The author of Hebrews draws a parallel between the once-for-all nature of human death and the once-for-all nature of Christ's sacrifice. Both are singular events with permanent consequences. The first appearance dealt with sin; the second will bring salvation to those waiting.

From the writers we read together

E. Stanley Jones

Missionary Statesman and Evangelist, India

Jones spent his ministry presenting Christ to Hindus and Muslims who had deeply sophisticated accounts of death and afterlife. He found that Hebrews 9:27–28 was uniquely powerful: it does not deny death's reality or appointment but reframes what lies after it. Judgment, yes — but for those who belong to Christ, His second appearance is for salvation, not condemnation. The one who bore sin once will appear again for those eagerly waiting.

The word 'eagerly waiting' (apekdechomenois) describes not passive resignation but active, expectant longing — the posture of someone whose eyes are on the horizon. Death is the one appointment every human being keeps; judgment follows. But Christ has gone before, dealt with sin, and will appear again for the sake of those who wait for Him. How does living with that appointment on the calendar — death, then judgment, then Christ — change the way you spend your days now?