Compiled By: Lisa K Gonzales
From: The Life Application Study Bible
4 “For it is impossible to restore to repentance those who were once enlightened – those who have experienced the good things of heaven and shared in the Holy Spirit, 5 who have tasted the goodness of the Word of GOD and the power of the age to come – 6 and who then turn away from GOD. It is impossible to bring such people to repentance again because they are nailing the Son of GOD to the cross again by rejecting Him, holding Him up to public shame.” ~ Hebrews 6:4-6
In the first century, a pagan who investigated Christianity and then went back to paganism made a clear break with the church. But for Jewish Christians who decided to return to Judaism, the break was less obvious. Their life-style remained relatively unchanged. But by deliberately turning away from Christ, they were cutting themselves off from GOD’s forgiveness. Those who persevere in believing are true saints, those who continue to reject Christ are unbelievers, no matter how well they live.
Verse six points out the danger of the Hebrew Christians returning to Judaism and therefore committing apostasy. Some apply this verse today to superficial believers who renounce their Christianity or to unbelievers who come close to salvation and then turn away. Either way, those who reject Christ will not be saved. Christ died once for all. He will not be crucified again. Apart from His cross, there is no other possible way of salvation. However, the author does not indicate that his readers were in danger of renouncing Christ. He is warning against hardness of the heart that would make repentance inconceivable for the sinner. Where do you stand?
Father GOD, we know Christ died for our sins and that He is the only way to salvation. We thank You Lord Jesus for coming to this earth filled with evil and injustice, just to save us and give us a life in eternity with You.
Photo: Texas Hill Country
Photo By: Lisa K Gonzales
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