Hebrews 10:26

For it. In vs. 26-31 the writer explains more fully the nature of the wavering referred to in v. 23 and the state of mind of those mentioned in v. 25, who were neglecting to attend the appointed gatherings of believers.

Sin willfully. That is, continue to sin willfully, as the form of the Greek verb indicates. As the context makes evident (see v. 29), reference here is not to single acts of sin committed in the full knowledge of their heinous character, but to the attitude of mind that prevails when a person deliberately renounces Christ, refuses salvation, and rejects the Holy Spirit. This is deliberate, persistent, defiant sin. It is a considered reversal of the former decision to accept salvation in Christ and to yield one’s heart and life to Him. It is premeditated apostasy, and leads to the unpardonable sin (see on Matt. 12:31, 32). It is a continuing state of revolt against God.

After that. To be sure, all sinners are in a state of revolt against God (see on Rom. 8:7). But, as Paul explained to the Athenians, before sinners have received the knowledge of the truth God winks at their ignorance (Acts 17:30). Before the light of truth shines into men’s hearts God does not hold them accountable for the darkness that prevails there (see John 15:22; cf. Eze. 3:18-21; 18:2-32; 33:12-20; Luke 23:34; 1 Tim. 1:13). God loves sinners, and, indeed, sent His Son to save them (see on John 1:4, 5, 9-12; 3:16; cf. Matt. 9:13). But when light comes and men choose darkness instead, they stand self-condemned before God (John 3:19), and “there remaineth no more sacrifice for [their] sins” (Heb. 10:26; cf. James 4:17).

Knowledge. Gr. epignosis, “full knowledge.” The persons referred to are fully aware of the results of the course of action they have chosen.

Truth. That is, the “truth” about the love of God the Father for sinners as revealed in the plan of salvation and the gift of His Son (see ch. 2:1-3).

No more sacrifice. The Mosaic law prescribed death — not sacrifice — for confirmed and obdurate apostates (see on v. 28). Such were Nadab and Abihu (see Lev. 10:1-5), and Korah, Dathan, and Abiram and the 250 men associated with them (see Num. 16:1—35). For such persons sacrifices would have been unacceptable to the Lord, for sacrifices were of value only to the extent that they represented repentant hearts.