3:14 {8} For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the {k} beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;
(8) Now he considers these words, If you hear his voice showing that they are spoken and meant of the hearing of faith, opposite which he places hardening through unbelief.
(k) That beginning of trust and confidence: in the speech of the Hebrews, he calls beginning that which is chiefest.
3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ. In fellowship with Christ, partakers of his benefits and glory.
If we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end. If we persevere to the end. The Israelites started well, but did not persevere. The only final perseverance of the saints is to persevere until the work of life is over.
3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ - And we shall still partake of him and all his benefits, if we hold fast our faith unto the end. If - But not else; and a supposition made by the Holy Ghost is equal to the, strongest assertion. Both the sentiment and the manner of expression are the same as Heb 3:6.
3:14-19 The saints' privilege is, they are made partakers of Christ, that is, of the Spirit, the nature, graces, righteousness, and life of Christ; they are interested in all Christ is, in all he has done, or will do. The same spirit with which Christians set out in the ways of God, they should maintain unto the end. Perseverance in faith is the best evidence of the sincerity of our faith. Hearing the word often is a means of salvation, yet, if not hearkened to, it will expose more to the Divine wrath. The happiness of being partakers of Christ and his complete salvation, and the fear of God's wrath and eternal misery, should stir us up to persevere in the life of obedient faith. Let us beware of trusting to outward privileges or professions, and pray to be numbered with the true believers who enter heaven, when all others fail because of unbelief. As our obedience follows according to the power of our faith, so our sins and want of care are according to the prevailing of unbelief in us.
