The most troublesome passages in the Bible are found in the book of Hebrews. Troublesome because they have been read to say that if Christians aren't careful, they will lose their salvation. The first is found in chapter 6.
For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame. (Hebrews 6:4-6)
For ground that drinks the rain which often falls on it and brings forth vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is also tilled, receives a blessing from God; but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned. (Hebrews 6:7-8)
The other is found in Hebrews chapter 10.
For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a terrifying expectation of judgment and THE FURY OF A FIRE WHICH WILL CONSUME THE ADVERSARIES. (Hebrews 10:26-27)
Both of these have been used to frighten and manipulate Christians into changing their behavior. This study is intended to put the these passages into the context of the Hebrews' story and consequently free wounded Christians from that legalistic teaching.
The saying that "context is everything" is so very applicable here so let's not neglect the title of the book: "A Letter to the Hebrews". It is filled with references to their historical people and events.
- Abraham (Abram) is considered the great father of the Hebrews and the one given the Promise.
- Melchizedek is an unknown, yet most significant high priest of God; Abraham gave tribute to him.
- Moses led the people and gave them the Law.
- The priests of the Levitical Priesthood were the mediators between God and the people
- Joshua experienced the Exodus and was the first to enter and later lead the people into the Promised Land.
- The nation which was led out of Egypt, across the desert to the Promised Land, where many refused to enter.
- There were notable Hebrews who lived their lives by faith and serve as examples to the rest.
This amazing book communicates a single message: Jesus is the only way to eternal life with God. Yet, Christian teaching treats the Hebrew background much too lightly when applying passages to New Testament believers. Every passage needs to be understood how it first relates to Hebrews before it is applied to non-Hebrews. Their story is the lens through which the entire book must be viewed to be understood.
