◄ Hebrews 6 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
A Call to Maturity 1Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works,a and of faith in God, 2instruction about baptisms,b the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And this we will do, if God permits. 4It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, 5who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age— 6and then have fallen away—to be restored to repentance, because they themselves are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting Him to open shame. 7For land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is tended receives the blessing of God. 8But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless, and its curse is imminent. In the end it will be burned. 9Even though we speak like this, beloved, we are convinced of better things in your case—things that accompany salvation. 10For God is not unjust. He will not forget your work and the love you have shown for His name as you have ministered to the saints and continue to do so. 11We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. 12Then you will not be sluggish, but will imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. God’s Unchangeable Promise 13When God made His promise to Abraham, since He had no one greater to swear by, He swore by Himself, 14saying, “I will surely bless you and multiply your descendants.”c 15And so Abraham, after waiting patiently, obtained the promise. 16Men swear by someone greater than themselves, and their oath serves as a confirmation to end all argument. 17So when God wanted to make the unchanging nature of His purpose very clear to the heirs of the promise, He guaranteed it with an oath. 18Thus by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged. 19We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, 20where Jesus our forerunner has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. Footnotes: 1 a Or from acts that lead to death 2 b Or cleansing rites 14 c Genesis 22:17 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Hebrews 6 Summary God's Unchangeable Promise Verses 1–3 – Pressing On to Maturity The writer urges believers to leave the “elementary principles of Christ” and advance to full-grown faith. Instead of continually re-laying foundations—repentance, faith, washings, laying on of hands, resurrection, and eternal judgment—he calls them to progress, “and this we will do if God permits” (v. 3). Verses 4–8 – The Danger of Falling Away Those who have been enlightened, shared in the Holy Spirit, and tasted God’s word yet deliberately turn away cannot be “renewed to repentance” (v. 6). Their rejection re-crucifies Christ in open shame. Land that drinks in rain and bears good crops is blessed; ground that yields thorns is near to being cursed and ends in burning. Verses 9–12 – Encouragement for the Faithful The readers have shown love by serving saints, and God will remember. The writer longs for them to imitate those “who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (v. 12). Verses 13–20 – The Certainty of God’s Promise God swore by Himself to Abraham, making the promise unchangeable. Two unbreakable things—God’s promise and His oath—give strong encouragement. Hope is “an anchor for the soul, firm and secure,” reaching into the inner sanctuary where Jesus, the forerunner, has entered as High Priest forever. Hebrews 6, a chapter full of rich symbolism and deep spiritual insights, provides a stark warning against apostasy while simultaneously extending an encouraging invitation towards spiritual growth and maturity. The chapter underscores the absolute certainty of God's promise, using the example of Abraham, and presents hope as a steadfast anchor for the soul. Historical Setting and Audience Hebrews was sent to Jewish believers facing pressure to drift back to synagogue life. The date is likely before A.D. 70, since temple sacrifices appear still active (Hebrews 10:1–2). Chapter 6 presses them to keep moving forward with Christ despite hardship. Purpose of Chapter 6 in the Letter’s Flow Chapters 5–7 contrast Christ’s priesthood with the Levitical system. After pausing to warn sluggish listeners (5:11–14), chapter 6 gives a sober caution (vv. 4–8) and a bright promise (vv. 9–20), then re-enters the theme of Melchizedek (7:1). Pressing On to Maturity (vv. 1–3) Foundational teachings: • Repentance from dead works (Acts 20:21) • Faith in God (John 6:29) • Washings/baptisms—ritual cleansings familiar to Jews (Mark 7:4) now fulfilled in Christian baptism (Romans 6:3-4) • Laying on of hands—commissioning and impartation (Acts 13:3; 1 Timothy 4:14) • Resurrection of the dead (1 Corinthians 15:12-26) • Eternal judgment (Revelation 20:11-15) These truths are vital yet introductory; believers are to build on them, not recycle them endlessly. The Warning about Falling Away (vv. 4–8) Five privileges listed: 1. Enlightened (John 1:9) 2. Tasted the heavenly gift (John 6:51) 3. Shared in the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38) 4. Tasted the good word of God (Jeremiah 15:16) 5. Tasted powers of the coming age (miracles, Hebrews 2:4) Deliberate desertion after such grace is more than weakness; it is willful rebellion (cf. Hebrews 10:26–29; 2 Peter 2:20–22). The agricultural picture echoes Jesus’ parable of soils (Matthew 13:3-9). Thorns choke fruitfulness; productive land reflects genuine faith (John 15:8). Agricultural Illustration and Archaeology First-century Judean farmers relied on autumn and spring rains (Deuteronomy 11:14). Archaeological digs at Nazareth Village show terrace walls and cisterns that captured precious water. Burned thorn fields visible in excavation layers illustrate the fate of unproductive land. Encouragement and Assurance (vv. 9–12) Despite the stern warning, the writer is “convinced of better things” for his readers—works that accompany salvation. Their past service mirrors the Macedonians’ generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). God’s justice means He never forgets deeds done in love (Proverbs 19:17). Diligence, not sluggishness, keeps hope vibrant (Romans 12:11). God’s Oath to Abraham (vv. 13–18) Genesis 22:16–17 records God swearing by Himself: “I will surely bless you.” By custom, an oath invokes someone greater; God, having none greater, swears by His own name (Isaiah 45:23). Paul draws the same point in Galatians 3:15-18. The “two immutable things” are: 1. His promise (Genesis 12:2-3) 2. His oath (Genesis 22:16) These anchor believers, giving “strong encouragement” to keep running the race (Hebrews 12:1-2). The Anchor of the Soul (vv. 19-20) Early Christian art in the Roman catacombs often shows an anchor, signifying steadfast hope. Mariners trusted anchors to hold fast against storms; believers trust Christ, whose finished work reaches “behind the veil.” As “forerunner,” Jesus secures our entrance, echoing His words: “I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). Jesus the High Priest “forever according to the order of Melchizedek” (v. 20) Melchizedek appears briefly in Genesis 14:18-20 and Psalm 110:4. Unlike Aaron’s priests, he has no recorded genealogy or end, picturing an eternal priesthood. Jesus fulfills this, interceding perpetually (Hebrews 7:25). Key Words and Phrases • Elementary principles (v. 1) – foundational teachings • Impossible (v. 4) – no human means can renew rebels; only God could, yet the text says such renewal will not occur • Crucifying again (v. 6) – public rejection of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice • Thorns and briars (v. 8) – symbols of the curse (Genesis 3:18) • Diligence (v. 11) – eager persistence • Anchor (v. 19) – steadying hope amid trials • Forerunner (v. 20) – one who enters first so others may follow Connections to Other Scriptures • Warning parallels: Numbers 14:22-23; 1 Samuel 15:22-23 • Assurance parallels: Psalm 103:17; Isaiah 46:4 • Hope imagery: Romans 5:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:8 • Priesthood fulfilled: Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 4:14-16; 7:23-28 Practical Application 1. Keep growing. Spiritual infancy is natural at first but dangerous if prolonged. 2. Take warnings seriously. God uses them to stir sincere hearts, not to crush true believers (Philippians 1:6). 3. Serve faithfully. Love expressed in practical deeds counts eternally (Matthew 25:40). 4. Hold fast to the anchor. Storms will come, but hope rooted in God’s oath will not fail. 5. Follow the Forerunner. Jesus opened the way; draw near with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). Outline for Teaching or Preaching I. Forward, Not Backward (vv. 1–3) II. Five Privileges, One Peril (vv. 4–8) III. Better Things and a Just God (vv. 9–12) IV. A Promise Sealed with an Oath (vv. 13–18) V. An Anchor Inside the Veil (vv. 19–20) Summary Thought Hebrews 6 blends sober warning with sturdy hope, urging believers to mature, heed God’s voice, and cling to the unbreakable promise anchored in Jesus Christ. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 3:12-14 Paul speaks about pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly calling. 2 Peter 1:5-8 Peter encourages believers to add to their faith virtues that lead to spiritual maturity. James 1:2-4 James discusses the testing of faith and its role in producing perseverance and maturity. Romans 4:18-21 The faith of Abraham is highlighted as an example of unwavering trust in God's promises. Teaching Points The Call to Maturity Hebrews 6:1-3 urges believers to leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity. This passage emphasizes the importance of growing in our understanding and application of the faith. The Danger of Falling Away Verses 4-6 present a stern warning about the impossibility of renewing to repentance those who have once been enlightened and then fall away. This serves as a caution against complacency and apostasy. The Assurance of Hope In verses 9-12, the author expresses confidence in the readers' salvation, encouraging them to show diligence and imitate those who inherit the promises through faith and patience. God's Unchanging Promise Verses 13-20 highlight God's faithfulness, using the example of His promise to Abraham. The passage reassures believers of the certainty of God's promises, anchored by the hope set before us. Practical Applications Pursue Spiritual Growth Actively seek to deepen your understanding of Scripture and apply it to your life, moving beyond basic teachings to a mature faith. Guard Against Complacency Regularly examine your spiritual life to ensure you are not drifting away from your commitment to Christ. Hold Fast to Hope In times of doubt or difficulty, remember the certainty of God's promises and let them anchor your soul. Imitate Faithful Examples Look to the lives of mature believers and biblical figures as models of faith and perseverance. People 1. Believers (Hebrews 6:1-3) These are the individuals who are encouraged to move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and to mature in their faith. The passage urges them to leave behind the basic principles and press on to maturity, which includes understanding repentance, faith, baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 2. Those Who Have Fallen Away (Hebrews 6:4-6) This group refers to people who have once been enlightened, tasted the heavenly gift, shared in the Holy Spirit, and tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, but have fallen away. The text warns about the impossibility of renewing them again to repentance, as they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting Him to public disgrace. 3. Faithful Believers (Hebrews 6:9-12) These are the believers whom the author of Hebrews is confident will experience better things—things that accompany salvation. They are commended for their work and love shown in serving the saints and are encouraged to show diligence to the very end, imitating those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 4. Abraham (Hebrews 6:13-15) Abraham is mentioned as an example of someone who patiently waited and obtained the promise. The passage refers to God's promise to Abraham and His oath, emphasizing the certainty and unchangeable nature of God's promise. 5. God (Hebrews 6:13-18) God is described as the one who made a promise to Abraham and confirmed it with an oath. The text highlights God's unchangeable purpose and His inability to lie, providing strong encouragement to those who have fled to take hold of the hope set before them. 6. Jesus (Hebrews 6:19-20) Jesus is referred to as the forerunner who has entered the inner sanctuary behind the curtain on our behalf. He is described as a high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek, emphasizing His eternal priesthood and role as an anchor for the soul. Places Hebrews 6 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. Instead, it focuses on theological concepts and exhortations. However, I can provide a brief overview of the chapter's themes and concepts from a conservative Christian perspective, if that would be helpful. Let me know how you would like to proceed! Events 1. Call to Maturity (Hebrews 6:1-2) The author urges believers to move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and progress toward maturity. This includes foundational doctrines such as "repentance from dead works and faith in God," "instruction about baptisms," "the laying on of hands," "the resurrection of the dead," and "eternal judgment." The Greek term for "maturity" (τελειότητα, teleiotēta) suggests completeness or perfection. 2. God's Permission for Progress (Hebrews 6:3) The author acknowledges that spiritual growth and moving toward maturity is contingent upon God's will, stating, "And this we will do, if God permits." 3. Warning Against Apostasy (Hebrews 6:4-6) A stern warning is given about the impossibility of renewing to repentance those who have once been enlightened, tasted the heavenly gift, shared in the Holy Spirit, and then fallen away. The Greek word for "fallen away" (παραπεσόντας, parapiptontas) indicates a serious deviation or apostasy. 4. Illustration of Fruitfulness and Judgment (Hebrews 6:7-8) The author uses an agricultural metaphor to illustrate the outcomes of faithfulness versus unfaithfulness. Land that produces useful crops receives blessings, while land that yields thorns and thistles is in danger of being cursed and ultimately burned. 5. Encouragement and Assurance (Hebrews 6:9-10) Despite the warnings, the author expresses confidence in the recipients' salvation, acknowledging their love and service to God. The Greek term for "better things" (κρείσσονα, kreissona) implies things that accompany salvation. 6. Exhortation to Diligence and Imitation (Hebrews 6:11-12) The author encourages believers to show the same diligence to the very end, so that their hope may be fully realized. They are urged to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. 7. God's Promise and Oath (Hebrews 6:13-18) The certainty of God's promise is emphasized through His oath to Abraham. The Greek word for "oath" (ὅρκος, horkos) underscores the unchangeable nature of God's promise, providing strong encouragement to hold fast to hope. 8. Hope as an Anchor (Hebrews 6:19-20) The chapter concludes with the metaphor of hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure, entering the inner sanctuary behind the curtain. Jesus is described as the forerunner who has entered on our behalf, becoming a high priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. Lessons from Hebrews 6 1. Press On to Maturity In Hebrews 6:1, we are encouraged to "leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity." This is a call to deepen our understanding and relationship with God. Just as a plant needs to grow beyond its seedling stage to bear fruit, our faith must mature to produce the fruits of the Spirit. Embrace opportunities for spiritual growth, whether through Bible study, prayer, or fellowship, and watch your faith flourish. 2. Build a Strong Foundation The passage reminds us of the importance of a solid foundation in our faith. Hebrews 6:1-2 lists foundational teachings such as repentance, faith, and resurrection. These are the bedrock of our beliefs, much like a house built on rock. Ensure your spiritual foundation is strong, so when life's storms come, you remain steadfast and unshaken. 3. Beware of Falling Away Hebrews 6:4-6 warns of the dangers of falling away after having received the knowledge of the truth. This serves as a sobering reminder to guard our hearts and remain vigilant in our walk with Christ. Stay connected to the community of believers and immerse yourself in Scripture to keep your faith anchored. 4. The Power of Repentance Repentance is a recurring theme in Hebrews 6, emphasizing its significance in our spiritual journey. True repentance involves a heartfelt turning away from sin and a commitment to follow Christ. It's a powerful act that renews our relationship with God and aligns us with His will. 5. The Assurance of Hope In Hebrews 6:11, we are encouraged to "show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end." Hope is not just wishful thinking; it's a confident expectation based on God's promises. Let this hope be your anchor, keeping you steady and secure in the face of life's uncertainties. 6. Imitate the Faithful Verse 12 urges us to "imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." Look to the examples of faithful believers, both in Scripture and in your life, who have demonstrated unwavering trust in God. Their stories can inspire and guide you on your own faith journey. 7. God's Unchanging Promise Hebrews 6:17-18 highlights the unchanging nature of God's promise. Just as God swore by Himself to Abraham, His promises to us are steadfast and reliable. Trust in His Word, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill what He has promised. 8. The Anchor for the Soul Verse 19 beautifully describes hope as "an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." In a world full of shifting sands, let your hope in Christ be the anchor that holds you steady. This hope is rooted in the resurrection of Jesus, the ultimate assurance of our salvation. 9. Enter the Inner Sanctuary Hebrews 6:19-20 speaks of Jesus as our forerunner, who has entered the inner sanctuary on our behalf. Through Him, we have direct access to God. Embrace this privilege by drawing near to God in prayer and worship, knowing that Jesus has paved the way for us. 10. Jesus, Our High Priest Finally, Hebrews 6:20 reminds us that Jesus is our eternal High Priest. He intercedes for us, offering a perfect sacrifice for our sins. Rest in the assurance that through Jesus, we have a mediator who understands our weaknesses and advocates for us before the Father. Let this truth fill you with peace and confidence in your walk with God. Topics 1. Pressing on to Maturity (Hebrews 6:1-3) The author encourages believers to move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and advance toward spiritual maturity. This involves leaving behind the "foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith in God" (Hebrews 6:1). The Greek word for "maturity" (τελειότητα, teleiotēta) suggests completeness or perfection, indicating a call to grow in understanding and practice of the faith. 2. Warning Against Apostasy (Hebrews 6:4-6) A stern warning is given about the dangers of falling away after having once been enlightened and tasted the heavenly gift. The passage describes the impossibility of renewing to repentance those who have fallen away, as they are "crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting Him to open shame" (Hebrews 6:6). The Greek term for "fall away" (παραπεσόντας, parapiptontas) implies a serious and deliberate departure from the faith. 3. The Illustration of Land (Hebrews 6:7-8) The author uses an agricultural metaphor to illustrate the outcomes of faithfulness versus unfaithfulness. Land that produces a useful crop receives blessing, while land that yields thorns and thistles is in danger of being cursed and burned. This serves as a vivid reminder of the consequences of spiritual fruitfulness or barrenness. 4. Encouragement and Assurance (Hebrews 6:9-12) Despite the warnings, the author expresses confidence in the readers' salvation, noting their love and service to the saints. The passage encourages diligence and faith to inherit the promises, urging believers to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. The Greek word for "diligence" (σπουδή, spoudē) conveys earnestness and zeal. 5. The Certainty of God's Promise (Hebrews 6:13-20) The chapter concludes with a focus on the reliability of God's promises, using Abraham as an example. God’s promise is confirmed with an oath, providing strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. This hope is described as "an anchor for the soul, firm and secure" (Hebrews 6:19). The Greek term for "anchor" (ἄγκυρα, ankura) symbolizes stability and steadfastness, emphasizing the security found in God's unchanging nature. Themes 1. Spiritual Maturity The chapter begins with an exhortation to move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and advance toward maturity. Hebrews 6:1 states, "Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith in God." The Greek word for "maturity" (τελειότητα, teleiotēta) implies completeness or perfection, suggesting a call to grow in spiritual understanding and practice. 2. Warning Against Apostasy A significant theme is the warning against falling away after having received the knowledge of the truth. Hebrews 6:4-6 warns, "It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit... if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance." The Greek term for "fall away" (παραπεσόντας, parapiptontas) indicates a serious deviation from faith, emphasizing the gravity of apostasy. 3. God’s Justice and Faithfulness The author reassures the readers of God's justice and faithfulness in remembering their work and love. Hebrews 6:10 states, "For God is not unjust. He will not forget your work and the love you have shown for His name as you have ministered to the saints and continue to do so." This theme underscores the reliability of God in rewarding faithfulness. 4. Encouragement to Persevere The chapter encourages believers to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Hebrews 6:12 advises, "Then you will not be sluggish, but will imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." The Greek word for "sluggish" (νωθροί, nōthroi) suggests laziness or dullness, urging believers to remain diligent and steadfast. 5. The Certainty of God’s Promise The assurance of God's promise is highlighted through the example of Abraham. Hebrews 6:13-15 recounts, "When God made His promise to Abraham, since He had no one greater to swear by, He swore by Himself... And so Abraham, after waiting patiently, obtained the promise." This theme emphasizes the unchangeable nature of God's promises, reinforced by His oath. 6. Hope as an Anchor The chapter concludes with the metaphor of hope as an anchor for the soul. Hebrews 6:19 declares, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain." The imagery of an anchor (ἄγκυρα, ankura) conveys stability and security, reflecting the steadfastness of hope grounded in God's promises. Prayer Points Pray for Spiritual Growth Ask God to help you grow in knowledge and understanding of His Word, leading to a mature faith. Pray for Perseverance Seek God's strength to remain steadfast in your faith, especially during trials and temptations. Pray for Assurance Thank God for His unchanging promises and ask for a deeper assurance of hope in your life. Pray for Guidance Request wisdom to discern and follow the examples of faithful believers who have gone before you. As we reflect on Hebrews 6, may we be inspired to pursue spiritual maturity, hold fast to the hope set before us, and remain faithful to the end. Answering Tough Questions 1. Hebrews 6:4–6: If repentance becomes “impossible” for those who fall away, how does that align with the Bible’s broader message of limitless grace and forgiveness? 2. Hebrews 6:2: Do historical or archaeological records confirm the practices of multiple baptisms and the laying on of hands among early believers? 3. Hebrews 6:1: Does the call to move beyond “elementary doctrines” contradict Jesus’s repeated focus on foundational teachings like repentance and faith? 4. Hebrews 6:2: How can modern science reconcile the supernatural aspects of “resurrection of the dead” and “eternal judgment”? 5. Hebrews 6:19–20: If Jesus entered “behind the curtain,” is this temple-based imagery in tension with the historical destruction of the Temple in AD 70? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Hebrews 6 suggest about spiritual growth and maturity? 2. How can we apply the concept of moving beyond elementary teachings in our spiritual journey? 3. What does the warning against apostasy in Hebrews 6 tell us about the importance of steadfastness in our faith? 4. How might you react if someone you know fell away from the faith, and how does this chapter guide your response? 5. What are the implications for today’s believers from the metaphor of land that produces thorns and thistles? 6. In the light of this chapter, how can we encourage fellow believers who are struggling with their faith? 7. How does the example of Abraham's faith inspire your personal faith journey? 8. In what ways can you see God’s unchangeable purpose in your own life? 9. What does the metaphor of "hope as an anchor for the soul" mean to you? 10. How can the assurance of God's promise help you in times of doubt or hardship? 11. Why is it important for us to "imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised"? 12. How does the certainty of God's promise influence your daily living and decision-making? 13. How can you use the message of Hebrews 6 to witness to non-believers? 14. What actions can you take in your life to move towards spiritual maturity, as called for in Hebrews 6? 15. How does the concept of hope as an anchor help you navigate challenging situations in life? 16. How can the promise made to Abraham encourage us in our walk of faith today? 17. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate the patience that was exemplified by Abraham? 18. How do you perceive the role of hope in your spiritual journey, as described in this chapter? 19. How can the teachings in Hebrews 6 influence the way we deal with failures or backsliding in our spiritual journey? 20. How can you foster a sense of hope and certainty in God's promises within your community or church, based on the teachings in this chapter? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions