Hebrews 10:35 — “So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse is a strong encouragement to believers who were struggling. After reminding them of their past faithfulness through suffering and loss (verses 32–34), the writer now tells them plainly: don’t give up. Don’t let go of your confidence—the bold, steady trust you’ve had in God and in His promises.
The kind of “confidence” being talked about here isn’t arrogance or self-assurance. It’s the assurance of faith—the kind of courage that comes from trusting in what God has said, even when life is hard. The writer tells them to hold on, because this confidence “will be richly rewarded.” God sees every act of faith, and He is faithful to reward those who endure.
This verse isn’t just about holding onto faith emotionally. It’s about refusing to quit spiritually, even when the pressure is heavy. It’s a call to stay rooted in Christ, knowing that God will honor it in the end.
Historical Context
The readers of this letter had experienced persecution, loss, public shame, and suffering for their faith in Jesus. Some were now tempted to shrink back, to abandon the gospel and return to Judaism or avoid standing out in a hostile world. They might’ve been tired, discouraged, or afraid.
The writer of Hebrews urges them: Remember your early courage—don’t throw it away now. What you believed in then is still true. The reward hasn’t changed. God hasn’t forgotten you.
This wasn’t just a general motivational speech—it was real encouragement for real people tempted to give up under pressure.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals a few core truths:
- Perseverance matters. Faith isn’t just about starting strong—it’s about finishing strong.
- Confidence in Christ brings reward. God will honor those who remain faithful to Him.
- Believers have a part to play. We’re called to hold on, stand firm, and not abandon our trust in God.
It’s also a reminder that God rewards faithfulness, not comfort, popularity, or outward success.
Literary Analysis
The verse begins with the word “so,” linking it directly to the previous thoughts. It builds on the memory of past endurance and the joy that came from knowing they had something better. Now it says: based on all that, don’t throw away your confidence.
The phrase “throw away” suggests a careless or intentional act—something that could be avoided. The readers were in danger of discarding what had once mattered most. The encouragement is firm: don’t do it.
“Richly rewarded” looks forward to the eternal promises of God—salvation, joy, glory, and closeness with Him forever. The wording points to something far greater than anything this world can give.
Biblical Cross-References
- Hebrews 3:6 – “We are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence.”
- Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence…”
- 2 Timothy 4:7-8 – “I have fought the good fight… there is in store for me the crown of righteousness…”
- Matthew 10:22 – “The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”
- Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest…”
Each of these verses shows that holding on to faith in the face of trials is not just possible—it’s worth it.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Today, many believers face different kinds of pressure. It might not always be persecution—but discouragement, doubt, temptation, or spiritual weariness can weigh heavily. This verse speaks directly to us: Don’t give up. Don’t walk away. Your faith will be rewarded.
It also reminds us to guard against spiritual laziness or distraction. When we stop pursuing God with purpose, we’re in danger of letting go of the very thing that matters most.
The reward might not come immediately, but it will come. God never forgets His people.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t just save us—He encourages us all along the way. This verse shows that He knows our hearts, our battles, and our weariness. And He lovingly calls us to keep going, not because we’re strong, but because He is faithful.
His love promises not only strength for today, but a rich reward for tomorrow. He wants His people to stand firm—not to prove themselves, but because He has promised that what’s coming is better than what we’ve lost.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the reason we can have confidence in the first place. He is the source, the object, and the reward of our faith. He endured suffering, rejection, and even death—and now He reigns in glory.
- Hebrews 12:2 – “For the joy set before him, he endured the cross…”
- Revelation 22:12 – “My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”
- Colossians 3:24 – “It is the Lord Christ you are serving… you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”
Our confidence rests on what He has done—and our reward is found in being with Him forever.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever felt tempted to give up or “throw away your confidence”? What helped you hold on?
- What does “confidence” in Christ look like in your daily life?
- How does the promise of a “rich reward” encourage you to keep going in hard times?
- Are there areas where you need to renew your trust in God today?
- How can you encourage someone else who might be struggling to stay faithful?