Chapter 6: Enlightenment and God's Promises

Introduction

In Hebrews Chapter 6, we delve into the themes of spiritual enlightenment, the importance of perseverance, and the certainty of God's promises. The text provides a solemn warning against falling away and emphasizes the hope anchored in God's unchangeable nature.

Overview of Hebrews 6

Hebrews 6 can be divided into three main sections:

1. Warning Against Falling Away (verses 1-8)
2. You are Meant for Better Things (verses 9-12)
3. The Certainty of God's Promise (verses 13-20)

Warning Against Falling Away (Hebrews 6:1-8)

Verses 1-3: The chapter begins with a call to leave the elementary teachings about Christ and move towards maturity. The foundational principles such as:

• Repentance from evil deeds (1 John 1:9)
• Placing our faith in God
• Baptisms (washings - plural)
• Laying on of hands (Acts 6:6 and 1 Timothy 4:14 also Acts 8:17 and Acts 19:6)
• Resurrection of the dead and eternal judgement 

Verses 4-6: This section presents a stern warning about the dangers of apostasy. It describes the tragic consequences for those who have once been enlightened, tasted the heavenly gift, and shared in the Holy Spirit but then fall away. The impossibility of renewing them again to repentance is emphasized, as they crucify the Son of God afresh (cf. 1 Timothy 1:19). But, is this a reference to Israel (cf. Isaiah 5:1-7 - The Song of the Vineyard)?

Verses 7-8: An analogy is drawn using land that drinks in the rain and produces useful crops versus land that produces thorns and thistles (see the parable of the sower: Matthew 13:3-9, Mark 4:3-8, and Luke 8:5-8). The former is blessed, while the latter is in danger of being cursed and ultimately burned. This serves as a vivid illustration of the outcomes based on one's response to God's grace.

You are Meant for Better Things (Hebrews 6:9-12)

Verses 9-10: The author expresses confidence in the readers, referring to them as beloved and affirming their better prospects. Despite the stern warning, there is an encouragement to show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, avoiding sluggishness and imitating those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

Verses 11-12: The text encourages believers to maintain their zeal and diligence in their spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of faith and patience in inheriting God's promises. It seems like a corporate message, not an individual one, however.

The Certainty of God's Promise (Hebrews 6:13-20)

Verses 13-15: The text recounts the promise made to Abraham and God's oath by Himself, emphasizing His unchangeable purpose. Abraham's patient endurance and subsequent obtaining of the promise serve as a powerful example.

Verses 16-20: The certainty of God's promises is further underscored by the reliability of His oath. The unchangeable nature of His purpose and His promise offer believers a strong consolation and a hope that is an anchor for the soul, entering the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus, our forerunner, has entered on our behalf as a High Priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.

Discussion Questions

1. What are the elementary teachings mentioned in Hebrews 6:1-3, and why is it important to move beyond them?
2. How does the warning against falling away in verses 4-6 challenge your understanding of faith and perseverance? How could this be applied corporately?
3. What can we learn from Abraham's example of faith and patience in inheriting God's promises?
4. How does the metaphor of hope as an anchor for the soul in verses 19-20 provide comfort and assurance in your spiritual life?

OT Verses Quoted in Hebrews Chapter 6

• Hebrews 6:14 - "I will certainly bless you. I will multiply your descendants beyond number, like the stars of the sky and the sands on the seashore. Your descendants will conquer the cities of their enemies." - Genesis 22:17

Key Themes and Takeaways

1. Spiritual Maturity: The call to move beyond elementary teachings and strive for maturity in faith is paramount. This growth is necessary to avoid stagnation and potential apostasy.
2. Perseverance: Believers are encouraged to remain diligent and patient, following the example of those who have inherited God's promises through faith and perseverance.
3. The Certainty of God's Promises: God's unchangeable nature and His oath provide believers with a strong foundation for hope and assurance. This hope, anchored in God's faithfulness, sustains and encourages believers in their spiritual journey.

Conclusion

Hebrews 6 calls believers to pursue spiritual maturity, heed the warnings against falling away, and hold firmly to the hope anchored in God's unchangeable promises. By emulating the faith and perseverance of those who have gone before us, we can remain steadfast in our journey towards spiritual fulfillment.