And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.
HEBREWS 12:27KJVWhat does Hebrews 12:27 mean?
Hebrews 12:27 explains that when God says, "Yet once more," it means He will remove created things that can be shaken, so that only what cannot be shaken will remain. The verse points to a coming change where temporary things are taken away, leaving only what is lasting and unshakable.
The writer of Hebrews is addressing Jewish Christians, reminding them of God's promise to shake not just the earth but also the heavens. This refers back to earlier Scripture and signals a time when God will separate what is temporary from what is eternal. The verse reassures believers that while created things may be unstable, God's kingdom and promises are secure.
The Greek behind Hebrews 12:27
- "removing" (μετάθεσις, metathesis): This word means a change or removal. Here, it highlights the idea that God is actively taking away things that are not permanent, not just letting them fade away.
- "shaken" (σαλεύω, saleuō): This word means to shake or disturb. The verse uses it to describe things that are unstable or temporary, showing a contrast with what is firm and lasting.
- "remain" (μένω, menō): This word means to stay or continue. It emphasizes that after everything unstable is removed, what is truly lasting will endure.
Why Hebrews 12:27 matters
- Hebrews 12:27 clarifies that not everything in the world is permanent; only what is rooted in God’s promises will last, which helps readers understand the difference between temporary and eternal things.
- The verse connects to the larger theme in Hebrews of God establishing a new, unshakable covenant, encouraging believers to put their trust in what cannot be shaken.
- It clears up confusion about God’s actions: the "shaking" is not random destruction, but a purposeful removal of what is temporary, so that what truly matters will remain.