King James Version
What Does Hebrews 12:11 Mean?
“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 .”
Context
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;
13
And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. straight: or, even
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **Now no chastening . . .**—Better (the reading being slightly changed), *All chastening seemeth for the present time to be not joyous, but grievous.* The language, so far, would seem to be perfectly general, relating to all chastening, whether human or divine. The following clause may seem to confine our thought to the latter; but, with a lower sense of “righteousness,” the maxim is true of the wise discipline of earthly parents.
**The peaceable fruit of righteousness.**—Better, *peaceful fruit, *(*fruit*)* of righteousness, to them that have been trained thereby.* The “peaceful” fruit stands in contrast with the unrest and trouble which have preceded during the time of “chastening.” But there is more than rest after conflict, for the object of the conflict is attained; the fruit consists in righteousness. (Comp. Isaiah 32:17; Proverbs 11:30; James 3:17; Philippians 1:11.) It has been sometimes supposed that in the word “trained” the writer returns to the figure of Hebrews 12:4; but this is not probable.
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 12:11 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 12:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge