Hebrews 10:31
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It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
fearful . . . to fall into the hands--It is good like David to fall into the hands of God, rather than man, when one does so with filial faith in his father's love, though God chastises him. "It is fearful" to fall into His hands as a reprobate and presumptuous sinner doomed to His just vengeance as Judge (Heb 10:27). living God--therefore able to punish for ever (Mat 10:28).
Open source ↗The apostle knew very well that the Hebrews, to whom he wrote, were strangely fond of the Levitical dispensation, and therefore he fills his mouth with arguments to wean them from it; and in order thereto proceeds in this chapter, I. To lay low the whole of that priesthood and sacrifice (Heb 10:1-6). II. He raises and exalts the priesthood of Christ very high, that he might effectually recommend him and his gospel to them (Heb 10:7-18). III. He shows to believers the honours and dignities of their state, and calls them to suitable duties (Heb 10:19 to the end).
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear the One who, after you have been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him!
“For our God is a consuming fire.”
The sinners in Zion are afraid; trembling grips the ungodly: “Who of us can dwell with a consuming fire? Who of us can dwell with everlasting flames?”
You alone are to be feared. When You are angry, who can stand before You?
Who knows the power of Your anger? Your wrath matches the fear You are due.
Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume all adversaries.
Now consider this, you who forget God, lest I tear you to pieces, with no one to rescue you:
There will be great earthquakes, famines, and pestilences in various places, along with fearful sights and great signs from heaven.