33 partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated;
Verses 33 and 34 portray difficulties the readers of Hebrews endured as new believers, such as public shame, imprisonment, and loss of property.
33 partly while you were made a spectacle
The word “spectacle” carries the idea of theater. These Christians were put on a stage of intimidation and ridicule. Persecution of believers was a theatrical event for non-believers. They became a public spectacle. This is persecution by shame.
both by reproaches
“Reproaches” means that these believers suffered verbal abuse by public jeering and scoffing.
and tribulations,
“Tribulations” may refer to persecution. The word “tribulations” means pressure. These Christians were weighed down with troubles. They were triumphant by overcoming these troubles. Tribulation works patience (Ro 5:3).
and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated;
Other believers as well endured affliction from those without Christ. The readers of Hebrews were in solidarity with them.
PRINCIPLE:
We meet reversals in life by faith.
APPLICATION:
Many Christians meet reversals in life with dynamic faith. This was a faith of confidence in God and what He would provide in eternity.
Hebrew Christians of this book of the Bible refused to compromise their faith in the early part of their Christian life. Now they were tempted to compromise their testimony because of persecution.
