Hebrews 10:38 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 10:38 mean?

Hebrews 10:38 states that those who are considered righteous ("the just") are expected to live their lives by trusting in God ("by faith"), but if someone turns away or shrinks back from this trust, God will not be pleased with them. The verse draws a sharp line between living by faith and the danger of abandoning that trust.

The writer of Hebrews is addressing Jewish Christians who are under pressure and may be tempted to give up their faith because of hardship. By quoting this principle, the author encourages them to keep trusting God even when it is difficult, warning that turning away is displeasing to God. This sets up the following verses, which urge perseverance and highlight the importance of faith.

The Greek behind Hebrews 10:38

• δίκαιος (dikaios, "just"): This word refers to someone who is upright or righteous, not just in a legal sense but in their way of life. The verse is not about a one-time act but an ongoing way of living.
• ζήσεται (zēsetai, "shall live"): The Greek word here means to have life or to go on living, emphasizing a continuous, active trust in God rather than a single moment of belief.
• πίστις (pistis, "faith"): This term means trust, confidence, or reliance. The focus is on a relationship of trust with God, not just intellectual agreement.
• ὑποστείληται (huposteilētai, "draw back"): This word can mean to shrink back, withdraw, or retreat. It paints a picture of someone pulling away from faith, which is contrasted with the idea of living by faith.

Why Hebrews 10:38 matters

• Hebrews 10:38 clarifies that faith is not just a one-time decision but an ongoing way of living, especially in difficult times.
• The verse warns against the real danger of turning away from faith, showing that perseverance is essential and that God cares deeply about continued trust.
• This verse connects the themes of faith and endurance in the wider context of Hebrews, preparing readers for the famous examples of faith in chapter 11.