Hebrews 6:6

 

Hebrews 6:6

No going back!

It cannot have escaped our notice that there is a deliberate contrast here in that verses 1-3 of this chapter described the six “elementary teachings” that are regarded as an essential diet for the immature. We have already considered these in depth and their importance in the instruction of young believers. 

However, from verse 4, the author has been identifying the spiritual foundations of those who are mature in the faith, these characteristics are the products of a considerable time on the journey with God. Those who have matured: -

1.     Have been enlightened 

2.     Have tasted the heavenly gift

3.     Have shared in the Holy Spirit

4.     Have tasted the goodness of the Word of God

5.     Have also tasted the powers of the coming age

In my experience, these incredible experiences are not gained without hard endeavour, and for some there is a lifetime of faith required to make them a reality. According to the writer of Hebrews, it is impossible to have tasted all of these, then to fall away and be brought back to repentance. Every one of these qualities is a gift from the Lord, for many of us they describe some of the best moments in our lives and why life is so rich and full of meaning and purpose. I believe that the writer is literally stating a fact, it cannot be possible to have gained all that God has promised and granted to us, and then to glibly turn away and reject it all! That decision is so terminal and so offensive and disrespectful that there cannot be a reclaim or “going back” clause in our contract with the Lord. This is not just about losing faith; this is about rejecting the finest of feasts to which we have been invited as guests of honour. That is why the word “taste” is used so frequently. What God is saying is that “I have granted you access to my banquet, you have been served the very best that I can give you. Course by course you have feasted at my table and enjoyed all that I could serve to you whilst on earth. Are you now intending to walk away like it never happened? Do not think that one day, if you regret your decision and come to Me begging to be allowed back in, that you will be given another feast!” 

The verse here makes this personal. Such behaviour is a deliberate insult to the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us. To claim all that He has done, to revel in His salvation, to demonstrate to the world, our friends, family and brothers and sisters, that we are genuine followers of Yeshua, and then to reject Him and throw it all back in His face is the worst kind of rejection. What a disgrace! Is it possible that some might do this and then expect to give it all a second go, to be readmitted to the banquet? Well, if they do, God says “No!” We cannot ever be allowed to crucify the Son of God a second time, that would make Him a public disgrace as if His salvation is a toy to be played with, as and when we choose! I think this is talking about more than just back-sliding but infers a wholesale rejection of all that Christ has done for us and given us. There is a spiritual exchange here that cannot be reinstated.

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