Hebrews 12:10-11 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless, afterwards it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
‘Few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit.’ Even earthly parents chasten for only a few days. Shall we believe that God is less loving (Matt. 7:7-11)? Shall we say that lifelong sicknesses are His doing and that He is the only parent who never finishes chastening His children? Is God one to continue chastening after obedience has been learned? Paul is here showing that God is a better parent than men, not a worse one.
Christ is better than parents and others: Christ suffered more than they (12:3). His chastening to a better end (12:10). Not a fornicator as Esau (12:16-17). Provided the better way to God (12:18-24). Provided the better covenant (12:24). Provided the better atonement (12:24). Speaks from heaven (12:25-29). Gives us a kingdom (12:28). The same always (13:8). Sanctified us (13:12-13). The way of goodness and praise (13:15-16). The Great Shepherd and source of perfection and works (13:20-21).
‘That we might be partakers.’ This is the object of all the chastening (child training) and correction of God.
‘His holiness’ – not the man-made kind that sets up human standards of dress and outward appearance which create pride, false humility, and strife among Christians. God’s emphasis is on inward holiness; man’s emphasis is on outward appearance (1Sam. 16:7).
‘No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous.’ Neither correction, restraint, rebuke, nor discipline is pleasant for the moment, but by these means obedient children and men are made.
Living the Word 