10:25 10:25

Hebrews 10:26

10:27 10:27

Bible Versions

For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
For {G1063} if we {G2257} sin {G264} wilfully {G1596} after {G3326} that we have received {G2983} the knowledge {G1922} of the truth {G225}, there remaineth {G620} no more {G3765} sacrifice {G2378} for {G4012} sins {G266},
For if we deliberately continue to sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,
If we deliberately go on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no further sacrifice for sins remains,
For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins,

Hebrews 10:26 is a profound and often challenging warning within the New Testament, addressing the grave consequences for those who deliberately reject the truth of Christ's atoning sacrifice after having fully understood it.

Context

This verse is situated within a critical section of the Book of Hebrews (chapters 9 and 10) that meticulously contrasts the old covenant's repeated animal sacrifices with the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The author has just eloquently established the superiority and finality of Christ's work on the cross, which inaugurated a new and better covenant. Following this theological exposition, the author shifts to practical exhortations, urging believers to draw near to God, hold fast to their confession of hope, and not forsake assembling together. Verse 26 serves as a severe warning against apostasy – a conscious and deliberate turning away from faith in Christ after experiencing and understanding the truth of the Gospel. It is addressed to Jewish Christians who might have been tempted to revert to the old covenant system or completely abandon their faith due to persecution or misunderstanding.

Key Themes

  • The Finality of Christ's Sacrifice: The core message is that Christ's offering was complete and sufficient. There is no alternative or supplementary sacrifice available for sins once His unique atonement is rejected.
  • Deliberate Rejection of Truth: The phrase "sin wilfully" points to an intentional, persistent, and conscious act of turning away from the known truth of the Gospel, rather than a momentary lapse or unintentional sin. It implies a hardened heart that rejects the only means of salvation.
  • No Alternative Atonement: If Christ's sacrifice, which is the ultimate and perfect solution for sin, is spurned, then there remains no other means by which one can be reconciled to God. This underscores the absolute necessity and exclusivity of salvation through Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "sin wilfully" translates the Greek hekousiōs hamartanō (ἑκουσίως ἁμαρτάνω). Hekousiōs denotes an intentional, voluntary, or deliberate action, emphasizing that this is not an accidental or unwitting transgression, but a purposeful act of rebellion or rejection. It contrasts sharply with sins committed out of ignorance or weakness, which were covered by the Old Testament sacrificial system and are covered by God's grace and forgiveness under the New Covenant when confessed (1 John 1:9).

Practical Application

This verse is often a source of concern for believers who fear they may have committed an unforgivable sin. However, it's crucial to understand that this warning is not directed at those who struggle with sin, occasionally stumble, or even commit serious sins but later repent. Instead, it speaks to a deliberate, unrepentant, and final rejection of Christ and His saving work after having genuinely understood and perhaps even experienced it. For the true believer who confesses their sins and desires to follow Christ, the promise of forgiveness and restoration remains. The verse serves as a powerful reminder of:

  • The immense value and irreplaceable nature of Christ's sacrifice.
  • The seriousness of rejecting God's ultimate provision for sin.
  • The importance of persevering in faith and holding fast to the hope we have in Christ.

It encourages all who have received the knowledge of the truth to remain steadfast and appreciate the profound grace offered through Jesus, understanding that His atonement is the sole and sufficient path to reconciliation with God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Peter 2:20

    For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.

  • 2 Peter 2:22

    But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog [is] turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

  • Hebrews 6:4

    For [it is] impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

  • Hebrews 6:6

    If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put [him] to an open shame.

  • John 9:41

    Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

  • Luke 12:47

    And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not [himself], neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many [stripes].

  • Matthew 12:43

    When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
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