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The references in Hebrews to the New Jerusalem form an integral part of the teaching
of that epistle, and are not brought in by the way or merely to enforce a point, as is the
reference in Galatians. We cannot hope to appreciate the place of the New Jerusalem in
the Divine scheme if we are ignorant of or hazy regarding the outline of Hebrews as a
whole.
Chapters 1: and 2: ranged under the heading, "The word spoken", and
Chapters 13: 25- and 13: under the heading, "Him that speaketh".
The remainder, that is the bulk of the epistle, is concerned with two alternatives, "On
to Perfection" (3: - 6:) and "Back to Perdition" (10: 19 - 12: 25-), with a great
explanatory section which may be headed, "Perfection; where found".
Now the references to the New Jerusalem are found in Heb. 11: and 12:, consequently
a fuller analysis of this and the corresponding section, 3: - 6:, is called for.
Hebrews 3: - 6:
ON TO PERFECTION. |
Let us come boldly.
Example of unbelief.
Perfect 5: babes.
No renewal unto repentance.
Senses exercised.
Crucify afresh the Son of God.
Hebrews 10: 19 - 12: 25.
BACK TO PERDITION. |
Let us draw near.
Example of faith.
Sons 5: firstborn.
Found no place for repentance.
Discipline exercised.
Trod under foot the Son of God.
The example of unbelief in Heb. 3: and 4: is that of Israel in the wilderness who,
though they were all redeemed from Egypt, yet did not all enter the land of promise,
notable exceptions being Caleb and Joshua, types of the overcomer. The examples of
faith given in Heb. 11: are drawn from many parts of the O.T., beginning with Abel, but,
however varied the experience recorded, one thing is common to all, "These all died in
faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were
persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and
pilgrims on the earth" (Heb. 11: 13).
In this connection Abraham is cited as the great example. To him the land had been
given, yet "he looked for a city which hath foundations". He and those of like faith with
himself "declared plainly that they seek a country"; "they desire a better country, this is,
an heavenly; wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He hath prepared
for them a city" (Heb. 11: 14-16).
Here therefore is a calling that has the character of reward (Heb. 11: 26, 35): it is over
and above the calling that is unconditional and received as a gift.