Spiritual Warfare Part 5: Fallen Not Finished

 https://pathwaytopurityandpower.podbean.com/e/fallen-but-not-forsaken-why-christians-fail-and-how-to-rise/

Bible Study Hebrews 6: 1-20

 

A Commentary of the Book of Hebrews

By Dr. Barry L. Jenkins

Text Used: King James Version

Bible Study Hebrews 6: 1-20

Text:

6 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 2 of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3 And this will we do, if God permit. 4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, 5 and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, 6 if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. 7 For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: 8 but that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.

9 But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. 10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. 11 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: 12 that ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

13 For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, 14 saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. 15 And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. 16 For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. 17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: 18 that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: 19 which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; 20 whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

Verse by verse commentary:

Verse 1: “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,”

This verse is not a call to abandon the basic truths of Christianity but to build upon them and mature in the faith. From a Puritan perspective, the Christian life is one of continual growth in grace, holiness, and conformity to Christ.

The word “Therefore” connects this verse to Hebrews 5, where the writer rebukes believers for remaining spiritual infants when they should have become teachers. The Puritans often warned against perpetual spiritual immaturity. Genuine faith produces growth, and a believer who never progresses in holiness should carefully examine the reality of his profession.

The phrase “leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ” means moving beyond the elementary teachings to a deeper understanding and practice of Christian truth. Just as a child learns the alphabet and then advances to reading and understanding, believers are to move beyond the mere basics and pursue spiritual maturity.

The exhortation to “go on unto perfection” refers not to attaining sinless perfection in this life but to reaching spiritual maturity and completeness. The Puritans rejected the idea of perfectionism, teaching instead that sanctification is progressive. Christians are to grow in knowledge, holiness, discernment, and usefulness in God's kingdom.

The verse also mentions foundational doctrines: “repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.” Dead works include both sinful deeds and self-righteous attempts to earn salvation through religious performance. True repentance involves turning from sin and self-reliance and turning to God. Faith toward God is a wholehearted trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation.

Verse 2: “ of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.”

In Hebrews 6:2, the writer continues listing the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith that believers are to build upon as they mature spiritually. The phrase “the doctrine of baptisms” likely refers to the various ceremonial washings familiar to Jewish believers and their fulfillment in Christian baptism. The “laying on of hands” refers to the biblical practice of setting apart individuals for service, blessing, or identifying with them in ministry. The doctrine of the “resurrection of the dead” was the belief that all people, both righteous and wicked, will be bodily raised by the power of Christ. For believers, the resurrection is a source of hope and comfort, reminding them that death is not the end but the doorway into eternal glory. Finally, the doctrine of “eternal judgment” serves as a solemn reminder that every person will stand before God. Faithful ministers will preach much on the coming judgment, not merely to produce fear, but to awaken sinners to repentance and encourage believers to live holy and godly lives.

Verse 3: “And this will we do, if God permit.”

This standard expression recognizes our reliance on divine assistance when engaging in the study or instruction of Christian doctrines. By employing this phrase, the author implies that the upcoming subject matter is quite challenging, which is certainly the case.

Verse 4: “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,”

These individuals had been instructed in biblical truths and possessed an intellectual grasp of them, yet understanding the gospel does not equate to regeneration. As indicated in John 1:9, spiritual enlightenment is distinct from salvation. In the New Testament, having "tasted of the heavenly gift" figuratively describes a conscious experience that may be either fleeting or ongoing. For instance, Christ's "tasting" of death was a momentary event rather than a permanent state. While all people experience God's goodness, such experiences do not inherently signify salvation. Many Jews witnessed heavenly blessings through Christ's earthly ministry—such as miraculous healings, deliverance, and provided food—yet experiencing these gifts, whether they refer to Christ or the Holy Spirit, was not the same as being saved. Similarly, being "partakers of the Holy Ghost" describes those influenced by the Spirit's external operations without necessarily being indwelt by Him in a saving capacity. Ultimately, this passage serves as a serious warning against apostasy, urging individuals to ensure their profession of faith is both sincere and redemptive. Remember, the audience would have included Jews that had professed faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. If they left Christ, it would be impossible for them to be saved without His shed blood. It would be “impossible” to repent (verse 6).

Verse 5: “and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,”

Much like the account of Simon Magus in Acts 8:9–24, these Hebrews remained unsaved despite their extensive exposure to divine truth and miracles. Their actions mirrored the rebellion of the generation that perished in the desert, who, despite witnessing God's wonders through Moses and Aaron and hearing His direct voice at Mount Sinai, failed to truly believe.

Verse 6: “if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.”

The Greek verb for "fall away" is unique to this passage in the New Testament, though the Septuagint employs it to describe profound apostasy and unfaithfulness. This level of betrayal is underscored by the graphic imagery used here: those who turn away are effectively crucifying Christ all over again and treating Him with open contempt. Consequently, the "impossible" mentioned in verse 4 directly qualifies the ability "to renew them again unto repentance."

The lack of hope for restoration for such individuals stems from the fact that they rejected Christ despite having full knowledge and a conscious experience of the truth. Having turned their backs on the highest revelation possible, they have arrived at a conclusion diametrically opposed to the truth, essentially siding with those who demanded Jesus' crucifixion. Since they cannot gain greater knowledge than that which they have already discarded, no further basis for salvation remains.

Critically, these verses do not suggest that a true believer can lose their salvation, as numerous other Scriptures affirm that salvation is eternal. Furthermore, if one were to interpret this passage as meaning salvation could be lost, they must also accept its literal conclusion: that such a loss would be permanent and restoration would be impossible.

Verse 7: “For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:”

These analogies demonstrate that individuals who receive the gospel message and react with faith are recipients of divine blessings, whereas those who listen but choose rejection face condemnation.

Verse 8: “but that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.”

Old Testament prophetic symbols often represent God's people as the ground, with the rain signifying His Word or Spirit. Destruction awaits the field that remains unproductive.

Verse 9: “But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.”

The use of the term "Beloved" signals a transition in the author's focus, moving from a tone of stern warning to one of heartfelt encouragement. This address specifically targets believers, a fact reinforced by the author's expressed conviction that "better things" are true of them than of those previously warned. These "better things" are defined as the "things that accompany salvation," referring to the visible works that serve as evidence of their genuine faith. By contrast, this assertion suggests that the behaviors detailed in 5:11–6:5 are not hallmarks of salvation but are instead symptoms of apostasy and unbelief. Despite the necessary focus on judgment in the earlier passage, the writer now reassures the "beloved"—the true believers—of his absolute confidence in their spiritual standing.

Verse 10: “ For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”

Good works do not merit salvation; however, for those who are already saved, they serve as the basis for divine blessings. While your "work and labour of love" is independent of the gift of eternal life, it remains a vital and significant aspect of the life of every believer.

Verse 11: “And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:”

It is essential for believers to maintain a comprehensive and unwavering confidence in their spiritual hope until the conclusion of their earthly journey.

Verse 12: “that ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”

God has established numerous promises for those who remain steadfast in their faithfulness to Him. “Slothful” could be translated as dull. We are to actively with intention be faithful to God’s Word. Then, we "inherit the promises.”

Verse 13: “For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself,”

Customarily, an oath is sworn upon an authority superior to the individual taking it. However, as there is no entity greater than the Almighty, God established His promise by swearing by His own name.

Verse 14: “saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.”

The Almighty conveyed this divine assurance to the patriarch Abraham. May we remember that we hold a book of promises that will sustain us in times of need.

Verse 15: “And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.”

This passage presents a profound spiritual truth. Abraham demonstrated perseverance, and through his unwavering trust in God, he received a renewed sense of divine assurance. Such trust facilitates a closer walk with the Almighty. By engaging in the diligent study of His Word, a believer matures in grace and increases in the knowledge of Him. This process leads to a state of spiritual certainty that is beyond question.

Verse 16: “For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife.”

The act of confirming a declaration through an oath serves as a definitive resolution to any point of contention.

Verse 17: “Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:”

Although the Almighty is not required to provide an oath when acting in this manner, He chooses to do so to emphasize the profound significance of the matter.

Verse 18: “that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:”

What defines the "two immutable things"? Initially, the Lord gave Abram a promise that his offspring would be as numerous as the celestial stars. Subsequently, He solidified this assurance through a divine oath. By backing His unvarying Word of promise with a second unchangeable element—His oath—God provided Abraham with profound assurance and encouragement. Today, we have the immutable Word of God that provides us with profound assurance and encouragement.

Verse 19: “ which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;”

The phrase "entereth into that within the veil" refers to Christ, our High Priest, entering the heavenly temple. This celestial sanctuary served as the original model for the earthly tabernacle. By passing through the veil and into the Holy of Holies, Jesus entered God's direct presence to present His blood. Following this, He took His seat "at the right hand of the Majesty on high".

Verse 20: “whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

Verse 19: “ which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;”

The reference to entering "within the veil" signifies the entry of Jesus, our High Priest, into the celestial temple—the true archetype for the earthly tabernacle. By advancing through the veil into the Holy of Holies, Christ entered the immediate presence of God to present His own blood, subsequently taking His place "at the right hand of the Majesty on high."

Verse 20: “whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

Forerunner (derived from the Greek prodromos, meaning “scout” or “spy”) brings to mind the two faithful spies at Kadesh Barnea who provided a positive report, in contrast to those who brought back discouraging news that resulted in divine judgment and the period of wilderness wandering. However, the author's intent was of even greater importance: “A high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. Much like Melchizedek, Christ occupies a unique position as High Priest,” serving as a permanent contrast to the temporary Aaronic order. His priesthood is established for ever, a major theme that is expanded upon in the seventh chapter.

 

Rediscovering the Holy Spirit

Scripture: Hebrews 9:14 (KJV)

“How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God...”

Personal Reflection

The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force, a religious feeling, or an emotional experience. He is the eternal Spirit of God—the third Person of the Trinity, equal in divine essence, majesty, and power with the Father and the Son.We are called to rediscover this biblical truth because confusion concerning the Holy Spirit inevitably produces confusion concerning salvation and the Christian life.

We must therefore guard against reducing the Holy Spirit to something we merely “feel.” He is Almighty God. He was present at creation. He executes divine judgment. He regenerates sinners, indwells believers, produces holiness, and glorifies Jesus Christ.

This truth should radically affect our worship. We should reverence the Holy Spirit, obey the Word He inspired, and never casually attribute foolishness or fleshly emotionalism to His work.

The Puritans understood that genuine Christianity requires the inward work of the Spirit. Doctrine without the Spirit becomes mere intellectualism; claims of spiritual experience without biblical truth become dangerous enthusiasm. We need both the Word and the Spirit.

When you think about the Holy Spirit today, think not first of gifts, manifestations, or experiences. Think of God Himself dwelling within His people, applying the redemption purchased by Christ and transforming sinners into saints.

Contemplation

Do I reverence the Holy Spirit as Almighty God, or have I sometimes thought of Him merely as an influence or experience?

Puritan Quote

John Owen wrote:

“The Holy Ghost is the immediate author of all grace in us.”

Prayer

Holy Spirit, forgive me for every inadequate thought I have entertained concerning Your majesty. Teach me to reverence You as God and submit myself to Your sanctifying work through the Word. Glorify Christ in me. Amen.

Application

Read John 14–16 and note everything Jesus teaches concerning the Person and ministry of the Holy Spirit.

Pray for the Spirit's Convicting Work

 Pray for the Spirit's Convicting Work

Scripture: Ezekiel 36:26–27 (KJV)

"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you..."

Personal Reflection

Chapter 25 of “Steadfast in the Storm” closes with a powerful prayer asking the Holy Spirit to do what only He can do—to convict sinners, reveal Christ, grant repentance, and create new hearts. It reminds us that salvation is never produced by human persuasion but by divine intervention. 

This truth should profoundly shape our prayers for unbelieving family members and friends. Too often we ask God merely to make their lives easier or help them solve temporary problems. While those are worthy requests, their greatest need is far deeper. They need the Holy Spirit to awaken them to their lost condition and draw them irresistibly to Christ.

Such prayers require faith. Conviction is often painful before it becomes joyful. We naturally want those we love to avoid discomfort, but eternal love seeks eternal salvation above temporary ease. Better to be pierced by the Spirit today than condemned forever.

The same prayer also applies to our own hearts. We should continually ask God to search us, expose hidden sin, deepen our repentance, and increase our love for Christ. A tender conscience is one of God's greatest gifts to His children.

May we become people who depend upon the Holy Spirit in prayer, trusting Him to accomplish what no human effort can ever achieve.

Contemplation

Do my prayers for the lost focus primarily on their temporal needs or their eternal souls?

Puritan Quote

John Bunyan wrote:

"Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the heart unto God."

Prayer

Holy Spirit, work powerfully in the hearts of those I love who are still without Christ. Convict them of sin, reveal the beauty of the Savior, and grant them true repentance and saving faith. Keep my own heart tender until the day I stand before Christ. Amen.

Application

Make a list of three unbelievers and begin praying daily that the Holy Spirit would convict them through the preaching and reading of God's Word, bringing them to genuine repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Come Clean, Come Clear

 Come Clean, Come Clear

Scripture: Luke 18:13 (KJV)

"God be merciful to me a sinner."

Personal Reflection

The old evangelistic appeal, "Come clean, come clear," beautifully summarizes the message of the Scripture call of repentance. Before God, there is no value in pretending, hiding, bargaining, or defending ourselves. The Holy Spirit strips away every mask until we stand honestly before a holy God.

When conviction reaches its proper work, the sinner stops blaming parents, circumstances, society, or anyone else. He no longer minimizes his guilt. Like the publican in Christ's parable, he simply pleads for mercy. This is not despair but hope, because God never rejects the truly repentant heart. 

Even mature believers must repeatedly "come clean and come clear." Though our sins have been forgiven judicially, daily fellowship with God flourishes through honest confession and humble repentance. Pride keeps us distant from God; confession restores sweet communion.

The cross remains the safest place for honest sinners. There we find justice fully satisfied and mercy freely offered. Christ has already borne the punishment our sins deserved. Therefore, we need never fear bringing every failure into His presence.

God does not bless hypocrisy, but He delights in broken and contrite hearts.

Contemplation

Is there anything I have been hiding from God that I need to confess openly before Him today?

Puritan Quote

Thomas Watson wrote:

"Till sin be bitter, Christ will not be sweet."

Prayer

Merciful Father, I come clean and come clear before You. Search my heart, forgive my sins, and restore the joy of close fellowship through the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Application

Take time today to confess specific sins to God instead of speaking only in general terms.

The Cry of a Convicted Soul

 The Cry of a Convicted Soul

Scripture: Acts 2:37 (KJV)

"Men and brethren, what shall we do?"

Personal Reflection

One of the clearest evidences of Holy Spirit conviction is a heart that begins asking the right questions. Before conviction, the sinner argues, excuses, criticizes, or remains indifferent. After conviction, he cries, "What shall I do?" His concern is no longer winning an argument but finding mercy.

Scripture describes how the hearers on the Day of Pentecost were confounded, pierced in their hearts, amazed, and deeply troubled. Their self-confidence disappeared under the searching light of God's truth. The Holy Spirit had done what no human persuasion could accomplish. 

This remains God's pattern. Conviction dismantles self-righteousness. It silences excuses. It causes the sinner to own his guilt before a holy God. Yet this painful work is filled with mercy because it prepares the heart to receive Christ.

Believers also continue asking this question in sanctification. "Lord, what would You have me do?" becomes the cry of every submissive heart. Conviction leads not only to conversion but also to increasing obedience throughout the Christian life.

May we never despise the work that brings us to the end of ourselves, for it is there that Christ becomes most precious.

Contemplation

Has God brought me to the place where I genuinely desire His will above my own?

Puritan Quote

Richard Baxter wrote:

"God breaks the heart before He binds it up."

Prayer

Father, keep me humble before Your Word. May Your Spirit continually teach me, correct me, and lead me in the paths of righteousness. Amen.

Application

Spend time quietly before God today, asking Him, "Lord, what would You have me change?" Then obey what He reveals through Scripture.

Beware of False Peace

 Beware of False Peace

Scripture: Jeremiah 6:14 (KJV)

"They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace."

Personal Reflection

One of Satan's greatest deceptions is convincing people they possess peace with God when they have never experienced true conversion. Scripture warns against the many substitutes modern religion offers in place of Holy Spirit conviction: repeating a prayer, signing a card, walking an aisle, joining a church, or relying upon an emotional experience. None of these things, by themselves, save the soul. 

The false prophets of Jeremiah's day assured people that everything was well when judgment was approaching. Their message was comforting but deadly. They soothed consciences without addressing sin. They promised peace without repentance.

The danger remains today. Many are told they are Christians simply because they once made a profession of faith, even though their lives show no evidence of repentance, holiness, or love for Christ. Such false assurance is one of the cruelest gifts a person can receive.

True peace comes only after conviction. It is not manufactured by positive thinking or religious ceremony. It is purchased by Christ's blood and applied by the Holy Spirit. The peace that Christ gives rests upon reconciliation with God, not merely emotional comfort.

If the Spirit has truly brought you to Christ, rejoice in genuine peace. If you are trusting something other than Christ Himself, flee to Him today.

Contemplation

Is my assurance rooted in Christ's finished work or in a past religious experience?

Puritan Quote

Thomas Brooks wrote:

"There is no greater judgment than to be left to a false peace."

Prayer

Lord Jesus, keep me from every false refuge. Let my confidence rest wholly upon Your finished work and the witness of Your Spirit through Your Word. Amen.

Application

Examine the basis of your assurance today by reading 1 John and asking whether your confidence rests in Christ alone.