Hebrews 5:11—6:20: The Race to Maturity
Peter Snell, former Olympic gold medalist, said that the only way to win a race is to get in front and go flat out. Prior to that, he said, it takes a whole lot of hard training and self-discipline. The Hebrews were in desperate danger of quitting the race, so the writer urged them to go forward. This is a chapter with four strong appeals: "Let us go on to maturity" (v. 1). "Show diligence" (v. 11). "Do not become lazy" (v. 12). "Take hold of the hope" (v. 18).
Warming Up to God
When are you most tempted to drop out of the faith-race? Why?
Read Hebrews 5:11—6:20. »
Discovering the Word
- How would you describe the failures of the Hebrews (5:11-14)?
- In view of their resources and opportunities for growth, how do you account for their problems?
- According to 6:6, why is it absolutely essential to develop Christian maturity?
- What hope does the writer see for better things to come (vv. 9-10)? Why?
- What essential part of God's nature encourages the Hebrews to be positive and hopeful about their future (vv. 13-18)?
Applying the Word
- Two kinds of land production vividly portray the reason to go on to maturity (6:7-8). How does each characterize your life?
- As you reflect on your track record, of both diligence and laziness (6:11-12), how can you improve?
- In verses 19-20 the writer returns to the Hebrews' familiar religion of priests and their temple with its holy place curtained off. In other words, it was a picture of a more profound spiritual reality in Christ. How does Jesus fulfill your deepest aspirations and help you to go on to maturity in your faith-race?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to firmly anchor your soul with hope in Christ.
For Further Study
Christian Disciplines by Andrea Louthan & Peter Scazzero