King James Version
What Does Hebrews 12:6 Mean?
“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.”
Context
4
Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.
5
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
6
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
7
If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
8
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(6) **And scourgeth.**—As the words stand in our Hebrew text, the meaning is “even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” A very slight change in one word, however, will yield the sense in which the clause was understood by the Greek translators, and which is here retained. For the purpose of this quotation the difference between the two renderings is not material.
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 12:6 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 12:6
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge