Hebrews 10:30 — “For we know him who said, ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ and again, ‘The Lord will judge his people.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse continues the warning found in the earlier verses of Hebrews 10, especially verses 26-29. After laying out how serious it is to reject Jesus, the writer reminds his audience that God is a just judge, and He has clearly said He will bring justice to those who sin against Him.
The two quotes come from the Old Testament. The first—“It is mine to avenge; I will repay”—means that God alone has the right to execute final judgment. The second—“The Lord will judge his people”—means that even those who claim to be part of His people are not off the hook if they turn away from Him.
This verse emphasizes that God sees all, and He will deal righteously with everyone, especially those who reject the grace He’s provided through Christ.
Historical Context
The original readers of Hebrews were Jewish believers under pressure to abandon their faith in Jesus. The temptation to go back to the old covenant system was strong, especially in the face of persecution.
In the Old Testament, God’s people were judged when they disobeyed Him. These quotes (from Deuteronomy 32:35-36) come from a section where God is warning Israel not to turn from Him, because judgment will follow if they do.
So here in Hebrews, the writer applies that same truth to New Testament believers. He reminds them that while God is merciful, He is also just—and He will judge not only the world but also those within His own house who reject His Son.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches a few key theological truths:
- God is the final judge. We don’t carry out ultimate justice—He does. His judgment is perfect and impartial.
- God’s justice includes His own people. Being part of God’s covenant people doesn’t shield anyone from judgment if they turn from Him.
- Justice and grace go hand in hand. God’s grace offers salvation, but His justice holds accountable those who reject it.
This verse warns us not to take grace lightly and reminds us that true faith leads to lasting obedience.
Literary Analysis
This verse is made up of two strong Old Testament quotes that reinforce one another. The first quote shows God’s authority over vengeance, meaning He doesn’t overlook sin—He handles it personally. The second highlights that God will judge His own people, showing that no one is exempt from accountability.
The repetition of “we know him who said…” makes it personal. The writer isn’t talking about a distant or unknown deity—he’s referring to the God they all knew from Scripture, the One who both saves and judges.
The phrasing is intended to be direct and sobering, pushing readers to consider the weight of their response to the gospel.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 32:35-36 – The source of both quotes in this verse, dealing with God’s judgment on Israel’s unfaithfulness.
- Romans 12:19 – “Do not take revenge… for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay.’”
- 1 Peter 4:17 – “It is time for judgment to begin with God’s household.”
- 2 Corinthians 5:10 – “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ…”
- Hebrews 12:6 – “The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
These verses show that God’s justice applies to all people and that even believers are subject to His correction and evaluation.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believer, this verse is both a sobering reminder and a comforting truth. It warns us not to treat God’s grace casually. Knowing Jesus means we’re forgiven, but it also means we walk in reverence and obedience. God will not overlook deliberate rebellion—even in those who once professed faith.
At the same time, it frees us from taking justice into our own hands. We don’t have to get revenge because God has promised to judge rightly. That brings peace in situations where we’ve been wronged.
This verse should stir both holy fear and holy trust.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Many people struggle with the idea of God’s judgment, but love and justice are not opposites—they belong together. A truly loving God cannot ignore evil, especially when it’s done in the face of His grace.
This verse is a warning born from love. God says, “Don’t reject the only way to be saved. If you do, I will deal with that sin.” His justice is not uncontrolled anger—it’s righteous, measured, and perfectly fair.
And because He is loving, He gives this warning so people will turn and be saved.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights why Jesus is so essential. He came to take the judgment we deserve. He stood in our place, bore God’s wrath, and shed His blood so we wouldn’t have to face the fire of judgment ourselves.
- John 3:36 – “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son… God’s wrath remains on them.”
- Romans 5:9 – “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!”
- Hebrews 9:28 – “Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many…”
If we reject Him, though, there is no other shelter from judgment. Jesus is our only hope—and the judge we will all stand before one day.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse shape your view of God’s justice?
- Do you sometimes forget that God will hold people accountable, including those who reject His Son?
- How does knowing that God will “repay” help you let go of bitterness or the desire for revenge?
- In what ways does this verse increase your gratitude for Jesus’ work on the cross?
- Who in your life needs to be lovingly warned not to treat the gospel casually?