The Hebrews to whom this book was written were in a defining time, they were faced with the decision of holding fast to their faith in Jesus and His new covenant priesthood or returning to second temple Judaism. Having already established in previous chapters the truth that Jesus is the Son of God, the promised Messiah, the propitiation for the sins of both Jew and Gentile alike, as well as identified the statutes of the new covenant of which Jesus is the High priest, the writer boldly states that one can lose the reward of eternal rest if they fall away. “For [it is] impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put [Him] to an open shame.” (v. 4-6) This passage is stating simply that if the believers return to Judaism and the law they will not inherit salvation. The veil had been torn between humanity and God when Christ paid for sin at the cross, replacing the old covenant with the new covenant, thus, forsaking Jesus would lead to eternal damnation.
This chapter not only shows the harsh circumstances for falling away but it also exemplifies the mercy of God and His desire for His people to return to Him in repentance. Jesus faced more persecution than they could possibly imagine, yet He remained faithful to the Father. Therefore, the Lord requires the same response from His people. He doesn’t distance Himself from their weakness though, Jesus, through the cross is well acquainted with their suffering and ultimately compassionate with them. “God [is] not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, [in that] you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” (v.10) Therefore, it is possible for one to harden ones heart to the point of no return, but even in that place, the Lord longs to restore that heart into Himself because His mercy triumphs over judgement.
Memoirs of a Forerunner... 