READ: Heb. 6:4-12: For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God; but if it bears thorns and briers, it is rejected and near to being cursed …
In chapters 3 and 4, unbelief leading to apostasy has been discussed with Israel as a frightening example. This is now examined in greater depth. The author first speaks of those who have been baptized and raised in the church, have heard the gospel of reconciliation and eternal salvation through Christ, and have even confessed it, witnessed miracles of healing, and celebrated the Holy Communion. If those who have enjoyed these heavenly gifts of the Holy Spirit with the prospect of eternal salvation still fall away and leave the church, they cannot be brought to repentance.
It seems impossible for apostasy to occur after so many displays of grace and such rich promises from God’s side. Yet it can happen! This has already been demonstrated with the people of Israel. They had applied the blood of the lamb to their doorposts in Egypt, crossed the Red Sea, eaten manna and quail from heaven, met God at Horeb, and heard His voice there. They had declared that they would obey Him in everything (Ex. 19:8).
Nevertheless, they fell away. As an additional warning, it is now mentioned that there is no possibility of repentance after falling away despite the expression of faith. Then you have rejected your Savior, spurned His blood, as it were, crucified Him again, and mocked Him (v.6).
The readers are therefore encouraged to continue bearing good fruit of faith. God observes our response to His gifts of grace. He wants to see fruits that are pleasing to Him. Those are the better things on which His blessing rests (v.9). But if unfaithfulness follows God’s grace (thorns and thistles), then His curse and hellish punishment come upon it (v.8).
Therefore, let us not be sluggish but be diligent to the end! Let us follow those who inherit God’s promises through patience and faith. And let us encourage one another in doing so (“each one of you,” v.11).
What is the sin against the Holy Spirit?
Singing: Ps. 145:5