Hebrews 6:2 - Printer Friendly

ESV: and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

NIV: instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

NASB: of instruction about washings and laying on of hands, and about the resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment.

CSB: teaching about ritual washings, laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

NLT: You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

KJV: Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

NKJV: of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

The early verses of chapter 6 explain how the author intends to handle the readers' spiritual immaturity. Rather than moving on to mature faith, these early Jewish Christians were stuck in a rut. The dangers of this will be explained in the next few verses. For now, however, the author makes it clear that there is no value in re-teaching the basics. Moving forward is the only reasonable option, so that is exactly what the book of Hebrews will do.

The need to press on is key for interpreting verses 4 through 8. The danger presented in those words is tied to the problem explained in chapter 5, and addressed here. Spiritual immaturity leads to consequences which we do well to avoid.

Verses 1 and 2 contain references to several doctrines. These would have been considered basic, in the time Hebrews was written. They were also concepts which Judaism and Christianity interpreted differently. More than likely, these were areas where persecuted Jewish Christians were being pressured to return to Judaism. The purpose of spelling these out seems to have two purposes. First, to emphasize that these are only the beginning of one's understanding of the faith. Second, that pressure from the outside world should not undermine our commitment to the truth.

A major theme of the conflict between early Christianity and Judaism was the purpose of ritual works. As men like Paul often stated, these were only meant to point the way to Christ (Galatians 3:24). They were never intended to be the final word on our relationship to God. For the Christian, this concept needs to be well-understood, and not subject to doubt. To take a step backwards, once again placing faith in these sacraments, would make it that much harder for a Christian to fully comprehend their own salvation.

Hebrews 6:1–3 is the author's answer to the problem posed at the end of chapter 5. The readers are spiritually immature, and so there is a good chance they will miss the deeper meanings which the book of Hebrews means to explore. Here, however, the author resolves not to waste time on elementary teachings. Instead, he will press on and allow the audience to ''catch up'' as they are able.

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.