A commentary on the whole Epistle to the Hebrews. By M. John Calvin. Translated…A commentarie on the vvhole Epistle to the Hebrevves. By M. Iohn Caluin. Translated…

For he found no place to repentance, &c.] That is to say, his late repentance did profit him nothing; or, that he got nothing by it; although he sought that blessing with tears; ⟨p. 305⟩which through his own default he had lost. Now in as much as he doth here denounce such a danger to hang over the heads of all the contemners of Gods grace: Question. it may thereupon be demanded, a man having received the grace of God, and afterward contemn it, preferring the world before his kingdom; whether there be no more hope of pardon for such a one? I answer, Answer. pardon is not precisely denied to such, but they are to be admonished to take heed the like also befall not them. And in very trueth, we may see many examples every day of Gods severity in this behalf, whereby he takes vengeance upon the mockeries and scoffs of profane men. For howsoever they promise themselves the next day to amend in; oftentimes he prevents their hopes in taking them suddenly out of this world by new and unexpected kinds of death: and whilst they esteem all that which they hear of Gods judgements to be but as a fable; he pursues them so as they are constrained to feel him their judge: and whilst they would fain lull their consciences asleep; they are suddenly abashed by feeling horrible torments: and is it not a just punishment of their blockishness? Now howsoever this happens not to all, yet not withstanding because there is danger that it may befall some; therefore the Apostle for good cause admonisheth all in general to beware. Others ask another question here, to wit, Question. if any sinner that repents be profited nothing at all thereby. For it seems he meant to say so, when he teacheth that repentance did Esau no good. I answer, Answer. that repentance is not here taken for a true and sound conversion unto God, but only for that fear wherewith God wounds the wicked after they have along time sported themselves in their malice. Now we are not to marvel if it be said that this fear is unprofitable; because they come not to amendment of life by it, neither do they come to the hatred of their sins, but are only tormented with the punishments they endure. And as much may be said of his tears. As oft as the sinner groaneth, the Lord is ready to pardon; and a man shall never seek mercy at Gods hands in vain, because the […] ⟨p. 308⟩the burning fire;