Hebrews 10:36

KJV

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} ye have {G2192} need {G5532} of patience {G5281}, that {G2443}, after ye have done {G4160} the will {G2307} of God {G2316}, ye might receive {G2865} the promise {G1860}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For you need to hold out; so that, by having done what God wills, you may receive what he has promised.

Berean Standard Bible

You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.

American Standard Version

For ye have need of patience, that, having done the will of God, ye may receive the promise.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 10:36 serves as a pivotal exhortation to steadfast endurance for believers facing trials and the temptation to abandon their faith. It underscores the essential requirement of patient perseverance in actively obeying God's revealed will, assuring them that such faithfulness is the prerequisite for ultimately inheriting the full scope of God's promised blessings and eternal reward.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the climactic section of the Epistle to the Hebrews, where the author transitions from theological exposition to practical exhortation. Having meticulously demonstrated the absolute supremacy of Christ's person and priesthood, and the New Covenant's superiority over the Old (especially in [Hebrews 8](/hebrews/8 "Hebrews 8 - The New Covenant") and [Hebrews 9](/hebrews/9 "Hebrews 9 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")), the author has just concluded a profound argument for the once-for-all efficacy of Christ's sacrifice in [Hebrews 10:1-18](/hebrews/10-1-18 "Hebrews 10:1-18 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice"). He then pivots to a series of urgent warnings and encouragements, urging his readers to "draw near with a true heart" ([Hebrews 10:22](/hebrews/10-22 "Hebrews 10:22 - Drawing Near to God")) and "hold fast the profession of our faith" ([Hebrews 10:23](/hebrews/10-23 "Hebrews 10:23 - Holding Fast to Faith")). The immediate preceding verses ([Hebrews 10:32-35](/hebrews/10-32-35 "Hebrews 10:32-35 - Remembering Past Endurance")) recall the readers' past commendable endurance through severe persecution and suffering, reminding them not to "cast away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward." Verse 10:36, therefore, acts as a crucial bridge, reinforcing the necessity of continued steadfastness and active obedience as the means to attain the ultimate, promised reward.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Epistle to the Hebrews was likely addressed to a community of Jewish Christians in Rome or Jerusalem during a period of intense social pressure and potential persecution, possibly under Emperor Domitian (late 1st century AD). These believers were experiencing ostracization, confiscation of property, and public abuse for their confession of Christ (as alluded to in [Hebrews 10:32-34](/hebrews/10-32-34 "Hebrews 10:32-34 - Remembering Past Suffering")). The temptation was strong to revert to Judaism, which was a legally recognized religion (religio licita) within the Roman Empire, thus offering a measure of security and relief from persecution. The author's repeated warnings against "drawing back unto perdition" ([Hebrews 10:39](/hebrews/10-39 "Hebrews 10:39 - Not Drawing Back")) and his emphasis on the superiority of Christ over Mosaic institutions directly address this cultural and religious pressure. The concept of "patience" (endurance) would have resonated deeply with a community facing such sustained hardship, as it required not just passive waiting but active, resilient perseverance in their faith amidst a hostile environment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major themes prevalent throughout the Epistle to the Hebrews. Firstly, the **Necessity of Endurance** (Greek: _hypomonē_) is paramount, emphasizing that Christian faith is not a momentary decision but a lifelong journey requiring steadfastness in the face of trials and delays. This is echoed in [Hebrews 6:12](/hebrews/6-12 "Hebrews 6:12 - Faith and Patience Inherit Promises"), where believers are encouraged to imitate those who "through faith and patience inherit the promises." Secondly, **Active Obedience to God's Will** is highlighted, underscoring that genuine faith is demonstrated through a life of practical righteousness and adherence to divine commands, not merely intellectual assent. This theme is foundational to the New Covenant's call for inward transformation and ethical living ([Hebrews 8:10](/hebrews/8-10 "Hebrews 8:10 - The New Covenant Written on Hearts")). Finally, the **Certainty of God's Promises and Future Reward** serves as the ultimate motivation for perseverance. The "promise" here refers to the eschatological hope of full salvation, eternal inheritance, and the consummation of God's kingdom, a hope that is "an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast" ([Hebrews 6:19](/hebrews/6-19 "Hebrews 6:19 - Hope as an Anchor")). The author consistently points to this future glory as the compelling reason for present faithfulness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Patience (Greek, _hypomonḗ'_):** (G5281) This term signifies more than passive waiting; it denotes cheerful, hopeful endurance and constancy. It describes a resolute fortitude that remains steadfast under pressure, bearing up under difficulty without yielding or abandoning one's faith. It implies an active, tenacious perseverance in the face of trials, opposition, or delay, rather than mere resignation.
* **Will (Greek, _thélēma'_):** (G2307) Derived from a verb meaning "to wish" or "to desire," _thélēma_ refers to a determination, purpose, or decree. In the context of God, it signifies His sovereign design, His active choice, and His revealed commands for humanity. "Doing the will of God" thus implies active obedience to His divine purpose and moral requirements.
* **Promise (Greek, _epangelía'_):** (G1860) This word denotes an announcement, especially a divine assurance of good. In the New Testament, _epangelía_ consistently refers to God's guaranteed future blessings, often encompassing the full scope of salvation, eternal life, the inheritance of the kingdom, and the fulfillment of His covenant purposes for His faithful people. It is a divine pledge that is certain to be fulfilled.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For ye have need of patience,"**: The verse opens with a strong declarative statement, emphasizing the indispensable requirement for "patience" (or endurance) for the audience. The Greek word _chreía_ (need) underscores that this is not optional but a fundamental necessity for navigating the Christian journey, especially in times of trial and waiting. It highlights that the Christian life is not a sprint but a marathon, demanding sustained fortitude.
* **"that, after ye have done the will of God,"**: This clause specifies the purpose and condition for receiving the promise. It clarifies that the "patience" is not a passive state but an active, obedient perseverance. "Doing the will of God" implies living a life of active obedience, aligning one's actions, choices, and entire being with God's revealed commands and purposes. This obedience is the fruit and evidence of genuine faith and endurance.
* **"ye might receive the promise."**: This final clause states the ultimate outcome and motivation for patient obedience. The "promise" refers to the certain, future inheritance and blessings that God has guaranteed to His faithful people. The verb "receive" (Greek: _komízō_) suggests carrying off or obtaining something that is due, emphasizing the certainty of the reward for those who faithfully endure and obey. It points to the eschatological hope that fuels present perseverance.

#### Literary Devices
The author employs **Exhortation** as the primary literary device, directly urging the readers to a specific course of action (having need of patience). This is coupled with **Causality**, indicated by the opening "For" (G1063, _gár_), which connects this verse to the preceding encouragement to hold fast their confidence. The structure also presents a clear **Conditional Statement** or **Purpose Clause** ("that, after ye have done... ye might receive"), outlining the necessary prerequisite (patient obedience) for the promised outcome (receiving the promise). This establishes a logical flow, reinforcing the direct relationship between present faithfulness and future reward. The use of **Figurative Language** is implicit in "patience" as a necessary "need," suggesting it is a vital spiritual resource or virtue without which the Christian journey cannot be successfully completed.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 10:36 is deeply rooted in the broader biblical narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and humanity's call to obedient perseverance. It echoes the Old Testament motif of waiting on the Lord and obeying His commands to inherit blessings, such as the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, which required endurance in the wilderness and obedience to the Law. Theologically, it underscores the synergistic relationship between divine grace and human responsibility: God's promises are secure, but their full reception often requires a season of faithful, active waiting and obedience on the part of the believer. This verse affirms that God's character is one of absolute trustworthiness, and His promises are certain, providing a powerful incentive for believers to remain steadfast even when the fulfillment seems delayed or trials are intense.

* [Luke 21:19](/luke/21-19 "Perseverance in Tribulation")
* [James 1:4](/james/1-4 "The Perfecting Work of Patience")
* [Revelation 2:10](/revelation/2-10 "Be Faithful Unto Death")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 10:36 speaks powerfully to the contemporary believer, reminding us that the Christian life is not always one of instant gratification or immediate resolution. There will be seasons that demand profound patience—not a passive resignation, but an active, hopeful endurance that continues to trust God and obey His will even when circumstances are difficult, answers are delayed, or the path forward is unclear. This verse challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we willing to "do the will of God" consistently, even when it requires sacrifice, discomfort, or goes against the prevailing cultural tide? Do we truly believe that God's "promise" is worth the wait, worth the struggle, worth the sustained commitment? Our perseverance is not merely about gritting our teeth; it is a profound act of faith, demonstrating our conviction that God is faithful and His future reward is supremely valuable. This endurance transforms us, deepening our character and solidifying our trust in His unfailing love and perfect timing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific areas of your life currently require "patience" (active endurance) in waiting on God or in obeying His will?**
* **How does the certainty of God's "promise" motivate you to continue "doing the will of God" even when it is challenging?**
* **In what ways might you be tempted to "cast away your confidence" and abandon active obedience when the "promise" seems distant?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate a more active, patient endurance in your walk with God?**

### FAQ

**What exactly is "the promise" mentioned in Hebrews 10:36?**

Answer: "The promise" (Greek: _epangelía_) in Hebrews 10:36 refers to the full scope of God's guaranteed future blessings for His faithful people. While it encompasses eternal life and salvation, in the context of Hebrews, it particularly points to the ultimate inheritance of God's kingdom, the full realization of His covenant with humanity, and the eschatological rest that awaits believers. It is the consummation of all that God has pledged through Christ, including the experience of His presence and the final vindication of the righteous. The author often speaks of this promise in terms of an "eternal inheritance" ([Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - The Eternal Inheritance")) and a "city which hath foundations" ([Hebrews 11:10](/hebrews/11-10 "Hebrews 11:10 - The City with Foundations")).

**How does "patience" in this verse differ from passive waiting?**

Answer: The Greek word for "patience" here is _hypomonḗ_ (G5281), which is crucial to understand. It is not a passive, resigned waiting for things to happen, but an active, steadfast endurance and perseverance in the face of trials, opposition, or delay. It implies a tenacious bearing up under difficulty, a steady resolve that continues forward despite obstacles. It's the quality of remaining under pressure without giving in or giving up. This active endurance is directly linked to "doing the will of God," meaning it's a patience that is demonstrated through continued obedience and faithfulness, even when the desired outcome is not immediately apparent. It's the kind of perseverance that Jesus exemplified and calls His followers to ([Luke 21:19](/luke/21-19 "Luke 21:19 - Perseverance in Tribulation")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 10:36 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Himself, who perfectly exemplified the very patience and obedience it commends. Christ, "who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")), perfectly "did the will of God" ([Hebrews 10:7](/hebrews/10-7 "Hebrews 10:7 - Christ's Obedience to God's Will")), enduring unimaginable suffering and opposition without wavering. His perfect obedience, culminating in His sacrificial death, was the ultimate act of "doing the will of God" to "receive the promise" – not for Himself in the same way we do, but to secure the promise of eternal life and salvation for all who believe. He is the faithful High Priest who has already entered into the heavenly sanctuary, securing our access to the "promise" ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Greater and More Perfect Tabernacle")). Therefore, our call to patience and obedience is not a burdensome requirement but an invitation to participate in the pattern of Christ's own faithfulness, trusting that because He has already received the ultimate fulfillment, we, as those united to Him, are guaranteed to "receive the promise" through Him ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). He is both the example and the guarantor of our patient endurance and the ultimate recipient of the Father's promised glory, which He now shares with us.

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.

Cross-References

Hebrews 12:1

¶ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Psalms 37:7

¶ Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.

James 5:7

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

James 5:11

Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

1 Corinthians 13:7

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Luke 21:19

In your patience possess ye your souls.

Hebrews 6:15

And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.