Four times the Greek word adunatos appears in the book of Hebrews. Each time it is translated “It is impossible”. Each usage declares a significant and sobering truth.
It is impossible to renew apostate Christians to repentance when they desire to live in open rebellion to the Son of God (Hebrews 6:4-6).
It is impossible for God to lie (Hebrews 6:18). This statement can be made categorically because God’s holiness is so pristine and invincible, He cannot even be tempted to lie (James 1:13).
It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away human sin (Hebrew 10:4). Unlike humans, sacrificial animals are not made in God’s image. They are inferior. Their inferiority is a perpetual, “ungetoverable” deficiency to their atoning capabilities. Only an innocent sacrifice of One who is human would be sufficient.
It is impossible to please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6). From Adam and Eve onward, “the just shall live by his faith” is the enduring principle by which God has determined the reward He gives every human being.
There are many things which are impossible for humans but not for God (Luke 18:27); but, as the penman of Hebrews points out, there are things which are impossible for God—lying and being pleased by unbelief.
