Hebrews 6:3

The Peril of Not Progressing

1 Therefore, ^aleaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to¹ perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from ^bdead works and of faith toward God,

2 ^aof the doctrine of baptisms, ^bof laying on of hands, ^cof resurrection of the dead, ^dand of eternal judgment.

3 And this¹ we will do if God permits.

4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted ^athe heavenly gift, and ^bhave become partakers of the Holy Spirit,

5 and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come,

6 ¹if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, ^asince they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.

7 For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, ^areceives blessing from God;

8 ^abut if it bears thorns and briers, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned.

Commentaries:

Barnes' Notes

<< Hebrews 6:2

Hebrews 6:4 >>

Hebrews 6:3

And this will we do - We will make these advances toward a higher state of knowledge and piety. Paul had confidence that they would do it (see Hebrews 6:9-10), and though they had lingered long around the elements of Christian knowledge, he believed that they would yet go on to make higher attainments.

If God permit - This is not to be interpreted as if God was "unwilling" that they should make such advances, or as if it were "doubtful" whether he would allow it if they made an honest effort, and their lives were spared; but it is a phrase used to denote their "dependence" on him. It is equivalent to saying, "if he would spare their lives, their health, and their reason; if he would continue the means of grace, and would impart his Holy Spirit; if he would favor their efforts and crown them with success, they would make these advances." In reference to anything that we undertake, however pleasing to God in itself, it is proper to recognize our entire dependence on God; see James 4:13-15; compare the notes on John 15:5.

Other Barnes' Notes entries containing Hebrews 6:3:

Hebrews 12:17

<< Hebrews 6:2

Hebrews 6:4 >>

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The Peril of Not Progressing

A Verse and a Thought,Every Morning

A Verse and a Thought,
Every Morning