Costly Grace

“For if we deliberately keep on sinning after receiving the knowledge of the truth, no further sacrifice for sins is left for us, but only a certain fearful expectation of judgment and a fury of fire that will consume God’s enemies. Someone who rejected the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much greater punishment do you think that person deserves who has contempt for the Son of God, and profanes the blood of the covenant that made him holy, and insults the Spirit of grace? For we know the one who said, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge his people.” It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Hebrews 10:26-31 NET

This passage of scripture prompts profound questions, particularly about the 'why' behind our choices. If we truly grasp the incredible truth that Jesus has become our ultimate sacrifice and that we have direct access to the Heavenly Father through Him, why would we ever consider ignoring or rejecting such knowledge? There is no other source that offers genuine forgiveness. 

The writer of Hebrews emphatically underscores this in previous passages, explaining that the sacrifices of goats and calves lack the power to permanently atone for our sins or clear our consciences. Without Jesus, we’re left to navigate life on our own, facing the harsh realities of the law, which inexorably demands judgment and punishment. Embracing this truth is essential; it's the key to our spiritual freedom and restoration.

Many choose to ignore this undeniable truth, clinging to the idea that Jesus is just a prophet or a well-intentioned man with a message. This perspective not only diminishes His significance but also overlooks His profound impact on the world. The comparisons of Jesus to figures like Mohammed or Buddha undermine His divine nature, portraying Him as just an ordinary man with weaknesses and limitations. This not only insults His deity, but also fails to recognize His extraordinary strength and perfection.

God has enemies, but humanity is not one of them. True enemies are those who have the power to challenge and harm what exists in God’s domain. In this context, humanity is no more an adversary to God than a flea is to a dog. As created beings, we inhabit a physical realm that is fundamentally different from God's eternal domain, which limits our ability to fully comprehend His nature.

Yet, it is essential to recognize that God has already issued His judgment against the devil and his rebellious angels, reserving a place of torment and annihilation for them. Humanity was never intended for such a fate. But our refusal to receive the precious gift of Jesus' sacrifice places us in jeopardy of that same torment. It is not God who casts us into this abyss; we make that choice ourselves by rejecting the truth that offers salvation. This rejection is a conscious decision, and with every choice comes the weight of responsibility.

A person who continues to sin despite knowing about God’s immense mercy through Jesus Christ lacks a true understanding of that transformative power. They have transitioned from spiritual death under the law to vibrant life and freedom in Christ. Yet, they obstruct this powerful transformation by choosing to persist in sin. Their actions distort God’s perfect character of love and forgiveness, reducing it to a mere illusion. In the end, it is the law that will condemn them, for they willfully disregard the incredible sacrifice of Jesus, failing to let the truth wash over and purify their sinful conscience. This is a serious error, one that undermines the very essence of what it means to embrace grace.

Even individuals who rejected the law of Moses faced condemnation based on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Those who defied and disdained God’s law endured severe penalties, including the ultimate punishment of death. While this may appear severe, it underscores a vital truth: the law leads to death, but Jesus provides the gift of life.

Many hold the belief that God's character endorses punitive punishment; however, this perspective starkly contrasts with the profound revelation of mercy and grace embodied in Jesus. So, what is the consequence for those who rebel against or disregard Jesus? I assert that it is to be enveloped by His mercy and grace, regardless of our shortcomings and defiance. Paul powerfully conveys that we are God's children, and we reflect His character when we extend kindness to others. He emphasizes this in Romans: “Do not avenge yourselves, dear friends; instead, make room for God's wrath, for it is written: ‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay,’ says the Lord. Rather, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will be heaping burning coals on his head.” (Romans 12:19-20). This calling to mercy over vengeance not only illustrates God's character but transforms the way we interact with the world around us.

When Moses ascended the mountain and pleaded with God, “Show me your glory,” God responded with profound assurance: “I will make all my goodness pass before your face, and I will proclaim the Lord by name before you; I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious; I will show mercy to whom I will show mercy.” But he added, “You cannot see my face, for no one can see me and live.” The Lord said, “Here is a place by me; you will station yourself on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and will cover you with my hand while I pass by. Then I will take away my hand, and you will see my back, but my face must not be seen.” Exodus 33:19-23

Falling into the hands of the living God is a truly terrifying prospect, primarily due to the overwhelming depth of His goodness towards us. This passage powerfully emphasizes the necessity of grasping the true nature of God.

Stephen Barnett