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For in reality we only become partakers of the Christ1 if we hold on to the fundamentals we had at the beginning2 steadfast until the finish.3
| 1 | For in reality we only become partakers of the Christ: [MOF] Or, RHM partners; WMS: real sharers; MON: comrades; PME: continue to share in all that Christ has for us. Such partaking is conditional as Paul goes on to explain. |
| 2 | If we hold on to the fundamentals we had at the beginning: [BAS] Or, TCN: unshaken to the end, the confidence that we had at the first; BER: original assurance; BAS: keep the substance of the faith we had at the start. The Greek here for “fundamentals” is HYPO-STASEOS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #5287], sub-standing, sub-stance. On the words “grasp hard” compare: KJV: hold; TCN: retain; WEY: really hold; BER: maintain firmly; WMS: keep firm. On this matter of fundamentals compare the notes on Hebrews 6:1. Note a related Greek word at Hebrews 11:1. Salvation for the Christian is conditioned or qualified upon obedience to God. |
| 3 | Steadfast until the finish: [KJV] Or, TCN: unshaken; WEY: firm to the end; BER: maintain firmly; MON: first title deed firm unto the very end. Compare notes on Romans 11:22. [2 Corinthians 3:4; Revelation 2:10] See the Nazarene’s teachings and the notes on Matthew 24:13. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose Hebrews 3:14 as the theme verse of chapter three – Remaining Steadfast. Having stressed the need to pay attention to God’s Spokesman Christ, Paul now emphasizes they need of each Christian to continue steadfast. Partakers of a heavenly calling must continue to thoughtfully consider Jesus. [1-6] As an Apostle and High Priest Jesus is more glorious than Moses. Christ was faithful and so Paul writes, “[We are partakers] … only if we continue steadfast in our confident boasting regarding the Hope until a finish.”
Paul uses the Israelites as an example of a people who failed to enter God’s Rest because they hardened their hearts. [7-11] He references Psalm 95:7-11. Though saving Israel out of Egypt God later “became disgusted with this generation.” Just so Christians must be on guard against ever developing a wicked heart. [12-15] Such an unbelieving heart will lead only to apostasy from God. It is the “seduction of sin” that will cause such hardening. Christians only partake of Christ if they continue to keep a tight grip on the original substance of the Faith.
The Israelites heard and yet provoked God. [16-19] Paul asks questions regarding those who went forth out of Egypt. Why did they die in the wilderness? Because of their sin God swore they would never enter into “His rest.” A lack of faith or disbelief will cause a person never to enter God’s Rest.
Abba our Father bless the Faithful.
[14 August 2002]
If we persevere to the end. The Israelites started well, but did not persevere. The only final perseverance of the saints is to persevere until the work of life is over.
