Hebrews 6:20
Verse
Context
Sermons
Zac PoonenZac Poonen
K.P. YohannanZac PoonenK.P. Yohannan
Earle MaxwellZac PoonenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whither the forerunner - The word προδρομος, prodromos, does not merely signify one that goes or runs before another, but also one who shows the way, he who first does a particular thing; also the first fruits. So in the Septuagint, Isa 28:4, προδρομος συκου signifies the first fruits of the fig tree, or the first ripe figs. To this meaning of the word Pliny refers, Hist. Nat., lib. xvi., c. 26: Ficus et praecoces habet, quas Athenis Prodromos (προδρομος), vocant. "The fig tree produces some figs which are ripe before the rest, and these are called by the Athenians prodromos, forerunner." The word is interpreted in the same way by Hesychius; it occurs in no other part of the New Testament, but may be found in Ecclus. 12:8, and in Isa 28:4, quoted above from the Septuagint. From this we may at once perceive the meaning of the phrase: Jesus is the first fruits of human nature that has entered into the heavenly kingdom; the first human body that was ripe for glory, and ripe long before the rest of the children who are partakers of flesh and blood. And he is entered for us, as the first fruits of all who have found redemption in his blood. Compare Joh 14:2 (note); Co1 15:20 (note), Co1 15:23 (note); and the notes there. The metaphorical allusion is to the person who carries the anchor within the pier head, because there is not yet water sufficient to carry the ship in; and to this I have already referred. After the order of Melchisedec - After a long digression the apostle resumes his explanation of Psa 110:4, which he had produced, Heb 5:6, Heb 5:10, in order to prove the permanency of the high priesthood of Christ. 1. We have in this chapter a very solemn warning against backsliding and apostasy, and that negligence and sloth which are their forerunners. A man cannot be careless about God and heaven, till he has lost his relish for sacred things; and this relish he cannot lose while he is diligent and faithful. The slightest departure from truth and purity may ultimately lead to a denying, and even reviling, of the Lord who bought him. 2. Every obedient believer in Christ Jesus has both the oath and promise of God that he will make all grace abound towards him, for in blessing God will bless him; he may be greatly agitated and distressed, but, while he continues in the obedience of faith, he will ride out the storm. His anchor is within the veil while his heart is right with God. Jesus is gone before to prepare a place for him; and where the first fruits are, there will soon be the whole lump. He who perseveres unto death shall as surely see God as Jesus Christ now does. God's oath and promise cannot fail.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The absence of the Greek article requires ALFORD'S translation, "Where. As forerunner for us (that is, in our behalf), entered Jesus" [and is now: this last clause is implied in the 'where' of the Greek, which implies being IN a place: 'whither' is understood to 'entered,' taken out of 'where'; whither Jesus entered, and where He is now]. The "for us" implies that it was not for Himself, as God, He needed to enter there, but as our High Priest, representing and introducing us, His followers, opening the way to us, by His intercession with the Father, as the Aaronic high priest entered the Holiest Place once a year to make propitiation for the people. The first-fruits of our nature are ascended, and so the rest is sanctified. Christ's ascension is our promotion: and whither the glory of the Head has preceded, thither the hope of the body, too, is called. We ought to keep festal day, since Christ has taken up and set in the heavens the first-fruit of our lump, that is, the human flesh [CHRYSOSTOM]. As John Baptist was Christ's forerunner on earth, so Christ is ours in heaven. Next: Hebrews Chapter 7
Hebrews 6:20
God’s Unchangeable Promise
19We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain,20where Jesus our forerunner has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews) ch.1:1-3:8
By Zac Poonen1.4K1:15:09MAT 17:8HEB 1:1HEB 3:1HEB 6:1HEB 6:20HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of looking to Jesus as the ultimate example and source of God's final message to mankind. The book of Hebrews repeatedly urges believers to consider Jesus and hear Him. Jesus is described as the forerunner, having lived a sinless life and showing humanity how God intended them to live. The writer of Hebrews encourages believers to not stop at the foundational aspects of their faith, but to press on to perfection, which is the desire of the Holy Spirit. The letter highlights the fullness of salvation, which not only forgives sins but also leads believers to perfection.
(Hebrews) ch.5:7-6:15
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:20:56MAT 26:36ROM 8:13HEB 2:17HEB 4:15HEB 5:6HEB 6:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Jesus as a man who experienced temptation and fear of falling into sin. He emphasizes that Jesus, as our high priest, was tempted in every way just like us, yet he did not commit sin. The preacher highlights Jesus' prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, where he prayed with strong crying and tears, showing his godly fear and dependence on God. The necessity for Jesus to pray in such a manner was to be saved from the death that is the wages of sin. Through his prayers, Jesus was heard and saved from spiritual death.
Calvary Chapel Cosa Mesa - Session 1
By K.P. Yohannan1.2K59:48ISA 22:22MAT 5:48JHN 5:39JHN 15:5HEB 6:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the urgency of the harvest and the importance of sharing the love of God with those who are lost. He shares a story of Jesus encountering a woman at a well and realizing the vast number of people who do not know God. The speaker encourages listeners, especially young people, to make life decisions in light of eternity. He references 2 Timothy 4:6 where Paul speaks about finishing the race and receiving the crown of righteousness. The speaker also highlights the need for believers to prioritize prayer, the word of God, and missions over worldly pursuits. He challenges listeners to examine their priorities and ensure that they are truly following Jesus.
Are You Following Jesus or Admiring Him?
By Zac Poonen1.0K49:35MRK 7:6JHN 6:53JHN 14:61CO 10:132TI 3:12HEB 4:15HEB 6:20JAS 2:5
This sermon emphasizes the importance of not just admiring Jesus, but also following Him. It discusses the need for balance in our Christian life, transitioning from admiration and praise to actively walking in His footsteps. The sermon highlights the challenges of following Jesus, including persecution, standing against unrighteousness, and choosing the narrow path of the cross. It encourages believers to live a life of gratitude, service, and godliness, even if it leads to being unpopular or facing opposition.
Calvary Chapel Cosa Mesa - Session 4
By K.P. Yohannan87359:48ISA 22:22MAT 5:48JHN 5:39JHN 15:5HEB 6:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the urgency of the harvest and the importance of sharing the love of God with those who are lost. He shares a story of Jesus encountering a woman at a well and realizing the vast number of people who do not know God. The speaker encourages listeners, especially young people, to make life decisions in light of eternity. He references 2 Timothy 4:6 where Paul speaks about finishing the race and receiving the crown of righteousness. The speaker also highlights the need for believers to prioritize prayer, the word of God, and missions over worldly pursuits. He challenges listeners to examine their priorities and ensure that they are truly following Jesus.
(The Life of Jesus) His Exultation
By Earle Maxwell70930:32JHN 14:9HEB 1:2HEB 4:14HEB 6:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Christ in our lives. He highlights three key aspects of Christ: Christ as our leader, Christ as the truth, and Christ as the source of life. The speaker encourages the audience to hold fast to their faith and to confidently approach the throne of grace for mercy and help. He also shares a story about a man who brings comfort and encouragement to a woman in a hospital by reminding her of God's presence and the victory we have in Christ. The sermon references the book of Hebrews and emphasizes Jesus as the Great High Priest.
The Priesthood of Melchizedek
By Zac Poonen5401:09:13GEN 14:18MAT 6:33ROM 12:1PHP 3:5HEB 6:20
This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the spiritual application of Old Testament events to grasp New Testament truths better. It delves into the significance of Jesus being a forerunner, a title often overlooked, and the need to seek understanding of all aspects of God's Word to deepen our Christian walk. The story of Melchizedek blessing Abraham is used to illustrate the principles of blessing others, trusting God for provision, and guarding against covetousness and pride.
Transformed to His Nature
By A.B. Simpson0Living Like ChristTransformationJHN 1:4JHN 5:39JHN 18:362CO 3:182CO 4:7GAL 2:20HEB 6:202PE 1:41JN 2:6A.B. Simpson reflects on a personal experience of feeling helpless when his car broke down, leading him to contemplate how Jesus would respond to such inconveniences. He emphasizes that true spirituality goes beyond mere obedience to the Bible, highlighting that the New Covenant calls us to partake in the nature of Christ rather than adhere to legalistic rules. Simpson asserts that Jesus is our model for living, demonstrating humility, love, and obedience, and that through the Holy Spirit, we are transformed into His likeness as we seek Him daily. He encourages believers to measure their lives against Christ's example, allowing Him to live through them, resulting in true godliness. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with Jesus, where His life is reflected in ours.
His Heart Was Lifted Up in The
By F.B. Meyer0Walking in God's WaysLifting Our Hearts to God2CH 17:6PSA 25:1PSA 51:10PSA 121:1ISA 40:31MAT 11:28EPH 2:6PHP 4:6COL 3:1HEB 6:20F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of lifting our hearts to God, encouraging believers to rise above the burdens of daily life and seek the serene presence of the Father. He draws inspiration from the phrase 'Sursum corda,' urging us to elevate our hearts free from sin and mistrust, and to embrace joy and purity. Meyer reminds us that in times of trouble, we should look up to God, who will lift us higher and fill us with peace. He highlights the necessity of walking in the ways of the Lord, as exemplified by Jehoshaphat, and warns against the distractions of idolatry and worldly concerns. Ultimately, he calls for a heart that aspires to dwell in heavenly places with Christ.
In Whom Also We Have Obtained an Inheritance
By C.H. Spurgeon0Inheritance in ChristSpiritual RichesJHN 1:16ROM 8:171CO 3:21EPH 1:11PHP 4:19COL 2:10HEB 6:20HEB 9:242PE 1:41JN 5:11C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that through Jesus' sacrifice, believers have obtained an inheritance that encompasses all the rights and privileges associated with Him. He explains that while Jesus possesses essential rights as God, He shares His glory and blessings with those who are united with Him. The sermon highlights that our access to heaven, justification, sanctification, and preservation is entirely through Christ, making Him the source of all our spiritual riches. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize the immeasurable value of their inheritance in Christ, which is beyond human comprehension. Ultimately, he reassures that all things belong to believers because they are in Christ, who is in God.
Epistle 275
By George Fox0GEN 26:15JOL 2:28JHN 4:6JHN 16:13ACT 7:51ROM 10:101CO 14:312CO 10:141TH 5:20HEB 6:201PE 2:9George Fox emphasizes the importance of not quenching the spirit of God within oneself or in others, as it can lead to spiritual deadness and questioning due to false fear. He urges obedience to the power of the Lord and His spiritual weapons to combat hindrances. Fox encourages believers to embrace the prophetic spirit, allowing everyone to offer spiritual sacrifices and declare God's truths. He highlights the significance of feeling the Holy Spirit, building upon Christ as the foundation, and laboring in God's vineyard with heavenly treasures as rewards for those who diligently serve.
(A Spiritual Leader) 14. the Priesthood of Melchizedek
By Zac Poonen0GEN 14:18LEV 6:101KI 19:5PSA 23:6MAT 9:20ACT 10:38HEB 6:20Zac Poonen preaches on the priesthood of Melchizedek, emphasizing its stark contrast to the Levitical priesthood that focused on rituals and external matters. Melchizedek's encounter with Abraham showcases how he met both his physical and spiritual needs without preaching directly, guiding him away from pride and covetousness by turning his attention to God. The ministry of priests in the order of Melchizedek is highlighted as a call to bless people physically and spiritually, following the example of disappearing after blessing, akin to how Jesus ministered humbly and selflessly during His earthly days.
Consider Him
By Ian Paisley0HEB 2:9HEB 4:14HEB 6:20HEB 7:22HEB 12:2HEB 12:24HEB 13:12Ian Paisley preaches about the Christian's journey as a great race, emphasizing the need to endure and overcome obstacles to obtain the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus. He highlights the importance of fixing our eyes on Jesus, who endured all contradictions and challenges, to find strength and avoid fainting. Through various references in the book of Hebrews, he urges believers to consider Jesus in His different roles - Crucified, Identified, Qualified, Verified, Magnified, Glorified, and Sanctified - to draw strength, hope, and sanctification from Him.
Spiritual Convictions & Heavenly Affections
By J.C. Philpot0LAM 1:12LUK 24:26JHN 10:10JHN 11:25ACT 2:24ROM 7:9ROM 8:292CO 3:18GAL 6:14EPH 2:8EPH 5:30COL 3:1COL 3:42TI 1:9HEB 6:20JAS 1:27J.C. Philpot preaches about the vital importance of experiencing death to self, resurrection in Christ, ascension to heavenly affections, and setting our hearts on things above. He emphasizes that true religion is not about external rituals or earthly pursuits, but about a spiritual union with Christ in His death, resurrection, and ascension. Philpot urges believers to seek a hidden life with Christ in God, to be weaned from earthly idols, and to set their affections on heavenly realities, drawing strength and grace from the risen Savior at the right hand of God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whither the forerunner - The word προδρομος, prodromos, does not merely signify one that goes or runs before another, but also one who shows the way, he who first does a particular thing; also the first fruits. So in the Septuagint, Isa 28:4, προδρομος συκου signifies the first fruits of the fig tree, or the first ripe figs. To this meaning of the word Pliny refers, Hist. Nat., lib. xvi., c. 26: Ficus et praecoces habet, quas Athenis Prodromos (προδρομος), vocant. "The fig tree produces some figs which are ripe before the rest, and these are called by the Athenians prodromos, forerunner." The word is interpreted in the same way by Hesychius; it occurs in no other part of the New Testament, but may be found in Ecclus. 12:8, and in Isa 28:4, quoted above from the Septuagint. From this we may at once perceive the meaning of the phrase: Jesus is the first fruits of human nature that has entered into the heavenly kingdom; the first human body that was ripe for glory, and ripe long before the rest of the children who are partakers of flesh and blood. And he is entered for us, as the first fruits of all who have found redemption in his blood. Compare Joh 14:2 (note); Co1 15:20 (note), Co1 15:23 (note); and the notes there. The metaphorical allusion is to the person who carries the anchor within the pier head, because there is not yet water sufficient to carry the ship in; and to this I have already referred. After the order of Melchisedec - After a long digression the apostle resumes his explanation of Psa 110:4, which he had produced, Heb 5:6, Heb 5:10, in order to prove the permanency of the high priesthood of Christ. 1. We have in this chapter a very solemn warning against backsliding and apostasy, and that negligence and sloth which are their forerunners. A man cannot be careless about God and heaven, till he has lost his relish for sacred things; and this relish he cannot lose while he is diligent and faithful. The slightest departure from truth and purity may ultimately lead to a denying, and even reviling, of the Lord who bought him. 2. Every obedient believer in Christ Jesus has both the oath and promise of God that he will make all grace abound towards him, for in blessing God will bless him; he may be greatly agitated and distressed, but, while he continues in the obedience of faith, he will ride out the storm. His anchor is within the veil while his heart is right with God. Jesus is gone before to prepare a place for him; and where the first fruits are, there will soon be the whole lump. He who perseveres unto death shall as surely see God as Jesus Christ now does. God's oath and promise cannot fail.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The absence of the Greek article requires ALFORD'S translation, "Where. As forerunner for us (that is, in our behalf), entered Jesus" [and is now: this last clause is implied in the 'where' of the Greek, which implies being IN a place: 'whither' is understood to 'entered,' taken out of 'where'; whither Jesus entered, and where He is now]. The "for us" implies that it was not for Himself, as God, He needed to enter there, but as our High Priest, representing and introducing us, His followers, opening the way to us, by His intercession with the Father, as the Aaronic high priest entered the Holiest Place once a year to make propitiation for the people. The first-fruits of our nature are ascended, and so the rest is sanctified. Christ's ascension is our promotion: and whither the glory of the Head has preceded, thither the hope of the body, too, is called. We ought to keep festal day, since Christ has taken up and set in the heavens the first-fruit of our lump, that is, the human flesh [CHRYSOSTOM]. As John Baptist was Christ's forerunner on earth, so Christ is ours in heaven. Next: Hebrews Chapter 7