Hebrews 10 - Introduction

THERE are two parts of this chapter. The first concerneth the necessity and efficacy of the sacrifice of Christ; from the beginning unto Hebrews 10:18. The other is an improvement of the doctrine of it unto faith, obedience, and perseverance; from Hebrews 10:19 to the end of the chapter.

Of the first general proposition of the subject to be treated of there are two parts:

1. A demonstration of the insufficiency of legal sacrifices for the expiation of sin, Hebrews 10:1-4;

2. A declaration of the necessity and efficacy of the sacrifice of Christ unto that end, Hebrews 10:5-18. Of this declaration there are two parts:

(1.) The substitution of the sacrifice of Christ in the place and room of all legal sacrifices, because of its efficacy unto the end which they could not attain, and without which the church could not be saved, Hebrews 10:5-10.

(2.) A final comparison of his priesthood and sacrifice with those of the law, and their absolute preference above them, unto Hebrews 10:18.

In the first particular of the first general part, there are three things:

[1.] An assertion of the insufficiency of legal sacrifices unto the expiation of sin, wherein a reason of it also is included, Hebrews 10:1.

[2.] A confirmation of the truth of that assertion, from the consideration of the frequency of their repetition, which manifestly evidenceth that insufficiency, Hebrews 10:2-3.

[3.] A general reason taken from the nature of them, or the matter whereof they did consist, Hebrews 10:4. The first of these is contained in the first verse.