Hebrews 10:13
From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstoole. Hebrews 10:13 (KJV)
Hebrews 9:26 states, ‘But now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.’ In the preceding verses (Hebrews 10:11-12), the author discusses how the Old Testament priests would offer sacrifices repeatedly, which could never take away sins permanently. However, Jesus, as the perfect High Priest, offered Himself once for all, accomplishing eternal redemption through His sacrifice.
This verse is found in the book of Hebrews, which is a letter written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and considering a return to Judaism. The author of Hebrews aims to exhort them to remain steadfast in their faith in Jesus Christ, highlighting the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant over the Old Covenant.
Hebrews 10:13 contains a reference to Psalm 110:1, which is a Messianic psalm that speaks of the exaltation and victory of the Messiah. Let’s explore the verse and its context to gain a better understanding:
The exaltation of Christ: Hebrews 10:13 quotes Psalm 110:1, which says, ‘The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool.’ The author of Hebrews applies this verse to Jesus, emphasizing His exalted position at the right hand of God the Father.
Expectation of victory: The phrase ‘From henceforth expecting’ indicates that believers are to await a future event—the subjugation of Christ’s enemies. This expectation is grounded in the confidence that Christ’s redemptive work is complete and that His enemies will ultimately be defeated.
Enemies made His footstool: The phrase ’till his enemies be made his footstool’ signifies the ultimate triumph of Jesus over all His adversaries. This imagery suggests complete dominion and victory, with His enemies being placed under His feet.
The New Testament frequently speaks of Jesus’ ultimate triumph and the subjugation of His enemies (e.g., 1 Corinthians 15:25-27). “He that offered once for all hath taken away sin” is not a verbatim verse; the idea is expressed in Hebrews 10:10‑12, which says that Christ “offered one sacrifice for sins… once for all.”
