New Testament
Hebrews 10:28
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse from Hebrews 10:28 highlights the seriousness of disregarding the law given by Moses.
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Anyone who despised the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.
He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Hebrews 10:28 highlights the seriousness of disregarding the law given by Moses. It states that those who rejected this law faced severe consequences, specifically death, based on the testimony of two or three witnesses. This reflects the strictness of the Old Testament law and serves as a warning about the gravity of sin and the importance of adhering to God's commandments. The author of Hebrews uses this example to emphasize that if such severe punishment was given for breaking the law, how much more serious will the consequences be for those who reject the new covenant established through Jesus Christ? The verse serves to remind believers of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God’s word, as well as the seriousness of turning away from the truth.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Hebrews 10:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to take our faith seriously and to understand the weight of our choices. Just as the law of Moses had consequences for disobedience, we should recognize the importance of living according to the teachings of Christ. It reminds us to remain faithful and not take our relationship with God lightly.
Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hebrews 10:28 mean?
Hebrews 10:28 explains that those who disregarded the law of Moses faced severe consequences, specifically death, based on the testimony of two or three witnesses. This verse serves as a warning about the seriousness of sin and the importance of following God's commandments.
What is the significance of witnesses in Hebrews 10:28?
The mention of two or three witnesses in Hebrews 10:28 emphasizes the legal requirement for establishing truth in accusations. It highlights the seriousness of the consequences for breaking the law, reinforcing the need for accountability in matters of faith.
How does Hebrews 10:28 relate to the new covenant?
Hebrews 10:28 contrasts the severe punishment for breaking the Old Testament law with the greater seriousness of rejecting the new covenant established through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's word in the new covenant.
What themes are present in Hebrews 10:28?
Key themes in Hebrews 10:28 include the consequences of sin, the strictness of the Old Testament law, the role of witnesses, obedience to God, and the seriousness of rejecting the new covenant through Christ.

The Book of Hebrews
Hebrews 1: The Son Above the Angels
God, who formerly spoke through the prophets in many ways, has now spoken through His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things and through whom He made the worlds. The Son is the brightness of God's glory and the express image of His person, upholding all things by His power, and after purging sins He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. The writer proves through Scripture that the Son is far greater than the angels: He is called the Son of God, receives worship from the angels, possesses an eternal throne, and laid the foundations of the earth, while angels are ministering spirits sent to serve the heirs of salvation.
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