19 Therefore brothers and sisters, we have confidence to enter the holy place by Yeshua’s blood—20 a new and life-giving path that he initiated for us to go through the curtain, which is his flesh. 21 Since we have an incredible priest presiding over God’s house, 22 we can approach God with sincere hearts in full assurance due to our faith, having our hearts sprinkled to clean us from our guilty consciences and with our bodies having been washed in clean water.[ref] 23 We can hold onto the confession of our unwavering hope because the one who made the promise is faithful, 24 and we can be considering how to provoke each other to show love and to do good things—25 not giving up meeting together as some have, but rather encouraging each other even more as you all see the day of judgement coming closer.

26 If we keep on sinning after learning about the truth, then there’s no sacrifice left for our sins, 27 but the certain expectation of fearful judgement and of a fiery anger that will consume the god-haters.[ref] 28 Anyone who rejected Moses’ law would receive the death sentence without mercy by the strength of two or three witnesses,[ref] 29 so how much more severe punishment do you all expect might be considered appropriate for someone who trampled God’s son underfoot and who has considered the blood of the agreement as cheap[ref] and who has insulted the spirit of grace? 30 Yes, we know who said,[ref] ‘Vengeance is mine—I’m the one who’ll repay them,’ and again, ‘The master will be judging his people.’ 31 It’s a scary thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

32 Remember those earlier days when you first learnt about Messiah and how you endured a lot of suffering—33 sometimes being publicly displayed with derision and persecution, and at other times helping others who were being treated like that. 34 You all sympathised with those who were imprisoned and cheerfully accepted the confiscation of your possessions because you knew that you have a better possession that will endure on. 35 So then, don’t toss away your boldness, because it’ll lead to a sizeable reward. 36 Rather you need to endure so that when you’ve done what God wants, you’ll all receive back what was promised 37 because:[ref]

‘In still a little while the one coming will come,

and won’t be delaying.’

38 And:

‘My righteous one will be living by faith.

If he retreats, my soul won’t be pleased with him.’

39 But we aren’t from those retreating back to destruction, but from those with faith that preserves the soul.