations. (4.) The source and spring of such aggravated sins, which were, [1.] They erred in their hearts; and these heart-errors produced many other errors in their lips and lives. [2.] They did not know God's ways, though he had walked before them. They did not know his ways; neither those ways of his providence in which he had walked towards them, nor those ways of his precept in which they ought to have walked towards God; they did not observe either his providences or his ordinances in a right manner. (5.) The just and great resentment God had at their sins, and yet the great patience he exercised towards them (Heb 3:10): Wherefore I was grieved with that generation. Note, [1.] All sin, especially sin committed by God's professing privileged people, does not only anger and affront God, but it grieves him. [2.] God is loth to destroy his people in or for their sin, he waits long to be gracious to them. [3.] God keeps an exact account of the time that people go on in sinning against him, and in grieving him by their sins; but at length, if they by their sins continue to grieve the Spirit of God, their sins shall be made grievous to their own spirits, either in a way of judgment or mercy. (6.) The irreversible doom passed upon them at last for their sins. God swore in his wrath that they should not enter into his rest, the rest either of an earthly or of a heavenly Canaan. Observe, [1.] Sin, long continued in, will kindle the divine wrath, and make it flame out against sinners. [2.] God's wrath will discover itself in its righteous resolution to destroy the impenitent; he will swear in his wrath, not rashly, but righteously, and his wrath will make their condition a restless condition; there is no resting under the wrath of God. IV. What use the apostle makes of their awful example, Heb 3:12, Heb 3:13, etc. He gives the Hebrews a proper caution, and enforces it with an affectionate compellation. 1. He gives the Hebrews a proper caution; the word is, Take heed, blepete - look to it. "Look about you; be upon your guard against enemies both within and without; be circumspect. You see what kept many of your forefathers out of Canaan, and made their carcasses fall in the wilderness; take heed lest you fall into the same sin and snare and dreadful sentence. For you see Christ is head of the church, a much greater person than Moses, and your contempt of him must be a greater sin than their contempt of Moses; and so you are in danger of falling under a severer sentence than they." Observe, The ruin of others should be a warning to us to take heed of the rock they split upon. Israel's fall should for ever be a warning to all who come after them; for all these things happened to them for ensamples (Co1 10:11), and should be remembered by us. Take heed; all who would get safely to heaven must look about them. 2. He enforces the admonition with an affectionate compellation: "Brethren, not only in the flesh, but in the Lord; brethren whom I love, and for whose welfare I labour and long." And here he enlarges upon the matter of the admonition: Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. Here observe, (1.) A heart of unbelief is an evil heart. Unbelief is a great sin, it vitiates the heart of man. (2.) An evil heart of unbelief is at the bottom of all our sinful departures from God; it is a leading step to apostasy; if once we allow ourselves to distrust God, we may soon desert him. (3.) Christian brethren have need to be cautioned against apostasy. Let those that think they stand take heed lest they fall. 3. He subjoins good counsel to the caution, and advises them to that which would be a remedy against this evil heart of unbelief - that they should exhort one another daily, while it is called today, Heb 3:13. Observe, (1.) We should be doing all the good we can to one another while we are together, which will be but a short and uncertain time. (2.) Since tomorrow is none of ours, we must make the best improvement of today. (3.) If Christians do not exhort one another daily, they will be in danger of being hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Note, [1.] There is a great deal of deceitfulness in sin; it appears fair, but is filthy; it appears pleasant, but is pernicious; it promises much, but performs nothing. [2.] The deceitfulness of sin is of a hardening nature to the soul; one sin allowed prepares for another; every act of sin confirms the habit; sinning against conscience is the way to sear the conscience; and therefore it should be the great concern of every one to exhort himself and others to beware of sin. 4. He comforts those who not only set out well, but hold on well, and hold out to the end (Heb 3:14): We are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast to the end. Here observe, (1.) The saints' privilege: they are made partakers of Christ, that is, of the Spirit, nature, graces, righteousness, and life of Christ; they are interested in all that is Christ's, in all that he is, in all that he has done, or can do. (2.) The condition on which they hold that privilege, namely, their perseverance in the bold and open profession and practice of Christ and Christianity unto the end. Not but they shall persevere, being kept by the mighty power of God through faith to salvation, but to be pressed thus to it is one means by which Christ helps his people to persevere. This tends to make them watchful and diligent, and so keeps them from apostasy. Here observe, [1.] The same spirit with which Christians set out in the ways of God they should maintain and evidence to the end. Those who begin seriously, and with lively affections and holy resolutions and humble reliance, should go on in the same spirit. But, [2.] There are a great many who in the beginning of their profession show a great deal of courage and confidence, but do not hold them fast to the end. [3.] Perseverance in faith is the best evidence of the sincerity of our faith. 5. The apostle resumes what he had quoted before from Psa 95:7, etc., and he applies it closely to those of that generation, Heb 3:15, Heb 3:16, etc. While it is said, Today if you will hear, etc.; as if he should say, "What was recited before from that scripture belonged not only to former ages, but to you now, and to all who shall come after you; that you take heed you fall not into the same sins, lest you fall under the same condemnation." The apostle tells them that though some who had heard the voice of God did provoke him, yet all did not so. Observe, (1.) Though the majority of hearers provoked God by unbelief, yet some there were who believed the report. (2.) Though the hearing of the word be the ordinary means of salvation, yet, if it be not hearkened to, it will expose men more to the anger of God. (3.) God will have a remnant that shall be obedient to his voice, and he will take care of such and make mention of them with honour. (4.) If these should fall in a common calamity, yet they shall partake of eternal salvation, while disobedient hearers perish for ever. 6. The apostle puts some queries upon what had been before mentioned, and gives proper answers to them (Heb 3:17-19): But with whom was he grieved forty years? With those that sinned. And to whom did he swear? etc. Whence observe, (1.) God is grieved only with those of his people who sin against him, and continue in sin. (2.) God is grieved and provoked most by sins publicly committed by the generality of a nation; when sin becomes epidemic, it is most provoking. (3.) Though God grieves long, and bears long, when pressed with the weight of general and prevailing wickedness, yet he will at length ease himself of public offenders by public judgments. (4.) Unbelief (with rebellion which is the consequent of it) is the great damning sin of the world, especially of those who have a revelation of the mind and will of God. This sin shuts up the heart of God, and shuts up the gate of heaven, against them; it lays them under the wrath and curse of God, and leaves them there; so that in truth and justice to himself he is obliged to cast them off for ever.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:7-19 This passage presents, “as a warning to us” (1 Cor 10:6), the negative example of those who wandered in the wilderness for forty years and died there. The wilderness wanderings represent disobedience to God and its consequences (see Num 32:7-11; Deut 1:19-35; Ps 106:24-26).