February 26 Hebrews 9:28
Hebrews 9:28 (ESV):
“So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.”
Commentary:
This verse encapsulates two key aspects of Christ’s work: His past sacrifice and His future return.
1. Christ’s Sacrifice (First Coming):
• The phrase “having been offered once to bear the sins of many” underscores the sufficiency and finality of Christ’s sacrifice. Unlike the Old Testament system of repeated animal sacrifices, Jesus’ single offering on the cross fully atoned for sin (Hebrews 9:12, 10:10).
• The phrase “to bear the sins of many” echoes Isaiah 53:12, reinforcing the idea that Jesus took upon Himself the punishment that humanity deserved.
2. Christ’s Return (Second Coming):
• The second part of the verse shifts focus to the future: “will appear a second time.” This is a clear reference to the Second Coming of Christ, a central doctrine in Christian eschatology.
• Unlike His first coming, which dealt with sin through His atoning death, His return is “not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.” This refers to the consummation of salvation—bringing believers into full redemption, including resurrection and eternal life in God’s presence (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Revelation 21:3-4).
Application:
• Assurance of Salvation: Believers can have confidence that Christ’s sacrifice was sufficient, and there is no need for any additional atonement.
• Hope and Expectation: The verse calls Christians to live with eager anticipation of Christ’s return, reinforcing a life of faithfulness, perseverance, and readiness (Titus 2:13).
• Encouragement in Trials: In a world of suffering, this verse reminds believers that ultimate salvation is still to come, bringing encouragement to remain steadfast.
We all suffer something from time to time. While it is often true that our own suffering may be insignificant in comparison with the many whose suffering is much worse; none the less we must deal with our own. I partly deal with mine as a friend once said he likes the scripture “and it came to pass.” So it has been, short or long most has ended. And this scripture reminds me that it will all end!
How do you deal with the suffering in your life?
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