“Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God” (Hebrews 6:1).
The word “therefore” alerts us to the need to pay attention whenever it appears within the Scriptures. You see, this word signals a transition from a teaching or idea to an associated action or behavior.
As we’ll see over the next few chapters, the author of Hebrews will not permit his readers to use their immaturity as an excuse to avoid discussing some important spiritual topics. Instead, he will press forward even if they are not yet ready to grasp the subjects he is about to address. But first, Hebrews chapter six will serve as a transition into those advanced subjects.
Our author will begin this portion of Scripture with some of the “first principles” referenced earlier in Hebrews 5:12. He will then build upon those subjects on the way to his destination in Hebrews chapter seven. The opening verses of this chapter identify six of those basic teachings…
- Repentance. This refers to a change of mind that leads to a change in behavior. Repentance involves more than just a feeling of remorse, sorrow, or regret (although it may incorporate those responses). Genuine repentance involves a prayerful decision to turn from inappropriate behaviors, much like a motor vehicle that stops traveling in the wrong direction by making a U-turn.
- Faith. As we’ll later be told in Hebrews chapter eleven, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for” (Hebrews 11:1-2 NIV).
- Baptism. Baptism serves as a public association with Christ and an affirmation of the change that has taken place in the lives of those who have accepted Him as Savior. We’ll consider the various types of baptisms as we progress through this section.
- Laying on of hands. This action is associated with God’s empowerment to fulfill His call upon our lives.
- Resurrection of the dead. This reference addresses the future state that awaits the godly and the godless.
- Eternal judgment. As Jesus told us in John 5:28-29 “…the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son, and they will rise again. Those who have done good will rise to experience eternal life, and those who have continued in evil will rise to experience judgment” (NLT).
We’ll begin our consideration of these important topics next.