Hebrews 10:7 - Meaning, Interpretation, and Commentary

Verse: "Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God." (Hebrews 10:7)

This verse highlights a profound moment in Scripture, where the speaker, often interpreted as Jesus, expresses his commitment to fulfill God's will as outlined in the Scriptures. The implications of this statement are deep, rooted in both the Old and New Testaments.

Contextual Background

The book of Hebrews is a profound epistle that addresses Jewish Christians who are grappling with the transition from Old Covenant practices to the New Covenant established by Christ. This particular verse quotes Psalm 40:7-8, underlining the unity of Scripture and the prophetic nature of Christ's mission.

Key Themes and Insights

• Fulfillment of Prophecy: The phrase "in the volume of the book" refers to the entirety of the Old Testament writings that prophesied the coming and work of the Messiah.
• The Will of God: The verse emphasizes the importance of doing God's will, showcasing Jesus' submission and obedience, which is central to Christian faith.
• Christ’s Mission: This verse serves as a declaration of Christ's purpose, aiming to establish and fulfill His role as Savior through His sacrificial death and resurrection.

Biblical Exegesis

The interpretation of Hebrews 10:7 can be understood through various biblical commentaries:

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes the significance of Christ's coming as a fulfillment of God's longstanding plan, noting that Jesus acted in accordance with the Scriptures.
• Albert Barnes: He elaborates that the phrase underscores the idea that the entire Old Testament bears witness to the work and eventual sacrifice of Christ, emphasizing divine foreknowledge and intention.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke discusses the implications of Jesus stating He comes to do God's will, reinforcing that the essence of true worship is found in obedience to God, which Jesus exemplified perfectly.

Theological Implications

This verse reaffirms key aspects of Christian theology:

• Inspiration of Scripture: It supports the belief that the Bible is divinely inspired and coherent, pointing towards Christ's redemptive work.
• Christology: It highlights the dual nature of Christ—as both divine Son of God and obedient servant—signifying His authority and humility.
• Salvation: It illustrates the foundation of salvation through the willingness of Christ to fulfill God's redemptive plan.

Application in Daily Life

Understanding Hebrews 10:7 encourages believers to contemplate their own commitment to God's will. Here are some ways to apply this message:

• Engage in Bible study groups focusing on God’s will.
• Utilize Bible study tools to delve deeper into Scripture, seeking God’s guidance.
• Reflect on Bible study lessons related to obedience and service in the light of Christ’s example.

Related Scripture Cross References

• Psalm 40:7-8: The direct Old Testament source for this quotation.
• Matthew 26:39: Jesus’ prayer for God's will to be done in the Garden of Gethsemane.
• John 4:34: Jesus speaks about doing the will of Him who sent Him.
• Romans 12:2: Encouragement to discern and do the will of God.
• Philippians 2:5-8: A passage that mirrors Christ's humility and obedience.

Conclusion

Hebrews 10:7 serves as a critical verse to understand Jesus’ dedication to God’s will, as well as its broader theological implications regarding the nature of Scripture and salvation. For those involved in online Bible study, this verse exemplifies the depth of Christ’s mission and highlights the importance of aligning personal lives with God's purposes.