Hebrews 10:26-31: Judgement on Those who Despise the Gospel

Last week we examined the carrot, Why should you hold fast to Christ? Well, based on the amazing results of His sacrifice and priesthood we should draw near in faith because of the access He has made; hold fast to the hope which is guaranteed; and stir one another up in love by meeting together. Today we examine the stick, What will happen to those who forsake Christ, rejecting the gospel for something else? The answer is judgement! Our verses are the 4th of five warning passages in Hebrews, 2:1-4; 3:7-14; 6:4-8; 10:26-31, and 12:25-29. If Hebrews 6 are the most worrying because they talk about not being renewed to repentance, apostasy being a sin that some wont come back from; then these in 10:26-31 are the most terrifying for their clear promises that God will judge those who despise the gospel of His Son. This is a message that every Christian must take to heart. God has given His best in His Son, and to pour scorn on His best guarantees final judgement. There are many positive incentives in the Christian life. There is more grace and beauty in God to satisfy our sinful heart and even our glorified hearts for all eternity. But at times we don’t guard our hearts; we don’t turn them to the ravishing glories and beauties of the gospel. So, if the sweet honey of the goodness of God in the gospel does not catch your attention God in His kindness has firmer methods to bring you to your senses. Sometimes the Lord disciplines us. Or as here in these warning passages we hear the Lord’s parental warnings underscored with the power of His promises. We have three points as we look into these warnings of judgement for those who despise the gospel by apostatizing. In v26-27 we will see the consequence of judgement; in v28-29 the reasons for judgement; and in v30-31 the certainty of judgement.