Hebrews 6:9 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things — things that belong to salvation.

NIV: Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation.

NASB: But, beloved, we are convinced of better things regarding you, and things that accompany salvation, even though we are speaking in this way.

CSB: Even though we are speaking this way, dearly loved friends, in your case we are confident of things that are better and that pertain to salvation.

NLT: Dear friends, even though we are talking this way, we really don’t believe it applies to you. We are confident that you are meant for better things, things that come with salvation.

KJV: But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.

NKJV: But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner.

Prior verses included a severe warning. After criticizing those who are lazy in their approach to Christian truth (Hebrews 5:11–14), the author resolves to move on to deeper ideas, even if some are not ready (Hebrews 6:1–3). Before this, he discusses the dire consequences of falling into doubt and disobedience (Hebrews 6:4–8). Instead of pressing forward with such an ominous tone, the writer switches to reassurance before resuming his teaching.

Although the consequences of "falling away" are extreme, the writer of Hebrews does not necessarily expect that everyone reading these words is in immediate danger of that fate. The point of giving his alert was just that: a loving, pre-emptive warning. Based on the evidence of their lives, there was good reason to think that they could move past their immaturity while continuing to serve God in faith.

Just as in Hebrews 5:9, immediate context determines which aspect of "salvation" is in mind here. The prior context is anchored in the example of Israel in the wilderness: disobedience leading to a loss of inheritance, and to judgment (Numbers 13—14). Chapter 5 reminded us of Christ's example, in order to obtain this same type of "salvation" by obedience. Specifically, this is the idea of sanctification, or a gradual growth in Christ-like behavior. In this verse, just as in Hebrews 5:9, the term does not refer to heaven or hell, but to our conduct and character.

Another useful observation from this passage is that spiritual immaturity is not incompatible with good works. It is possible for a Christian to serve God well, and with sincerity, and yet still be stuck in spiritual immaturity. The danger presented by that condition exists even if the Christian's lifestyle is godly.

Hebrews 6:9–12 provides a softer tone than the prior passage. The writer has criticized the Hebrew Christians for their lack of spiritual maturity, and warned them of the serious danger presented by such a shallow faith. At the same time, these verses indicate that they were doing well in their service to God and their love for others. This section of Scripture reassures the reader that the intent here is to encourage them to continued growth—not to frighten or intimidate them. The next verses will highlight the reasons all Christians can approach their faith with confidence.

Chapter 6 expands on the dangers of a shallow, immature faith. Rather than attempting to re-explain the basics, the author intends to press on. According to this passage, shallow faith opens up the risks of doubt, discouragement, and disobedience. These lead to a situation where one's only hope for restoration is through judgment, much as Israel experienced for forty years in the wilderness. Since our hope is anchored in the proven, unchanging, perfect, absolute nature of God, we should be confident and patient, rather than fearful.

Chapter 6 completes a warning begun in the last verses of chapter 5. The author has deep points to make, but doubts that the readers are ready for them. Yet the only course of action is to press on: there is no time to re-establish the ABCs of the faith. Spiritual immaturity prevents growth, leading to doubt, discouragement, and eventually to judgment. Those who only scratch the surface of Christianity, then fall into disobedience, can't be restored to good standing until they've experienced some level of judgment. Rather than make that mistake, we should trust in the absolute promises of God, and the work of Christ, as we patiently pursue godly wisdom. Chapter 7 will resume the extensive discussion of Melchizedek's priesthood.

The book of Hebrews is meant to challenge, encourage, and empower Christian believers. According to this letter, Jesus Christ is superior to all other prophets and all other claims to truth. Since God has given us Christ, we ought to listen to what He says and not move backwards. The consequences of ignoring God are dire. Hebrews is important for drawing on many portions of the Old Testament in making a case that Christ is the ultimate and perfect expression of God's plan for mankind. This book presents some tough ideas about the Christian faith, a fact the author makes specific note of.