Hebrews 9:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 9:28
28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
Chapter Context
Hebrews 9 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, covenant, mercy. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 9:28
28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
Analysis
Christ 'was offered once to bear the sins of many.' The phrase echoes Isaiah 53:12 - He bore sin as substitute, enduring its penalty in our place. The 'many' indicates the elect, those for whom His sacrifice effectually atones. He 'will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation to those who eagerly wait for Him.' The second coming isn't to deal with sin again (that's finished) but to consummate salvation begun at His first coming. Reformed eschatology distinguishes Christ's two advents with different purposes.
Historical Context
The two-advent pattern fulfills the Day of Atonement type: the high priest entered the Most Holy Place (Christ's ascension), and the people waited for his emergence to know atonement was accepted (Christ's return). His reappearance confirms completed atonement.
Reflection
- How does Christ's bearing the sins of 'many' (not all) relate to the effectiveness of His atonement?
- What does it mean that Christ will appear 'apart from sin' at His return, and how should this affect how you live now?
Word Studies
- Sin: ἁμαρτία (Hamartia) G266 - Sin, missing the mark
Cross-References
- Salvation: Isaiah 25:9, Titus 2:13
- Sin: Matthew 26:28, Romans 6:10, 1 Peter 2:24
- Parallel theme: Acts 1:11, Romans 8:23, 1 Thessalonians 1:10, 2 Timothy 4:8, 1 John 3:2