King James Version

What Does Hebrews 3:12 Mean?

“Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.”

Context

Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.

So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) They: Gr. If they shall enter

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

But exhort one another daily , while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **Lest there be in any of you.**—Better, *lest haply there shall be in any one of you.* (See above, on Hebrews 3:7.) **In departing**.—Better, *in falling away from a Living God.* The heart of unbelief will manifest its evil in apostasy. The Greek word *apistia* stands in direct contrast to “faithful” (*pistos*)*, *Hebrews 3:2, and combines the ideas of “unbelief” and “faithlessness.” He whose words they have heard is a living God, ever watchful in warning and entreaty (Hebrews 3:8), but also in the sure punishment of the faithless (Hebrews 3:11; Hebrews 10:31).

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 3:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.