Topic(s): Forgiveness, God's Mercy

Todd Clippard

If Hebrews 10:26 were to be understood in the absolute sense, then few, (if any) could ever go to heaven. I believe most of us have committed some act that we knew was a sin at the time of commission. 1 John 1:9 places no such restriction on forgiveness. That is, it doesn't say, "If we confess the sins we committed in ignorance, He is faithful and just to forgive." Verse 7 of that same chapter would also present some difficulties to that application of Hebrews 10:26.

How would Peter ever be forgiven? Jesus foretold his sin, he committed the sin, and yet went on to preach the first gospel sermon to both Jews and Gentiles (not to mention getting special consideration following the resurrection - Mark 16:7). As far as that goes, all the apostles fled from Jesus as He predicted, and in fulfillment of prophecy (Mark 14:27; Zechariah 13:7), how would they be forgiven?

Hebrews 10:26 refers to the sin of forsaking the assembly, thus showing disdain for the church and the blood of Christ which purchased the church (Acts 20:28). When one shows such disrespect for this Divine institution, there is no forgiveness for any sin.