Hebrews 9:28 – So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse wraps up the argument of the entire chapter. It says that just like every person dies once and then faces judgment—see –Hebrews 9:27—Jesus also died once. But His death wasn’t for His own sin. It was to take away the sins of others.

Jesus came the first time to be the sacrifice. He came to deal with sin—to take the penalty for it and make forgiveness possible. But that mission is complete. Now we’re told that Jesus will come again, but not to deal with sin a second time. He already did that. When He comes again, it will be to bring salvation in its fullness to those who are waiting for Him.

This means full deliverance—not just from sin’s guilt, but from sin’s presence, and from a broken world.

Historical Context

In the old covenant, priests offered sacrifices again and again. But –Hebrews 9 has shown us that Jesus’ sacrifice is different. It was one time, for all time. This verse is the conclusion: He was sacrificed once to take away sin.

In Jewish history, there was also a longing for the Messiah—not just to deal with sin, but to bring a kingdom, to rescue and restore. This verse tells us that Jesus will come again, and when He does, it will be to complete the work of redemption.

The first coming was to save us from sin’s penalty. The second coming will save us from sin’s presence.

Theological Implications

This verse contains deep truths about salvation, time, and eternity:

• Jesus’ sacrifice was sufficient. It doesn’t need to be repeated.

• Salvation is both already and not yet. Jesus has taken away our sin, but we still await the full realization of His work when He returns.

• Judgment and reward are coming. He will return not to judge His people, but to bring final rescue to those who are trusting in Him.

It also teaches that true faith involves waiting—eagerly expecting Christ’s return.

Literary Analysis

The structure of this verse reflects both a past event and a future hope. The first part looks back: “Christ was sacrificed once.” The second part looks forward: “He will appear a second time.”

There’s a strong contrast built in: first He came to bear sin, then He will come to bring salvation. The phrase “to those who are waiting for him” adds a personal, relational element. This is not about rituals or religion—it’s about eagerly trusting in a person: Jesus.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• –Isaiah 53:12 – He bore the sin of many

• –John 1:29 – The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world

• –Romans 6:10 – The death He died, He died to sin once for all

• –Titus 2:13 – We wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our Savior

• –1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 – The Lord will return and gather His people

• –Revelation 22:12 – “Behold, I am coming soon. My reward is with me.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a great encouragement. If you’ve trusted in Jesus, your sins are taken away. You don’t need to fear judgment—He already bore that for you. And now, you can live with hope, knowing He is coming again.

It also challenges you to live with expectation. Are you waiting for Jesus? Are you longing for Him to return? This verse reminds us not to settle into this world. We’re waiting for something greater—eternal salvation in the presence of our Savior.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God didn’t leave us in our sin. He sent Jesus once to deal with it completely. And now, He’s not finished—He promises to send Jesus again, not with wrath for His people, but with rescue.

This is a loving God who acts—He saves, He secures, and He finishes what He starts—see –Philippians 1:6.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is at the center of this verse. His past work: sacrificed once to take away sin. His future promise: returning again to bring final salvation. He is not a distant figure from history—He is alive, and He is coming back.

His sacrifice is complete. His return is certain. And His people are called to wait with faith, love, and readiness.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• What does it mean to you that Jesus was sacrificed once to take away your sin?

• Are you living as someone who is truly “waiting for Him”?

• How can this verse encourage you when you feel weighed down by the brokenness of the world?

• How can the certainty of Jesus’ return shape your priorities and choices today?

• What can you do to encourage others to look forward to Christ’s second coming?