The hope set before us" (Heb. 6:18) is the expectation of heavenly glory as secured and displayed in Christ exalted on high. Of course, the "hope" implies something yet to be done or manifested, though, being of God in Christ, it has not the smallest shade of uncertainty about it like what men call hope. This hope has present effects too, causing us to "draw nigh to God." If you compare Heb. 10:23, which ought to be "hope" rather than "faith" as in the Authorized Version, it should fill us with joy (Heb. 3:6). It is clearly in the future alone that all will be realized, and therefore it is justly called "hope." Still, the work being finished, and Christ having entered within the veil, our hope is said to penetrate there too. That is, besides being sure for us and steadfast in itself, it is heavenly as entering into the immediate presence of God on the basis of the precious blood of Christ. It counts upon God fulfilling all He has promised, according to the faithfulness which has raised up Christ from the dead (like Isaac in the type), and set Him in the atmosphere of unchangeable blessing inside the veil. As Abraham had his son given back and the promise confirmed by an oath, so we have our hopes confirmed in a yet more precious way in Christ glorified above, though still having need of patience.
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