Matthew Henry Commentary Hebrews 10:19-25

"Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by the way which he dedicated for us, a new and living way, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; and [having] a great priest over the house of God; let us draw near with a true heart in fulness of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience: and having our body washed with pure water, let us hold fast the confession of our hope that it waver not; for he is faithful that promised: and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works; not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting [one another]; and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh." — Hebrews 10:19-25 (ASV)

The apostle having closed the first part of the epistle, the doctrine is applied to practical purposes. Since believers had an open way to the presence of God, it was fitting for them to use this privilege. The way and means by which Christians enjoy such privileges is by the blood of Jesus—by the merit of that blood which He offered up as an atoning sacrifice. The agreement of infinite holiness with pardoning mercy was not clearly understood until the human nature of Christ, the Son of God, was wounded and bruised for our sins.

Our way to heaven is by a crucified Saviour; His death is to us the way of life, and to those who believe this, He will be precious. They must draw near to God; it would be contempt of Christ to still keep at a distance. Their bodies were to be washed with pure water, alluding to the cleansings directed under the law; thus, the use of water in baptism was to remind Christians that their conduct should be pure and holy.

While they derived comfort and grace from their reconciled Father for their own souls, they would adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour in all things. Believers are to consider how they can be of service to each other, especially by stirring up each other to the more vigorous and abundant exercise of love, and the practice of good works. The communion of saints is a great help and privilege, and a means of steadfastness and perseverance.

We should observe the coming of times of trial and be thereby spurred to greater diligence. A trying day is coming for all men: the day of our death.