Πεπείσμεθα. Lit., “We have been (and are) convinced of.” Comp. Romans 15:14.

ἀγαπητοί. The warm expression is introduced to shew that his stern teaching is only inspired by love. This word and ἀδελφοί are often introduced to temper the severity of the sterner passages in the Epistles.

τὰ κρείσσονα. Lit., “the better things.” I am convinced that the better alternative holds true of you; that your condition is, and your fate will be, better than what I have described.

ἐχόμενα σωτηρίας. “Akin to salvation,” the antithesis to “near a curse.” What leads to salvation is obedience (Hebrews 5:9).

εἰ καὶ οὕτως λαλοῦμεν. In spite of the severe words of warning which I have just used. Comp. Hebrews 10:39.

οὕτως. As in Hebrews 6:4-8.

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Old Testament