This passage from the Letter to the Hebrews encourages believers to progress in their faith journey, moving beyond the foundational principles of Christianity towards a deeper understanding of God's truth. The opening exhortation, "Therefore leaving the teaching of the first principles of Christ," signals a call to spiritual maturity. It suggests that believers should not remain stagnant in their understanding but should progress in their knowledge and application of the principles of Christ.
Pressing on to Perfection: The phrase "let us press on to perfection" implies a journey towards spiritual maturity and completeness. The goal is not merely intellectual understanding but a transformative growth in faith.
- Not Laying Again a Foundation
Repentance from Dead Works: The initial step in the Christian journey involves turning away from sinful behaviors and embracing a life of righteousness through Christ.
Faith Toward God: Central to Christian doctrine is faith in God. This foundational principle underscores trust and reliance on the character and promises of God.
Teaching of Baptisms: The inclusion of baptisms (plural) suggests a broader understanding, possibly encompassing both water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, symbolizing initiation into the Christian community.
Laying on of Hands: This practice is associated with various aspects, including the impartation of blessings, commissioning for ministry, and the reception of the Holy Spirit.
Resurrection of the Dead: A fundamental Christian belief in the resurrection, emphasizing the hope of eternal life beyond physical death.
Eternal Judgment: The recognition of a future judgment, where individuals will be held accountable for their choices and actions.
Significance for Today
Call to Spiritual Progress: Believers are encouraged to view their faith journey as a continual process of growth and maturity. The call to "press on to perfection" challenges complacency and urges active pursuit of a deeper relationship with God.
Embrace Comprehensive Understanding: The mention of foundational principles invites believers to explore the richness and depth of Christian doctrine. It encourages a holistic understanding that goes beyond surface-level knowledge.
Application of Truth: The foundational principles mentioned involve both belief and action. Believers are prompted not only to understand these principles intellectually but to live them out in daily life.
Cross-References:
Philippians 3:12-14: "Not that I have already obtained, or am already made perfect; but I press on, that I may take hold of that for which also I was taken hold of by Christ Jesus." Paul's words in Philippians echo the theme of pressing on to perfection and spiritual maturity.
Colossians 2:6-7: "As therefore you received Christ Jesus, the Lord, walk in him, rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, even as you were taught, abounding in it in thanksgiving." This passage aligns with the call to be rooted and built up in Christ, emphasizing ongoing spiritual growth.
Conclusion: Hebrews 6:1-2 serves as a call to move beyond the foundational principles of their faith and press on to spiritual maturity. As we embrace a comprehensive understanding of Christian doctrine and apply these truths in their lives, we participate in the ongoing process of transformation and growth.
See also: vs 4-6
Hebrews 6:1-2. Leaving the teaching of the first principles of Christ, let us press on to perfection—not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works, of faith toward God, of the teaching of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.