The warning of Hebrews 6:4-6 is very similar to the warning found in Hebrews 10:26-29. Paul explains that the rejection of Jesus’ sacrifice will leave the readers without any means for the forgiveness of sin because there is no other means for that forgiveness besides Jesus (Hebrews 10:1-14).
Read Hebrews 10:26-29. In what three ways does the author describe the sin for which there is no forgiveness?
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The author does not say that there is no atonement for any sin committed after receiving the knowledge of truth. God has appointed Jesus as our Advocate (1 John 2:1). Through Him we have forgiveness of sins (1 John 1:9). The sin for which there is no sacrifice or atonement is described as trampling underfoot the Son of God, profaning the blood of the Covenant, and outraging the Holy Spirit (Hebrews 10:29). Let’s review the meaning of these expressions.
The expression “trampled the Son of God underfoot” (Hebrews 10:29, NKJV) describes the rejection of Jesus’ rule. The title “Son of God” reminded the audience that God has installed Jesus at His right hand and promised to make His enemies “a footstool” for His feet (Hebrews 1:13; see also Hebrews 1:5-12, Hebrews 1:14, ESV). The trampling of Jesus underfoot implies that the apostate has treated Jesus as an enemy. In the context of the argument of the epistle (Hebrews 1:13), it could be implied that, as far as the life of the apostate is concerned, Jesus has been taken off the throne (which is occupied now by the apostate himself) and set as the footstool instead. This is what Lucifer wanted to do in heaven (Isaiah 14:12-14) and what the “lawless one” would attempt to do in the future (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, NRSV).
The expression “has profaned the blood of the covenant” refers to the rejection of Jesus’ sacrifice (Hebrews 9:15-22). It implies that the blood of Jesus is devoid of cleansing power.
The expression “insulted the Spirit of grace” is very powerful. The Greek term enybrisas (“insult, outrage”) involves the manifestation of hubris, which refers to “insolence” or “arrogance.” This term stands in stark contrast to the description of the Holy Spirit as “the Spirit of grace.” It implies that the apostate has responded to God’s offer of grace with an insult.
The apostate is in an untenable position. He rejects Jesus, His sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit.
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