Many of these people were from different backgrounds and faced persecution and pressure to abandon the Christian walk. The writer of Hebrews gives then three reasons why they should not go back to their past lives. These can be applied to us today.

1 – Their past (vs. 32-34)

There were two things to note:-

• Their affliction. (vs. 32-33) Some of these Jews had already suffered persecution before they became Christians. Even those who considered becoming a Christian were persecuted. The name of Jesus Christ still causes people to be persecuted. There will be problems in the Church. See Philippians 1:29 & 2 Timothy 2:3-4. It is not easy to be a Christian. You will experience persecution. You have to endure hardship like a good soldier. It is better than the judgment and misery of this world.
• Their attitude (vs. 34) – They had compassion or sympathy. It means to “suffer with”. Many of their goods were being confiscated. Even those who were thinking of becoming a Christian. They still had a joyful attitude. Why? They had something better and enduring in Heaven. We are to endure suffering with joy. It is easy to rejoice when all is going well.

2 – Their persistence (vs. 35-36)

They have already struggled this far. They need two things to persist.

• Confidence (vs. 35). Don’t doubt the promises of God. If you do, then you will turn back. We need confidence in the promises of God. God’s Word.
• Endurance (vs. 36). We need to hold up under pressure. We need to be patient. We are to keep on, keeping on. We can’t drop our guard. We need to fight on. Don’t give up. We have everything we need. The Devil wants us to “cool off”. We need to be on fire for God.

3 – Their prospect (vs. 37-39)

Notice two things about their prospect:-

• The return of the Lord (vs. 37) – Jesus is coming again and it won’t be long. It could happen at any time. He is certainly coming back.
• The review of our lives (vs. 38-39) – The just shall live by faith. Those who “draw back” are not fit for the Kingdom. This is evidence that they were not saved in the first place. God is holding us. Are you in the number of those who are saved or those who draw back? There is no turning back

Categories: Hebrews