‘Thoughts'

A Word Of Encouragement!

At the end of Hebrews the 5 th chapter, and at the beginning of the 6 th chapter, the writer wanted to discuss Christ's priesthood according to the order of Melchizedek. However, because of their spiritual immaturity, this subject was temporarily dismissed until the writer could strictly warn these brethren concerning the need to grow spiritually (from milk to solid food). Yet, as any good teacher does, the writer would not leave them with just this stern direction. Before he moves on, he would leave them with a ‘ word of encouragement '.

Note:

Hebrews 6:9-12 “But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner. 10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”

What they and consequently we can learn from this?

•  We are all capable of greater things in our service to God , rather than spiritual weakness ( Vs.9 ) .

•  Even though they are not where they should be, there were things they did well. True growth comes from adding to the graces you have come to master ( Vs.10; II Peter 1:5-9 ).

•  They should show the same diligence for growth as they had for ministering to the saints . This desire to love their brethren could also make them successful students of God's word if it were attacked with the same zeal. This formula is productive in every aspect of a Christian's life ( Vs.11 ) .

•  We should all imitate those who are strong in faith and have acquired the patience to overcome ( Vs.12 ) .

No one enjoys being told they are weak and need to improve. However, every honest person has to admit their need to improve in various aspects of their service to God.

Let's all be proactive and use this formula for growth!