Hebrews 10:37

KJV

For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} yet {G2089} a little {G3397} while {G3745}{G3745}, and he that shall come {G2064} will come {G2240}, and {G2532} will {G5549} not {G3756} tarry {G5549}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For

“There is so, so little time!
The One coming will indeed come,
he will not delay.

Berean Standard Bible

For, “In just a little while, He who is coming will come and will not delay.

American Standard Version

For yet a very little while, He that cometh shall come, and shall not tarry.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 10:37 delivers a profound declaration of divine faithfulness and eschatological certainty, assuring believers that the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ, will return precisely at the appointed time, without any delay from God's perspective. This verse, a powerful adaptation of an Old Testament prophecy, serves as a cornerstone for endurance, urging the original audience and contemporary readers alike to persevere in faith amidst trials, grounded in the unwavering hope of Christ's imminent and decisive second coming.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the latter, hortatory section of the Epistle to the Hebrews, following a lengthy theological exposition (chapters 1-9) on the superiority of Christ's person and His new covenant work. Specifically, Hebrews 10:19-39 constitutes a passionate appeal for perseverance and a warning against apostasy. The author has just exhorted his readers to "hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering" (/hebrews/10-23 "Hebrews 10:23 - Hold Fast to Faith") and to "consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works" (/hebrews/10-24 "Hebrews 10:24 - Mutual Encouragement"). The immediate preceding verse, [Hebrews 10:36](/hebrews/10-36 "Hebrews 10:36 - The Need for Patience"), emphasizes the "need of patience" to receive "the promise." Hebrews 10:37 then provides the foundational reason for such patience and steadfastness: the absolute certainty of Christ's return, which will bring about the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate reward for those who endure.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The recipients of the Epistle to the Hebrews were likely Jewish Christians facing intense persecution and social ostracism, potentially even contemplating a return to Judaism to escape suffering. This context explains the author's repeated warnings against "drawing back" (/hebrews/10-38 "Hebrews 10:38 - Living by Faith") and his emphasis on the superiority of Christ over the Old Covenant institutions. The concept of a "coming one" was deeply ingrained in Jewish messianic expectation, drawing from prophecies like [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign") and [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming"). The specific quotation in Hebrews 10:37 is from [Habakkuk 2:3](/habakkuk/2-3 "Habakkuk 2:3 - The Vision Will Surely Come"), a prophecy originally given to a people awaiting God's judgment and deliverance, who were tempted to despair due to perceived divine delay. The author of Hebrews masterfully recontextualizes this ancient promise, applying it to the ultimate "coming" of the Messiah, thereby addressing the contemporary anxieties and temptations of his audience.
* **Key Themes:** Hebrews 10:37 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the epistle. Firstly, it underscores the **Certainty of Divine Promise and Fulfillment**, asserting that God's word regarding Christ's return is absolutely dependable, even if human perception suggests otherwise. Secondly, it highlights **Eschatological Hope and Perseverance**, providing a strong motivation for believers to endure suffering and resist apostasy, knowing that their ultimate vindication and reward are guaranteed by the Lord's imminent arrival. This hope is not a vague wish but a concrete expectation that fuels present faithfulness, as seen in the broader exhortations of [Hebrews 10](/hebrews/10 "Hebrews 10 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice and Exhortation to Persevere"). Thirdly, it reinforces the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Perfect Timing**, emphasizing that Christ's return will occur precisely when God has ordained it, regardless of human impatience or perceived delay, a concept echoed in [2 Peter 3:8-9](/2_peter/3-8-9 "2 Peter 3:8-9 - God's Timeless Perspective").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **yet (Greek, _éti'_):** This particle signifies "still" or "yet," indicating a continuation of a state or an additional point in time. In the context of "yet a little while," it emphasizes that the period of waiting, though perhaps feeling long to human experience, is inherently limited and drawing to a close from God's eternal perspective. It subtly acknowledges the present reality of waiting while pointing to its finite nature.
* **come (Greek, _érchomai'_):** This verb, used in the participle "he that shall come" (ὁ ἐρχόμενος), is a common and significant messianic title in the New Testament. It denotes "to come or go" in a great variety of applications, both literal and figurative. Here, it specifically refers to the expected, destined arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, in His second advent. The use of the present participle suggests an ongoing state of "the one who is coming," reinforcing the active expectation of His return.
* **will come (Greek, _hḗkō'_):** Distinct from _érchomai_, this verb means "to arrive" or "to be present." When paired with _érchomai_ ("he that shall come will come"), it creates a powerful emphasis on the certainty and actualization of the arrival. It moves beyond the expectation of "the coming one" to the definitive statement that "he will indeed arrive." This combination underscores the absolute certainty of the event, leaving no room for doubt about its occurrence.
* **tarry (Greek, _chronízō'_):** Derived from _chronos_ (time), this verb means "to take time," "to linger," or "to delay." The negative "will not tarry" (οὐ χρονίσει) emphatically declares that Christ's return will not be subject to any actual delay or procrastination from God's side. While it may seem long to human perception, God's timing is perfect and precise, ensuring that the event will unfold exactly as ordained, without lingering beyond its appointed moment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For yet a little while,"**: This opening phrase serves as a temporal marker and a word of encouragement. It acknowledges the current period of waiting and potentially suffering, but frames it as "a little while" from God's eternal perspective. This perspective is crucial for the enduring believer, as it minimizes the perceived length of present trials and maximizes the anticipation of future glory. It sets the stage for the certainty that follows, implying that the time for divine intervention is short.
* **"and he that shall come will come,"**: This is the core declaration of certainty. "He that shall come" (ὁ ἐρχόμενος) is a well-established messianic title referring unequivocally to Jesus Christ. The repetition of the coming ("will come") emphasizes the absolute, undeniable nature of His arrival. It is not merely a possibility or a hopeful wish, but a divine decree that will be fulfilled. This clause serves as the bedrock of the believer's hope, assuring them that the Lord's return is a guaranteed event.
* **"and will not tarry."**: This final clause reinforces the previous one by negating any notion of delay. While human beings might perceive a "tarrying" or a long wait, from God's perspective, there will be no unrighteous or unexpected delay. Christ's return will occur precisely at the divinely appointed time. This assurance combats the potential for weariness, doubt, or even apostasy that might arise from the perceived slowness of God's timetable, affirming His perfect punctuality and faithfulness to His promises.

#### Literary Devices
Hebrews 10:37 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Quotation/Allusion**, as the verse is a direct, though slightly adapted, quotation from [Habakkuk 2:3](/habakkuk/2-3 "Habakkuk 2:3 - The Vision Will Surely Come"). This use of Old Testament scripture lends significant authority and continuity to the author's argument, demonstrating that Christ's return is not a new concept but the fulfillment of ancient prophecy. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Emphasis through Repetition**, particularly with the phrase "will come," which reinforces the absolute certainty and inevitability of the Messiah's arrival. The combination of "he that shall come" (ὁ ἐρχόμενος) with "will come" (ἥξει) creates a powerful rhetorical effect, moving from the identity of the expected one to the assurance of His actual presence. There is also an element of **Antithesis** or **Contrast** implied between human perception and divine reality. While "yet a little while" acknowledges the human experience of waiting, the declaration "will not tarry" directly counters any notion of actual delay from God's side, highlighting the difference between finite human time and God's eternal timing. Finally, the phrase "he that shall come" functions as a potent **Messianic Title**, immediately identifying the subject as the Christ, the long-awaited deliverer, thereby imbuing the verse with profound theological significance for the Christian audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 10:37 stands as a powerful theological anchor, affirming the absolute certainty of Christ's return and its implications for Christian living. It underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, particularly the ultimate promise of the consummation of His kingdom through the second advent of His Son. This certainty is not merely a theological doctrine but a practical impetus for endurance, reminding believers that their present sufferings are temporary and their future glory is assured. The verse connects the Old Testament prophetic vision of a coming deliverer to the New Testament reality of Jesus Christ, demonstrating the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout history. It calls believers to live with an eschatological mindset, where the hope of Christ's return shapes their present actions, motivates perseverance, and guards against spiritual complacency or apostasy. The "little while" emphasizes that the time of waiting, though it may feel long, is finite and purposeful within God's perfect timeline.

* [Philippians 4:5](/philippians/4-5 "Philippians 4:5 - The Lord is at Hand")
* [James 5:7-8](/james/5-7-8 "James 5:7-8 - Patience Until the Lord's Coming")
* [Revelation 22:20](/revelation/22-20 "Revelation 22:20 - Maranatha: Come, Lord Jesus!")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 10:37 offers profound encouragement for every believer navigating the complexities of life in a fallen world. It reminds us that our ultimate hope is not rooted in fleeting earthly circumstances or the stability of human institutions, but in the unwavering promise of our Lord's return. In moments of weariness, doubt, or persecution, this verse serves as a powerful antidote, urging us to fix our gaze on the horizon of Christ's coming. The "little while" should reshape our perspective on suffering, transforming it from an endless burden into a temporary trial, endured with the certain expectation of a glorious future. Knowing that "He that shall come will come, and will not tarry" should ignite a renewed passion for living faithfully, patiently, and purposefully. It calls us to resist the temptation to "draw back" from our confession or to grow complacent, instead spurring us on to greater diligence in our walk with God, knowing that our steadfastness will be abundantly rewarded at His appearing. This promise compels us to live in a state of watchful readiness, actively pursuing holiness and service, as we eagerly await the day when our faith will be transformed into sight.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of Christ's return impact your daily decisions and long-term priorities?**
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to "tarry" or lose patience, and how can the truth of this verse strengthen your endurance?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live in a state of watchful readiness for the Lord's coming, rather than spiritual complacency?**

### FAQ
**Does "yet a little while" mean Christ's return is imminent, or has it been delayed?**

Answer: The phrase "yet a little while" (G3397 _mikrón_ G3745 _hósos_) from God's perspective signifies that the period of waiting is finite and relatively short, even if it spans centuries in human time. It emphasizes the certainty and divine punctuality of Christ's return, not a human understanding of imminence. The original prophecy in [Habakkuk 2:3](/habakkuk/2-3 "Habakkuk 2:3 - The Vision Will Surely Come") also spoke of a vision that would "surely come" and "not tarry," even though it seemed to delay. The New Testament writers, inspired by the Holy Spirit, understood that God's timeline is not bound by human perception ([2 Peter 3:8](/2_peter/3-8 "2 Peter 3:8 - A Day is as a Thousand Years")). Therefore, "will not tarry" means there will be no actual delay from God's perfect plan; Christ will return precisely at the appointed time, which is "a little while" from an eternal viewpoint.

**Who is "he that shall come" in this verse?**

Answer: In the context of the New Testament, particularly the Epistle to the Hebrews, "he that shall come" (ὁ ἐρχόμενος, _ho erchomenos_) unequivocally refers to Jesus Christ. This is a common messianic title used throughout the Gospels and Acts to identify the long-awaited Messiah, the one who was prophesied to come and establish God's kingdom. For example, when John the Baptist sent his disciples to ask Jesus if He was "the one who is to come" ([Matthew 11:3](/matthew/11-3 "Matthew 11:3 - Are You the Coming One?")), he used this same Greek phrase. In Hebrews, this title emphasizes Christ's ultimate authority, His role as the High Priest, and His future return to consummate His redemptive work and bring believers into their eternal inheritance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 10:37 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is both the "He that shall come" and the guarantee of His own return. The Old Testament prophecy from [Habakkuk 2:3](/habakkuk/2-3 "Habakkuk 2:3 - The Vision Will Surely Come"), originally concerning a vision that would certainly come to pass, is here applied definitively to the Messiah. Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), has already "come" in His first advent, fulfilling countless prophecies through His incarnation, sinless life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection. Yet, Hebrews 10:37 points primarily to His **second coming**, the ultimate "coming" that will bring to completion all of God's redemptive purposes. He is the one who ascended to heaven and promised to return ([Acts 1:11](/acts/1-11 "Acts 1:11 - Jesus' Ascension and Promise to Return")), the Great High Priest who has entered the true sanctuary ([Hebrews 9:24](/hebrews/9-24 "Hebrews 9:24 - Christ's Heavenly Ministry")) and will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him ([Hebrews 9:28](/hebrews/9-28 "Hebrews 9:28 - Christ's Second Appearing")). Thus, the "little while" is the period between His first and second advents, a divinely appointed time during which the church is called to persevere. The assurance that He "will not tarry" is a testament to Christ's faithfulness and the perfection of God's timing, ensuring that the consummation of all things, the final defeat of evil, and the full establishment of His eternal kingdom will occur precisely as ordained by the sovereign Son of God, the Alpha and Omega ([Revelation 1:8](/revelation/1-8 "Revelation 1:8 - Jesus, the Alpha and Omega")).

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

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 5:9

Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

Habakkuk 2:3

For the vision [is] yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

Habakkuk 2:4

Behold, his soul [which] is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

Luke 18:8

I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

Isaiah 26:20

¶ Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.

Isaiah 60:22

A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it in his time.