What does Hebrews 10:38 mean?

Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. Hebrews 10:38

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 10:38 carries a deep message of faith and perseverance. The first part, “Now the just shall live by faith,” affirms that righteousness in the eyes of God comes through faith — a consistent theme in the New Testament. This calls for a faith that is not passive but one that is lived out actively and persistently. The notion of the “just” or “righteous” person living by faith is a foundational concept in Christian theology, inspired by Habakkuk 2:4, which is cited multiple times in the New Testament.

The second part, “but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him,” issues a stark warning. Drawing back or turning away from faith is seen as a grave concern, leading to displeasure from God. This speaks to the seriousness of apostasy (abandoning one’s faith) and highlights the importance of perseverance and commitment to one’s faith in spite of challenges and adversities.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and hardship because of their faith in Jesus Christ. The exact date and author of this epistle remain uncertain, with suggestions ranging from before AD 70 to the latter part of the first century. During that era, many believers were tempted to renounce their faith to avoid persecution or to return to the more familiar rituals and traditions of Judaism. Hebrews 10:38 thus serves as an exhortation to stand firm in their new faith, affirming that true life comes through faith in Christ, not through the old covenant practices.

Theological Insights

Within Christian theology, different traditions may emphasize varying aspects of this verse:

• Protestant Perspective: Reflecting Martin Luther’s assertion that justification comes by faith alone, this passage reinforces the Protestant belief that one’s relationship with God is defined by faith, not by works.
• Roman Catholic Perspective: Although affirming the necessity of faith, Catholic theology might also point to the continuity of faith with works and the role of the Church in sustaining the believer’s life of faith.
• Orthodox Perspective: The Eastern Orthodox approach might highlight the process of theosis or deification, where living by faith is part of a transformative journey towards becoming like God in character.

Practical Applications

The message of Hebrews 10:38 can be applied in the following ways:

• Perseverance: Encouragement for believers to persist in faith despite difficulties, trusting that faith will see them through tough times.
• Diligence: Motivation to not become complacent, but to actively live out and practice one’s faith daily.
• Warning: A reminder to examine one’s life and avoid the temptation to ‘draw back’ from faith commitments.

Cross-References

• Habakkuk 2:4: “Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.”
• Romans 1:17: “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”
• Galatians 3:11: “But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek language of this verse are:

• “just” (dikaios): Referring to being righteous or justifiable in the eyes of God.
• “shall live” (zēsetai): Implies not just the act of living but living in a certain manner or quality of life.
• “by faith” (ek pisteōs): Speaking of the source or means by which this life is lived.
• “draw back” (hyposteilētai): Means to shrink back, withdraw, or retreat, indicating a reversal in commitment.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient religions and myths, perseverance and faithfulness to the gods often earned favor and blessings, while apostasy could invite wrath or abandonment. The Hebrews 10:38 verse similarly emphasizes loyalty and steadfastness but is unique in focusing on faith in a singular God unmediated by ritual or priesthoods in the same way as in other faith traditions of the time.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific angle to the concept of living by faith or the spiritual consequences of apostasy. However, the psychological impact of faith and belief systems on human behavior and resilience is a subject of study in psychology. These studies examine how faith can provide a coping mechanism during adversity, which resonates with the practical applications of this verse.

Commentaries

Commentators generally affirm the view that Hebrews 10:38 underscores the centrality of faith in the Christian life. Matthew Henry’s commentary interprets the verse as a call to steadfastness and a warning against apostasy. The Expositor’s Greek Testament notes the contrast between those who live by faith and those who draw back, emphasizing the gravitas of continuing in faith. John Calvin, in his commentaries, stresses the importance of enduring in faith and perceives drawing back as a perilous spiritual state. Contemporary scholars often see this verse as a key theological foundation for understanding the Christian concept of righteous living through faith.