HIS Promise + HIS Oath = Truth
Compiled By: Lisa K Gonzales
From: The Life Application Study Bible
16 “When people take an oath, they call on someone greater than themselves to hold them to it. And without any question that oath is binding. 17 GOD also bound HIMSELF with an oath, so that those who received the promise could be perfectly sure that HE would never change HIS mind. 18 So GOD has given us both HIS promise and HIS oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for GOD to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to HIM for refuge can take new courage, for we can hold on to HIS promise with confidence.” ~ Hebrews 6:16-18
GOD’s promises are unchanging and trustworthy because GOD is unchanging and trustworthy. When promising Abraham a son, GOD took an oath in HIS own name. The oath was as good as GOD’s name, and GOD’s name was, and still is, as good as HIS divine nature.
The two “unchangeable things” are GOD’s promise and HIS oath. GOD embodies all truth; therefore, HE cannot lie. Because GOD is truth, we can be secure in HIS promises; we do not need to wonder if HE will change HIS plans. Our hope is secure and immovable, anchored in GOD, just as a ship’s anchor holds firmly to the seabed. To the true seeker who comes to GOD in belief. GOD gives an unconditional promise of acceptance. When we ask GOD with openness, honesty, and sincerity to save us from our sins – HE will do it! This truth should give us encouragement, assurance and confidence.
19 “This confidence is like a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain of heaven into GOD’s inner sanctuary. 20 Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the line of Melchizedek.” 6:19-20 – A curtain hung across the entrance from the Holy Place to the Most Holy Place, the two innermost rooms of the Temple. This curtain prevented anyone from entering, gazing into, or even getting a fleeting glimpse of the interior of the Most Holy Place. The high priest could enter there only once a year to stand in GOD’s presence and atone for the sins of the entire nation. But Christ is in GOD’s presence at all times, not just once a year, as the High Priest who can continually intercede for us.
YOU are unchangeable Father GOD. YOUR oath and YOUR promises are truth. We are secure in this knowledge and we know YOU will not change YOUR plans. Our hope is secure. We are immovable. This confidence is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. Thank YOU, Father for YOUR Son Jesus. Thank You Jesus for interceding for us and for taking away the sins of the earth. We are truly grateful.
