A Grace That Compels Judgment
Hebrews 10:19-39
At this point in the Letter to the Hebrews, we see a repeating pattern: (1) Hebrews first points us to Jesus Christ—who he is and what he has done for us; (2) based on Christ, Hebrews then exhorts us to seek after God, hold fast to our confession, and to meet/encourage one another; (3) however, if we do not respond to Christ appropriately, then there is a grave warning; (4) fortunately for the people of Hebrews, there are signs that they are responding appropriately; but (5) regardless of the potential of the people of Hebrews, their ultimate hope is in God's promise. Up until now, Hebrews has focused largely on points #1, 2, 3, and 5. In this passage, however, the focus is more on point #3: a grave warning for those who are not responding appropriately to Christ.
When most people question why God needs to judge our sin, we often attribute it to his holiness and justice. Indeed, God is absolutely holy and just; hence, there needs to be a consequence for our sin. This is certainly true in Scripture, but this week's passage points to a different reason for God's judgment: it is because of his grace and love.
Notice the rhetorical question in Hebrews 10.29: "How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?" It is because God has so lavishly given us Christ, whose work so thoroughly fills us with his love and grace, that those who do not respond appropriately will be judged with greater severity. As Hebrews says, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (10.31).
So what are some ways that we ought to respond? As Hebrews has emphasized earlier: seeking God, holding fast our confession, and meeting/encouraging one another. In addition to this: persevering through suffering with joy, having compassion for others, and—above all—having faith. We will review each of these one at a time in order carefully to heed this important warning of God's judgment.
Questions:
1. Hebrews has encouraged us to reflect more upon God's holiness. This passage now turns our attention to God's wrath and judgment. Why is it healthy for us to reflect upon this? What are some biblical guidelines that can help us not distort this aspect of his character?
2. Although the title of the sermon implies that God's grace compels God's judgment, God's grace also compels us to respond appropriately in worship. Hebrews provides a list of appropriate responses to not only his grace, but also to his wrath and judgment. Take a few moments and assess yourself by marking 1-5 in each of these (1: doing poorly; 5: doing well). Share with one another as both praise reports and as prayer requests.
God's character and involvement in your life have been compelling you to seek after him
God's character and involvement in your life have been compelling you to hold fast to your confession
God's character and involvement in your life have been compelling you to meet and encourage one another
God's character and involvement in your life have been compelling you to persevere with joy despite your sufferings
God's character and involvement in your life have been compelling you to have compassion for others
God's character and involvement in your life have been compelling you to have greater trust and faith in him
3. The pattern that we see repeatedly in Hebrews begins with focusing on Christ—who he is and what he's done for us—and ends with the assurance of God's promise. Why is it so crucial for us to always start and end with these points?
