Journal: Journal of Ministry and Theology
Volume: JMAT 06:2 (Fall 2002)
Article: Trampling the Son of God Under Foot: The Warning of Hebrews 10:26-31
Author: Rodney J. Decker

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JMAT 6:2 (Fall 02) p. 30

Trampling the Son of God
Under Foot: The Warning of Hebrews 10:26-31

Rodney J. Decker

Associate Professor of Greek and New Testament
Baptist Bible Seminary, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania

Regardless of how one understands the warning of Hebrews 10:26–31, it is not only a difficult passage, but also a somber warning. The crux lies in the identification of the consequences specified. The overall thrust of the argument may be illustrated as follows.

γάρ no sacrifice remains

δέ judgment does remain

Illustration: old covenant

Comparison: greater grace spurned is more worthy of judgment

γάρ we know what God is like

Conclusion: It is a fearful thing …

Interpretive Options

The range of approaches to the conundrums of Hebrews 10:26–31 are the same as for the similar passage in Hebrews 6.1 These have been discussed and documented earlier and will not be repeated here in detail. In summary, the two major interpretive positions include the Arminian view which argues that the text refers to genuine believers who may forfeit regeneration by willful sin. Representatives of this position include McKnight, Shank, and Marshall.2 The second major view understands that the reference is to those who professed faith in Christ, but were not genuinely regener-

JMAT 6:2 (Fall 02) p. 31

ated. This is characteristic of Reformed expositors such as Nicole and Hughes.3 This paper will seek to show, to the contrary, that neither position is necessary. Instead it will be argued that the passage is addressed to genuine believers who are warned against pursuing a course of action that would result in severe judgment (though not loss of salvation).

Exegetical Observations

This section will address selected exegetical issues that are relevant to a resolution of the problems posed by Hebrews 10:26–31.

Addressees

The paragraph is introduced with γάρ, implying a connection with the previous text (vv. 19–25).4 This is fre...

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