King James Version
What Does Hebrews 12:10 Mean?
“For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. after: or, as seemed good, or, meet to them”
Context
8
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
9
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?
10
For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. after: or, as seemed good, or, meet to them
11
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby .
12
Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **After their own pleasure.**—Rather, *as seemed good unto them.* The contrast is continued here between human liability to mistake and the perfect knowledge of our heavenly Father, who seeks our profit, and cannot err in the means which He employs. There is a general resemblance between this verse and the last, the “few days” corresponding to the “fathers of our flesh;” and the last clause here, “that we may be partakers of His holiness,” to the words which close Hebrews 12:9, “and live.” To the “few days” no contrast is directly expressed in the second member of the verse; none was needed, because the last words so clearly imply the *permanence* of the result.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Hebrews 12:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Hebrews 12:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge