Hebrews 6:16

Hebrews 6:16

Promises, oaths and faith

This is a bit of a strange verse, but the author has a point to make. He wants his Jewish readers to understand that God’s promises will be fulfilled. He also wants them, and us, to be convinced that even though we may not yet see the fulfilment of all things, because God has spoken, it will be done. In this way we will, “through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Romans 4:12.

The point here is obvious, when we humans make an oath and need to affirm its authenticity we don’t do it by a stranger or a name that carries no weight. The subject of our oath must be someone or something greater than ourselves or that is extremely precious to us. We aim to convince the other party that what we say is true for we are willing to put someone or something we treasure at stake! As we read in this verse, an oath made on the Bible or on the name of one who is dear to us, adds weight to our legitimacy and there should remain no doubt that our word is true. There’s a hint here that God looked around for someone or something greater than Himself to swear by, but there was no other candidate, so, He used His own name to confirm what He had said to Abraham. Some will ask “Well what has that got to do with us?” Paul answers this question with relish in Romans 4 where he talks about being justified, not by works but by faith. Faith in what God has promised. Abraham learned this lesson and as a consequence, He received God’s promise by faith, in the same way, all who have faith like Abraham are part of the many nations that the Lord promised would be blessed through him. Promises, oaths and faith. What a trilogy, especially where God is involved! Hallelujah!

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