Thursday 8 October 2026
- Bible Book:
- Hebrews
But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today’, so that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. (v. 13)
Background
In this passage, the author continues his exhortation to his readers. Having reminded them to hold firm (3:6), here he reinforces the call by citing a text from Psalm 95 (vs 7b-11). This begins a larger section that unpacks the significance of entering the ‘rest’ of God. While in the wilderness, the rest was associated with the Promised Land. Here the rest is a symbol for the abundant life found in God, something promised for the future, but which can now be experienced in Jesus Christ.
In a similar way to Paul in 1 Corinthians 10 (vs 6-13), the author presents the wilderness journey – with all its temptations and trials – as an image for the experiences of Christians in the world. In the in-between time between Christ’s coming and his future return, Christians seek to enter God’s rest in a world blighted by sin and suffering.
Having cited Psalm 95, the author warns the readers against having an "evil, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God." (v. 12) Hebrews is well-known for including a number of ‘warning passages’ (cf Hebrews 6:4-8; 10:26-31), suggesting that falling away from salvation is a real possibility. But the author’s desire is to warn against such a tragedy, and he encourages Christians to spend time in Christian community to prevent it. Christians, then, need to ‘exhort one another every day’ (v. 13).
The importance of Christian community has been emphasised throughout all Christian traditions, including within Methodism. John Wesley recognised the significance of meeting together when he established classes and bands as well as his societies. Close relationships with other Christians are key for growing in holiness.
In the final verse (v. 14), the author links keeping the faith to remaining partners with Christ. Christ went ahead of us as the ‘pioneer and perfector of our faith’ (12:2), and we share in such faith as we remain faithful to our calling.
To Ponder:
- In what ways have you experienced life as a ‘wilderness’?
- What forms of Christian community or friendship help you to remain faithful to Jesus?
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Ed Mackenzie
Ed Mackenzie works at Cliff College as the Programme Lead for the BA in Theology and Mission and the Senior Lecturer in New Testament Studies and Biblical Theology.