My Reasons for Hope

Hebrews Six

The challenge in chapter six is for believers to press on with spiritual growth until they fully mature—“perfection” (Heb. 6:1-12). They are to leave the elementary teachings of God’s word, the “doctrine of Christ” (5:12).  While it is vital to have this spiritual foundation, the Christian must go on to full maturity (6:1-3). “Perfection” refers to maturity—spiritual adulthood—as the goal of the Christian. Sometimes this is referred to a Christlikeness or sanctification. William Newel felt that pressing on to full growth would make a great title for the book of Hebrews.

Without a solid commitment to continue to grow up in the Lord, the believer will run head on into the difficulty of spiritual stagnation (Heb. 6:4-6). The question of who is being addressed in this section must be answered. The recipients are described in some detail and this description seems to point more to believer than merely professors. For example they had been “enlightened” by the Spirit as they were instructed in the gospel. They have tasted “the heavenly gift” which means they have experienced the gift of God which is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Christ is the gift that God gave because he so loved the world (Jn. 3:16). They also share in the Holy Spirit’s ministry in their lives—“were made partakers of the Holy Ghost” (6:4). Admittedly, these descriptions could also be true of a person attending Christian meetings and only professing faith without ever having been born again.

The most difficult part of this interpretation is the clause “for it is impossible for those… to renew them again unto repentance” (Heb. 5:4, 6). However, it helps to understand that the impossibility exists as long as they are still crucifying the Son of God afresh and actively putting Him to an open shame. No one can be renewed to a fresh dedication and commitment to Christ while they are still behaving in a manner that is offensive to Christ. The impossibility evaporates if these believers humble themselves, repent of their shameful behavior and commit themselves to continue and grow in Christ.

Clearly the spiritual production of a person claiming to be Christ is what distinguishes the authentic believer from those merely claiming to be (Heb. 6:7-10). In a church’s life both groups will receive privilege and blessing from God, but the impact will be vastly different.

To avoid stagnation and apostasy the believer must chart a course of progress (Heb. 6:11-12). They should be consumed with matters of love, service, and ministry. These are the kind of things that accompany salvation and God will reward such faithful service for Christ’s sake. Their diligence does promote a full assurance of hope.

Continuation in the Christian faith is inspired by the promises of God and the eternal priesthood of Christ (6:12-20). The Christian’s assurance is based on God’s promise (6:12-15). Therefore, each believer must refuse to be spiritually lazy (Heb. 6:12), follow good models of faith and patience (6:12), and give careful consideration to Abraham’s example of trusting God’s promises (Heb. 6:13-15). Because he was assured by God’s promises to him (13-14), he endured until he received it (15). The hope of realizing the promise inheritance of God should inspire continuation and diligence in the heart of Christians.

Believers’ assurance is also based on God’s confirmation (Heb. 6:16-18).  This was much like an oath of confirmation in a court of law. Men take such ratifications readily and seriously (6:16). How much more should Christians take God’s oath of confirmation seriously (Heb. 6:17-18). God not only gave His word, but He also made use of an oath, that by both these the believer may have a double assurance. When a faithful believer trusts God, they enjoy the strong consolation that can come only by having confidence in God (6:18).

Then finally, believers’ assurance is based on God’s Son, Jesus Christ (Heb. 6:19-20). For the believer in personal jeopardy they may flee to Christ, their City of Refuge for safety and protection (6:18). For those inclined to drift away from secure moorings Christ is their Anchor of Hope in Heaven (6:19). The hope of the believer—heaven itself, their inheritance, and privileges as sons of God—is secured by Christ. With regard to access to God, the Father, Christ is their Forerunner in the presence of God for them always (Heb. 6:20). Yes, Christians’ Forerunner has entered “within the veil.” Surely every believer is to follow Him there most confidently. And Christ is their everlasting High Priest with God who in the power of a never ending life makes continual intercession for His people (6:20). It is not us who must hold on to God for security, but Him who will not let us go!