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Book of Hebrews - Chapter 12 - Verse 8

12:8
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

Meaning

The verse "But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons." from the book of Hebrews in the Bible emphasizes the importance of discipline and correction from God to His children. Chastisement, in this context, refers to the loving and corrective actions that a father takes towards his children to guide them in the right path. The verse conveys that just as a father disciplines his children out of love, so does God discipline His children to help them grow spiritually and stay on the right path. It highlights the idea that if one does not experience the discipline and correction of God, then they are not truly His children but rather illegitimate and not part of His family. Therefore, this verse serves as a reminder to believers that chastisement is a sign of God's love and guidance, shaping them into the sons and daughters that He intends them to be.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Hebrews, the word "chastisement" holds significant theological weight. The Greek word used for "chastisement" is "paideia," which encompasses the idea of discipline, correction, and training. The author of Hebrews emphasizes the importance of God's discipline in the lives of believers, comparing it to a father's discipline of his children. The verse highlights the notion that all believers will face discipline from God, as it is a sign of His love and care for His children. The word "bastards" in this context refers to those who are not legitimate sons, implying that if one does not experience God's discipline, they are not truly His children. This verse serves as a reminder of the intimate relationship believers have with God and the loving discipline He provides to shape and mold them into His likeness.

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