CHAPTER SIX
ANALYSIS OF THE CHAPTER.
In Hebrews 5:10,11, the apostle had said that the Lord Jesus was
called to the office of high priest after the order of Melchisedek,
and that there were many things to be said of him which were not
easy to be understood. They had not, he says, advanced as far in
the knowledge of the true religion as might have been reasonably
expected, but had rather gone back, Hebrews 5:12-14. The design of
this chapter seems to be, to warn them against the danger of going
back entirely, and to encourage them to make the highest attainments
possible in the knowledge of Christianity, and in the divine life. The
apostle would keep them from entire apostasy, and would excite them to
make all the advances which they possibly could make; and particularly
he designs to prepare them to receive what he had yet to say about the
higher doctrines of the Christian religion. In doing this he presents the
following considerations.
(1.) An exhortation to leave the elements or rudiments of the Christian
religion, and to go on to the contemplation of the higher doctrines. The
elements were the doctrines of repentance, faith, laying on of hands,
the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. These entered into
the very nature of Christianity. They were its first principles, and were
indispensable. The higher doctrines related to other matters, which the
apostle called them now to contemplate, Hebrews 6:1-2.
(2.) He warns them, in the most solemn manner, against apostasy. He
assures them that, if they should apostatize, it would be impossible to
renew them again. They could not fall away from grace, and again be
renewed; they could not, after having been Christians and then
apostatizing, be recovered. Their fall, in that case, would be final and
irrecoverable, for there was no other way by which they could be saved;
and by rejecting the Christian scheme, they would reject the only plan
by which they could ever be brought to heaven. By this solemn
consideration, therefore, he warns them of the danger of going back from
their exalted hopes, or of neglecting the opportunities which they
had to advance to the knowledge of the higher truths of religion,
vers. Hebrews 6:4-6.
(3.) This sentiment is illustrated Hebrews 6:7,8 by a striking and
beautiful figure drawn from agriculture. The sentiment was, that
they who did not improve their advantage, and grow in the knowledge of
the gospel, but who should go back and apostatize, would inevitably be
destroyed. They could not be renewed and saved. It will be, says the
apostle, as it is with the earth. That which receives the rain that
falls, and that bears its proper increase for the use of man, partakes
of the Divine blessing. That which does not--which bears only thorns and
briers--is rejected, and is nigh to cursing, and will be burned with
fire.
(4.) Yet the apostle says, he hoped better things of them. They
had indeed receded from what they had been. They had not made
the advances which he says they might have done. But still, there
was reason to hope that they would not wholly apostatize, and be
cast off by God. They had shown that they had true religion, and
he believed that God would not forget the evidence which they
had furnished that they loved him, Hebrews 6:9,10.
(5.) He expresses his earnest wish that they all would show the
same diligence until they attained the full assurance of hope,
Hebrews 6:11,12.
(6.) To encourage them in this, he refers them to the solemn oath which
God had taken, and his sacred covenant with them confirmed by an oath,
in order that they might have true consolation, and be sustained in
the temptations and trials of life. That hope was theirs. It was sure
and steadfast. It entered into that within the veil; it had been
confirmed by him who had entered heaven as the great High Priest after
the order of Melchizedek, Hebrews 6:13-20. By such considerations he
would guard them from the danger of apostasy; he would encourage them to
diligence in the divine life; and he would seek to prepare them to
welcome the more high and difficult doctrines of the Christian religion.
Verse 1. Therefore. "Since, as was stated in the previous chapter,
you ought to be capable of comprehending the higher doctrines of
religion; since those doctrines are adapted to those who have been
for a considerable time professors of Christianity, and have had
opportunities of growing in knowledge and grace--as much as
strong meat is for those of mature years--leave now the elements
of Christian doctrine, and go on to understand its higher mysteries."
The idea is, that to those who had so long been acquainted with
the way of salvation, the elements of Christianity were no more
adapted than milk was for grown persons.
Leaving. Dismissing; intermitting; passing by the consideration of,
with a view to advance to something higher. The apostle refers to his
discussion of the subject, and also to their condition. He wished to go
on to the contemplation of higher doctrines, and he desired that they
should no longer linger around the mere elements.ú "Let us advance to
a higher state of knowledge than the mere elements of the subject."
On the sense of the word "leaving," or quitting with a view to
engage in something else, see Matthew 4:20,22; 5:24.
The principles. Marg. The word of the beginning of Christ.
Tindal renders it, "let us leave the doctrine pertaining to the beginning
of a Christian man." Coverdale, "let us leave the doctrine pertaining to
the beginning of a Christian life." On the word "principles" see
See Barnes "Hebrews 5:12". The Greek there, indeed, is not
the same as in this place, but the idea is evidently the same.
The reference is to what he regarded as the very elements of the
Christian doctrine; and the meaning is, "Let us no longer linger
here.' We should go on to higher attainments. We should wholly understand
the system. We should discuss and receive its great principles. You have
been long enough converted to have understood these; but you linger among
the very elementary truths of religion. But you cannot remain here. You
must either advance or recede; and if you do not go forward, you will go
back into entire apostasy, when it will be impossible to be renewed."
The apostle here, therefore, does not refer to his discussion of the
points under consideration as the main thing, but to their state as
one of danger; and in writing to them he was not content to discuss the
elements of religion as being alone fitted to their condition, but would
have them make higher attainments, and advance to the more elevated
principles of the gospel.
Of the doctrine. Literally, "the word" \~logon\~--reason, or doctrine
of the beginning of Christ." That is, the word or reason that pertains to
the elements of his system; the first principles of Christian doctrine.
Of Christ. Which pertain to the Messiah. Either that which he
taught, or that which is taught of him and his religion, Most probably
it is the latter--that which pertains to the Messiah, or to the
Christian revelation. The idea is, that there is a set of truths which
maybe regarded as lying at the foundation of Christian doctrine, and
those truths they had embraced, but had not advanced beyond them.
Let us go on. Let us advance to a higher state of knowledge and
holiness. The reference is alike to his discussion of the subject,
and to their advancement in piety and in knowledge. He would not linger
around these elements in the discussion, nor would he have them linger
at the threshold of the Christian doctrines.
Unto perfection. Comp. See Barnes "Hebrews 2:10". The word here is
used, evidently, to denote an advanced state of Christian knowledge and
piety; or the more elevated Christian doctrines, and the holier living
to which it was their duty to attain. It does not refer solely to the
intention of the apostle to discuss the more elevated doctrines of
Christianity, but to such an advance as would secure them from the
danger of apostasy. If it should be said, however, that the word
"perfection" is to be understood in the most absolute and unqualified
sense, as denoting entire freedom from sin, it may be remarked,
(1.) that this does not prove that they ever attained to it, nor should
this be adduced as a text to show that such an attainment is ever made.
To exhort a man to do a thing--however reasonable--is no proof in
itself that it is ever done.
(2.) It is proper to exhort Christians to aim at entire perfection.
Even if none have ever reached that point on earth, that fact does not
make it any the less desirable or proper to aim at it.
(3.) There is much in making an honest attempt to be perfectly holy,
even though we should not attain to it in this life. No man
accomplishes much who does not aim high.
Not laying again the foundation. Not laying down--as one does a
foundation for an edifice. The idea is, that they were not to begin
and build all this over again. They were not to make it necessary to
lay down again the very corner-stones, and the foundations of the
edifice, but since these were laid already, they were to go on and
build the superstructure and complete the edifice.
Of repentance from dead works. From works that cause death or
condemnation; or that have no vitality or life. The reference may be
either to those actions which were sinful in their nature, or to those
which related to the forms of religion, where there was no spiritual
life. This was the character of much of the religion of the Jews; and
conversion to the true religion consisted greatly in repentance for
having relied on those heartless and hollow forms. It is possible that
the apostle referred mainly to these, as he was writing to those who
had been Hebrews. When formalists are converted, one of the first and
the main exercises of their minds in conversion, consists in deep and
genuine sorrow for their dependence on those forms. Religion is life;
and irreligion is a state of spiritual death, (comp.
See Barnes " 2:1", whether it be in open transgression, or in
false and hollow forms of religion. The apostle has here stated what is
the first element of the Christian religion. It consists in genuine
sorrow for sin, and a purpose to turn from it. See Barnes "Matthew 3:2".
And of faith toward God. See Barnes "Mark 16:16". This is the
second element in the Christian system. Faith is everywhere required in
order to salvation, but it is usually faith in the Lord Jesus that is
spoken of. See Acts 20:21. Here, however faith in God is particularly
referred to. But there is no essential difference. It is faith in God in
regard to his existence and perfections, and to his plan of saving men.
It includes, therefore, faith in his message and messenger, and thus
embraces the plan of salvation by the Redeemer. There is but one God--
"the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ;" and he who believes
in the true God, believes in him as Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,
the Author of the plan of redemption, and the Saviour of lost men.
No one can believe in the true God who does not believe in the
Saviour. Comp. John 5:23; 17:3. He who supposes that he confides
in any other God than the Author of the Christian religion, worships
a being of the imagination as really as though he bowed down to a
block of wood or stone. If Christianity is true, there is no such God
as the infidel professes to believe in, any more than the god of the
Brahmin has an existence. To believe in God, therefore, is to
believe in him as he actually exists--as the true God--the Author
of the great plan of salvation by the Redeemer. It is needless to
attempt to show that faith in the true God is essential to salvation.
How can he be saved who has no confidence in the God that made him?
{a} "dead works" Hebrews 9:14
{b} "toward God" Hebrews 11:6
Verse 2. Of the doctrine of baptisms. This is mentioned as the third
element or principle of the Christian religion. The Jews made
much of various kinds of washings, which were called baptisms.
See Barnes "Mark 7:4". It is supposed, also, that they were in the
practice of baptizing proselytes to their religion.
See Barnes "Matthew 3:6". Since they made so much of various kinds of
ablution, it was important that the true doctrine on the subject should
be stated as one of the elements of the Christian religion, that they
might be recalled from superstition, and that they might enjoy the
benefits of what was designed to be an important aid to piety--the true
doctrine of baptisms. It will be observed that the plural form is
used here--baptisms. There are two baptisms whose necessity is
taught by the Christian religion--baptism by water, and by the
Holy Ghost: the first of which is an emblem of the second. These
are stated to be among the elements of Christianity, or the things
which Christian converts would first learn. The necessity of both
is taught. "He that believeth, and is baptized shall be saved,"
Mark 16:16. "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he
cannot enter into the kingdom of God," John 3:5. On the baptism of
the Holy Ghost, See Barnes "Matthew 3:11"; See Barnes "Acts 1:6";
comp. Acts 19:1-6. To understand the true doctrine respecting baptism
was one of the first principles to be learned then, as it is now, as
baptism is the rite by which we are initiated into the Church. This
was supposed to be so simple, that young converts could understand it as
one of the elements of the true religion; and the teaching on that
subject now should be made so plain that the humblest disciple may
comprehend it. If it was an element or first principle of religion; if
it was presumed that any one who entered the Church could understand it,
can it be believed that it was then so perplexing and embarrassing as it
is often made now? Can it be believed that a vast array of learning, and
a knowledge of languages, and a careful inquiry into the customs of
ancient times, was needful in order that a candidate for baptism should
understand it? The truth is, that it was probably regarded as
among the most simple and plain matters of religion; and every
convert was supposed to understand that the application of water
to the body in this ordinance, in any mode, was designed to be
merely emblematic of the influences of the Holy Ghost.
And of laying on of hands. This is the fourth element or
principle
of religion. The Jews practised the laying on of hands on a great
variety of occasions. It was done when a blessing was imparted
to any one; when prayer was made for one; and when they offered sacrifice
they laid their hands on the head of the victim, confessing their sins,
Leviticus 16:21; 24:14; Numbers 8:12. It was done on occasions of solemn
consecration to office, and when friend supplicated the Divine favour
on friend. In like manner, it was often done by the Saviour and the
apostles. The Redeemer laid his hands on children to bless them, and on
the sick when he healed them, Matthew 19:13; Mark 5:23; Matthew 9:18. In like
manner, the apostles laid hands on others in the following circumstances:
--
(1.) In healing the sick, Acts 28:8.
(2.) In ordination to office, 1 Timothy 5:22; Acts 6:6.
(3.) In imparting the miraculous influences of the Holy Spirit,
Acts 8:17,19; 19:6. The true doctrine respecting the design of laying
on the hands, is said here to be one of the elements of the Christian
religion. That the custom of laying on the hands, as symbolical of
imparting spiritual gifts, prevailed in the Church in the time of the
apostles, no one can doubt. But on the question whether it is to be
regarded as of perpetual obligation in the Church, we are to remember,
(1.) that the apostles were endowed with the power of imparting the
influences of the Holy Ghost in a miraculous or extraordinary manner.
It was with reference to such an imparting of the Holy Spirit that
the expression is used in each of the eases where it occurs in the New
Testament.
(2.) The Saviour did not appoint the imposition of the hands
of a "bishop" to be one of the rites or ceremonies to be observed
perpetually in the Church. The injunction to be baptized and to observe
his Supper is positive, and is universal in its obligation. But there
is no such command respecting the imposition of hands.
(3.) No one now is entrusted with the power of imparting the Holy
Spirit in that manner. There is no class of officers in the Church that
can make good their claim to any such power. What evidence is there
that the Holy Spirit is imparted at the rite of "confirmation?"
(4.) It is liable to be abused, or to lead persons to substitute the form
for the thing; or to think that because they have been "confirmed,"
that therefore they are sure of the mercy and favour of God. Still, if
it be regarded as a simple form of admission to a church, without
claiming that it is enjoined by God, or that it is connected with any
authority to impart the Holy Spirit, no objection can be made to it,
any more than there need be to any other form of recognising
church-membership. Every pastor has a right, if he chooses, to lay his
hands on the members of his flocks and to implore a blessing on them;
and such an act, on making a profession of religion, would have much in
it that would be appropriate and solemn.
And of resurrection of the dead. This is mentioned as the fifth
element or principle of the Christian religion. This doctrine was denied
by the Sadducees, Mark 12:18; Acts 23:8 and was ridiculed by
philosophers, Acts 17:32. It was, however, clearly taught by the
Saviour, John 5:28,29, and became one of the cardinal doctrines of
his religion. By the resurrection of the dead, however, in the New
Testament, there is more intended than the resurrection of the
body. The question about the resurrection included the whole
inquiry about the future state, or whether man would live at all in
the future world. Comp. See Barnes "Matthew 22:23";
See Barnes "Acts 23:6". This is one of the most important subjects that
can come before the human mind, and one on which man has felt more
perplexity than any other. The belief of the resurrection of the dead is
an elementary article in the system of Christianity. It lies at the
foundation of all our hopes. Christianity is designed to prepare us
for a future state; and one of the first things, therefore, in the
preparation, is to assure us that there/s a future state, and to tell
us what it is. It is, moreover, a peculiar doctrine of Christianity.
The belief of the resurrection is found in no other system of religion,
nor is there a ray of light shed upon the future condition of man by any
other scheme of philosophy or religion.
And of eternal judgment. This is the sixth element or principle of
religion. It is, that there will be a judgment whose consequences will
be eternal. It does not mean, of course, that the process of the
judgment will be eternal, or that the judgment-day will continue for
ever; but that the results or consequents of the decision of that day
will continue for ever. There will be no appeal from the sentence, nor
will there be any reversal of the judgment then pronounced. What is
decided then will be determined for ever. The approval of the righteous
will fix their state eternally in heaven, and, in like manner, the
condemnation of the wicked will fix their doom for ever in hell.
This doctrine was one of the earliest that was taught by the Saviour and
his apostles, and is inculcated in the New Testament perhaps with more
frequency than any other. See Matthew 25; Acts 17:31. That the consequences
or results of the judgment will be eternal, is abundantly affirmed.
See Matthew 25:46; John 5:29; 2 Thessalonians 1:9; Mark 9:45,48.
{c} "doctrine" Acts 19:4,5
{d} "laying on of hands" Acts 8:17
{e} "resurrection" Acts 17:31; 26:8
Verse 3. And this will we do. We will make these advances towards
a higher state of knowledge and piety. Paul had confidence that
they would do it Hebrews 6:9,10; and though they had lingered
long around the elements of Christian knowledge, he believed that
they would yet go on to make higher attainments.
If God permit. This is not to be interpreted as if God was
unwilling that they should make such advances, or if it were
doubtful whether he would allow it if they made an honest effort,
and their lives were spared; but it is a phrase used to denote their
dependence on him. It is equivalent to saying, "if he would spare
their lives, their health, and their reason; if he would continue the
means of grace, and would impart his Holy Spirit; if he would favour
their efforts, and crown them with success, they would make these
advances." In reference to anything that we undertake, however
pleasing to God in itself, it is proper to recognise our entire
dependence on God. See James 4:13-16. Comp. See Barnes "John 15:5".
{a} "if God permit" James 4.15
Verse 4. For it is impossible. It is needless to say that the passage
here Hebrews 6:4-6 has given occasion to much controversy, and
that the opinions of commentators and of the Christian world are
yet greatly divided in regard to its meaning. On the one hand, it
is held that the passage is not intended to describe those who are
true Christians, but only those who have been awakened and enlightened, and
who then fall back; and on the other, it is maintained that it refers to
those who are true Christians, and who then apostatize. The contending
parties have been Calvinists and Armenians; each party, in general,
interpreting it according to the views which are held on the question about
falling from grace. I shall endeavour, as well as I may be able, to state
the true meaning of the passage, by an examination of the words and phrases
in detail: observing here, in general, that it seems to me that it refers
to true Christians; that the object is to keep them from apostasy; and that
it teaches that, if they should apostatize, it would be impossible to renew
them again, or to save them. That it refers to true Christians will be
apparent from these considerations:--
(1.) Such is the sense which would strike the great mass of readers. Unless
there were some theory to defend, the great body of readers of the New
Testament would consider the expression here used as describing true
Christians.
(2.) The connexion demands such an interpretation. The apostle was
addressing Christians. He was endeavouring to keep them from apostasy. The
object was not to keep those who were awakened and enlightened from
apostasy, but it was to preserve those who were already in the
Church of Christ from going back to perdition. The kind of exhortation
appropriate to those who were awakened and convicted, but who were not
truly converted, would be to become converted; not to warn them of the
danger of falling away. Besides, the apostle would not have said of
such persons that they could not be converted and saved. [But of sincere
Christians it might be said, with the utmost propriety, that they
could not be renewed again, and be saved, if they should fall
away--because they rejected the only plan of salvation after they had tried
it, and renounced the only scheme of redemption after they had tasted its
benefits. If that plea could not save them, what could? If they neglected
that, by what Other means could they be brought to God?
(3.) This interpretation accords, as I suppose, with the exact meaning of
the phrases which the apostle uses. An examination of those phrases will
show that he refers to those who are sincere believers. The phrase "it is
impossible," obviously and properly denotes absolute impossibility. It has
been contended, by Storr and others, that it denotes only great difficulty.
But the meaning which would at first strike all readers would be, that the
thing could not be done; that it was not merely very difficult, but
absolutely impracticable. The word--\~adunaton\~--occurs only in the
New Testament in the following places, in all which it denotes that the
thing could not be done. Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27: "With men this is
impossible;" that is, men could not save one who was rich; implying that
the thing was wholly beyond human power. Luke 18:27: "The things which
are impossible with men are possible with God"---referring to the same
case. Acts 14:8 "A man of Lystra, impotent in his feet;" that is, who
was wholly unable to walk. Romans 8:3: "For what the law could not do;"
what was absolutely impossible for the law to accomplish; that is,
to save men. Hebrews 6:18: "In which it was impossible for God to lie."
Hebrews 10:4: "It is not possible for the blood of bulls and of goats
to take away sin." And Hebrews 11:6: "Without faith it is impossible
to please God."--In all of these instances denoting absolute impossibility.
These passages show that it is not merely a great difficulty to which the
apostle refers, but that he meant to say that the thing was wholly
impracticable; that it could not be done. And if this be the meaning, then
it proves that if those referred to should fall away, they could never be
renewed; their case was hopeless, and they must perish:--that is, if a true
Christian should apostatize, or fall from grace, he never could be renewed
again, and could not be saved. Paul did not teach that he might fall away
and be renewed again as often as he pleased. He had other views of the
grace of God than this; and he meant to teach, that if a man should once
cast off true religion, his case was hopeless, and he must perish: and by
this solemn consideration--the only one that would be effectual in such a
case--he meant to guard them against the danger of apostasy.
For those who were once enlightened. The phrase "to be enlightened" is
one that is often used in the Scriptures, and may be applied either to one
whose understanding has been enlightened to discern his duty, though he is
not converted, (comp. See Barnes "John 1:9";) or, more commonly, to one
who is truly converted. See Barnes "Ephesians 1:18". It does not of necessity
refer to true Christians, though it cannot be denied that it more obviously
suggests the idea that the heart is truly changed, and that it is more
commonly used in that sense. Comp. Psalms 19:8. Light, in the Scriptures,
is the emblem of knowledge, holiness, and happiness; and there is no
impropriety here in understanding it in accordance with the more decisive
phrases which follow, as referring to true Christians.
And have tasted. To taste of a thing means, according to the usage in
the Scriptures, to experience, or to understand it. The expression is
derived from the fact, that the taste is one of the means by which we
ascertain the nature or quality of an object. Comp. Matthew 16:28; John 8:51;
Hebrews 2:9. The proper idea here is, that they had experienced the
heavenly gift, or had learned its nature.
The heavenly gift. The gift from heaven, or which pertains to heaven.
See Barnes "John 4:10". The express!on properly means, some favour or
gift which has descended from heaven; and may refer to any of the benefits
which God has conferred on man in the work of redemption. It might include
the plan of salvation; the forgiveness of sins; the enlightening,
renewing, and sanctifying influences of the Holy Spirit, or any
one of the graces which that spirit imparts. The use of the article,
however,--" the heavenly gift,"--limits it to something special, as
being conferred directly from heaven; and the connexion would seem to
demand that we understand it of some peculiar favour which could be
conferred only on the children of God. It is an expression which may be
applied to sincere Christians; it is at least doubtful whether it can with
propriety be applied to any other.
And were made partakers of the Holy Ghost. Partakers of the influences
of the Holy Ghost--for it is only in this sense that we can partake of the
Holy Spirit. We partake of food when we share it with others; we
partake of pleasure when we enjoy it with others; we partake of spoils
in war when they are divided between us and others. So we partake of
the influences of the Holy Spirit when we share these influences conferred
on his people. This is not language which can properly be applied to any
one but a true Christian; and though it is true that an unpardoned
sinner may be enlightened and awakened by the Holy Spirit, yet
the language here used is not such as would be likely to be employed to
describe his state. It is too clearly expressive of those influences which
renew and sanctify the soul. It is as elevated language as can be used to
describe the joy of the Christian, and is undoubtedly used in that sense
here. If it is not, it would be difficult to find any language which would
properly express the condition of a renewed heart. Grotius, Bloomfield, and
some others, understood this or the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit.
But this is not necessary, and does not accord well with the general
description here, which evidently pertains to the mass of those whom the
apostle addressed.
{b} "impossible" Matthew 5:13; 12:31,32; John 15:6; Hebrews 10:26; 2 Peter 2:20,21
1 John 5:16
Verse 5. And have tasted the good word of God. That is, either the
doctrines which he teaches, and which are good or pleasant to the
soul; or the word of God which is connected with good, that is,
which promises good. The former seems to be the correct meaning--that the
word of God, or the truth which he taught, was itself a good. It was that
which the soul desired, and in which it found comfort and peace. Comp.
Psalms 119:103; 141:6. The meaning here is, that they had experienced the
excellency of the truth of God; they had seen and enjoyed its beauty. This
is language which cannot be applied to an impenitent sinner. He has no
relish for the truth of God; sees no beauty in it; derives no comfort
from it. It is only the true Christian who has pleasure in its
contemplation, and who can be said to "taste" and enjoy it. This language
describes a state or mind of which every sincere Christian is conscious, It
is that of pleasure in the word of God. He loves the Bible; he loves the
truth of God that is preached. He sees an exquisite beauty in that truth.
It is not merely in its poetry; in its sublimity; in its argument; but he
has now a taste or relish for the truth itself, which he had not before his
conversion. Then he might have admired the Bible for its beauty of
language, or for its poetry; he might have been interested in preaching for
its eloquence or power of argument; but now his love is for the truth.
Comp. Psalms 19:10. There is no book that he so much delights in as the
Bible; and no pleasure is so pure as that which he has in contemplating the
truth. Comp. Joshua 21:45; 23:16.
And the powers of the world to come. Or of the "coming age."
"The age to come" was a phrase in common use among the Hebrews, to denote
the future dispensation, the times of the Messiah. The same idea was
expressed by the phrases, "the last times," "the end of the world," etc.,
which are of so frequent occurrence in the Scriptures. They all denoted an
age which was to succeed the old dispensation; the time of the Messiah; or
the period in which the affairs of the world would be wound up.
See Barnes "Isaiah 2:2". Here it evidently refers to that period; and
the meaning is, that they had participated in the peculiar blessings
to be expected in that dispensation--to wit, in the clear views of
the way of salvation, and the influences of the Holy Spirit on the
soul. The word "powers" here implies that in that time there
would be some extraordinary manifestation of the power of God.
An unusual energy would be put forth to save men, particularly as evinced
by the agency of the Holy Spirit on the heart. Of this "power" the apostle
here says they of whom he spake had partaken. They had been brought under
the awakening and renewing energy which God put forth under the Messiah, in
saving the soul. They had experienced the promised blessings of the
new and last dispensation; and the language here is such as appropriately
describes Christians, and as indeed can be applicable to no other. It may
be remarked respecting the various expressions used here,
Hebrews 6:4,5,
(1.) that they are such as properly denote a renewed state. They obviously
describe the condition of a Christian; and though it may be not certain
that any one of them, if taken by itself, would prove that the
person to whom it was applied was truly converted, yet, taken together, it
is clear that they are designed to describe such a state. If they are not,
it would be difficult to find any language which would be properly
descriptive of the character of a sincere Christian. I regard the
description here, therefore, as that which is clearly designed to denote
the state of those who were born again, and were the true children of God;
and it seems plain to me, that no other interpretation would have ever been
thought of, if this view had not seemed to conflict with the doctrine of
the "perseverance of the saints."
(2.) There is a regular gradation here from the first elements of
piety in the soul to its highest developments; and, whether the
apostle so designed it or not, the language describes the successive
steps by which a true Christian advances to the highest stage of
Christian experience. The mind is
(a.) enlightened; then
(b.) tastes the gift of heaven, or has some experience of it; then
(c.) it is made to partake of the influences of the Holy Ghost; then
(d.) there is experience of the excellence and loveliness of the word
of God; and
(e.) finally, there is a participation of the full "powers"
of the new dispensation--of the extraordinary energy which God puts forth
in the gospel to sanctify and save the soul.
{+} "to come" "The mighty works of that age that is to come"
Verse 6. If they shall fall away. Literally, "and having fallen away."
"There is no if in the Greek in this place--' having fallen away.'"
Dr. J. P. Wilson. It is not an affirmation that any had actually
fallen away, or that, in fact, they would do it; but the statement is,
that on the supposition that they had fallen away, it would be impossible
to renew them again. It is the same as supposing a case which, in fact,
might never occur:--as if we should say, "had a man fallen down a
precipice, it would be impossible to save him;" or, "had the child fallen
into the stream, he would certainly have been drowned." But though this
literally means "having fallen away," yet the sense, in the connexion in
which it stands, is not improperly expressed by our common translation. The
Syriac has given a version Which is remarkable, not as a correct
translation, but as showing what was the prevailing belief in the time in
which it was made, (probably the first or second century,) in regard to
the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. "For it is impossible
that they who have been baptized, and who have tasted the gift which is
from heaven, and have received the spirit of holiness, and have tasted the
good word of God, and the power of the coming age, should again sin, so
that they should be renewed again to repentance, and again crucify the Son
of God, and put him to ignominy." The word rendered "fall away" means,
properly, "to fall near by any one;" "to fall in with, or meet;" and thus
to fall aside from, to swerve or deviate from; and here means undoubtedly
to apostatize from, and implies an entire renunciation of Christianity,
or a going back to a state of Judaism, heathenism, or sin. The Greek word
occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It is material to remark here,
that the apostle does not say that any true Christian ever had fallen away.
He makes a statement of what would occur on the supposition that such a
thing should happen -but a statement may be made of what would occur on the
supposition that a certain thing should take place, and yet it be morally
certain that the event never would happen. It would be easy to suppose what
would happen if the ocean should overflow a continent, or if the sun should
cease to rise, and still there be entire certainty that such an event never
would occur.
To renew them again. Implying that they had been before renewed,
or had been true Christians. The word again"--\~palin\~ --supposes
this; and this passage, therefore, confirms the considerations suggested
above, showing that they were true Christians who were referred to. They
had once repented, but it would be impossible to bring them to this state
again. The declaration, of course, is to be read in connexion with the
first clause of Hebrews 6:4, "It is impossible to renew again to
repentance those who once were true Christians, should they fall away." I
know of no declaration more unambiguous than this. It is a positive
declaration. It is not that it would be very difficult to do it; or that it
would be impossible for man to do it, though it might be done by God; it is
an unequivocal and absolute declaration that it would be utterly
impracticable that it should be done by any one, or by any means; and this,
I have no doubt, is the meaning of the apostle. Should a Christian fall
from grace, he must perish. HE NEVER COULD BE SAVED The reason of
this the apostle immediately, adds.
Seeing. This word is not in the Greek, though the sense is expressed.
The Greek literally is, "having again crucified to themselves the Son of
God." The reason here given is, that the crime would be so great, and they
would so effectually exclude themselves from the only plan of salvation,
that they could not be saved. There is but one way of salvation.
Having tried that, and then renounced it, how could they then be
saved? The case is like that of a drowning man. If there was but one plank
by which he could be saved, and he should get on that, and then push it
away and plunge into the deep, he must die. Or if there was but one rope by
which the shore could be reached from a wreck, and he should cut that and
cast it off, he must die. Or if a man were sick, and there was but one kind
of medicine that could possibly restore him, and he should deliberately
dash that away, he must die. So in religion. There is but one way of
salvation. If a man deliberately rejects that, he must perish.
They crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh. Our translators
have rendered this as if the Greek were-- \~anastaurountav palin\~--
crucify again, and so it is rendered by Chrysostom, by Tindal, Coverdale,
Beza, Luther, and others. But this is not properly the meaning of the Greek.
The word \~anastaurow\~ is an intensive word, and is employed instead of the usual
word "to crucify," only to denote emphasis. It means that such an act of
apostasy would be equivalent to crucifying him in an aggravated manner.
Of course this is to be taken figuratively. It could not be literally
true that they would thus crucify the Redeemer. The meaning is, that their
conduct would be as if they had crucified him; it would bear a strong
resemblance to the act by which the Lord Jesus was publicly rejected and
condemned to die. The act of crucifying the Son of God was the great
crime which outpeers any other deed of human guilt. Yet the apostle says,
that should they who had been true Christians fall away, and reject him,
they would be guilty of a similar crime. It would be a public and solemn
act of rejecting him. It would show that if they had been there they
would have joined in the cry, "Crucify him, crucify him!" The intensity
and aggravation of such a crime perhaps the apostle meant to indicate
by the intensive or emphatic \~ana\~ in the \~anastaurountav\~. Such an
act would render their salvation impossible, because
(1.) the crime would be aggravated beyond that of those who rejected
him and put him to death--for they knew not what they did; and
(2.) because it would be a rejection of the only possible plan of
salvation, after they had had experience of its power and known its
efficacy. The phrase "to themselves," Tindal renders, "as concerning
themselves." Others, "as far as in them lies," or as far as they have
ability to do. Others, "to their own heart." Probably Grotius has suggested
the true sense. "They do it for themselves. They make the act their
own. It is as if they did it themselves; and they are to be regarded as
having done the deed." So we make the act of another our own when we
authorize it beforehand, or approve of it after it is done.
And put him to an open shame. Make him a public example; or hold him up
as worthy of death on the cross. See the same word explained in
See Barnes "Matthew 1:19", in the phrase, "make her a public example." The
word occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. Their apostasy and rejection
of the Saviour would be like holding him up publicly as deserving the
infamy and ignominy of the cross. A great part of the crime attending the
crucifixion of the Lord Jesus, consisted in exhibiting him to the passing
multitude as deserving the death of a malefactor. Of that sin they would
partake who should reject him, for they would thus show that they regarded
his religion as an imposture, and would, in a public manner, hold him up as
worthy only of rejection and contempt. Such, it seems to me, is the fair
meaning of this much-disputed passage--a passage which Would never have
given so much perplexity if it had not been supposed that the obvious
interpretation would interfere with some prevalent articles of theology.
The passage proves that if true Christians should apostatize, it would
be impossible to renew and save them. If then it should be asked whether I
believe that any true Christian ever did, or ever will fall from grace, and
wholly lose his religion, I would answer unhesitatingly, No. Comp.
See Barnes " :". If then it be asked what
was the use of a warning like this, I answer,
(1.) It would show the great sin of apostasy from God if it were to occur.
It is proper to state the greatness of an act of sin, though it might never
occur, in order to show how it would be regarded by God.
(2.) Such a statement might be one of the most effectual means of
preserving from apostasy. To state that a fall from a precipice would cause
certain death, would be one of the most certain means of preserving one
from falling; to affirm that arsenic would be certainly fatal, is one of
the most effectual means of preventing its being taken; to know that fire
certainly destroys, is one of the most sure checks from the danger.
Thousands have been preserved from going over the Falls of Niagara by
knowing that there would be no possibility of escape; and so effectual has
been this knowledge, that it has preserved all from such a catastrophe,
except the very few who have gone over by accident. So in religion. The
knowledge that apostasy would be fatal, and there could be no hope of being
saved should it once occur, would be a more effectual preventive of the
danger than all the other means that could be used. If a man believed that
it would be an easy matter to be restored again, should he apostatize,
he would feel little solicitude in regard to it; and it has occurred,
in fact, that they who suppose that this may occur, have manifested
little of the care to walk in the paths of strict religion, which
should have been evinced.
(3.) It may be added, that the means used by God to preserve his people
from apostasy have been entirely effectual. There is no evidence that one
has ever fallen away who was a true Christian, Comp. John 10:27,28, and
1 John 2:19; and to the end of the world it will be true, that the
means which he uses to keep his people from apostasy will not in
a single instance fail.
{*} "seeing" "Since"
{+} "afresh" "again"
Verse 7. For the earth. The design of the apostle by this comparison
is apparent. It is to show the consequences of not making a proper use of
all the privileges which Christians have, and the effect which would follow
should those privileges fail to be improved. He says, it is like the earth.
If that absorbs the rain, and produces an abundant harvest, it receives
the Divine blessing. If not, it is cursed, or is worthless. The design is
to show that if Christians should become like the barren earth, they would
be cast away and lost.
Which drinketh in the rain. A comparison of the earth as if it were
"thirsty"--a comparison that is common in all languages.
That cometh oft upon it. The frequent showers that fall. The object is,
to describe fertile land which is often watered with the rains of heaven.
The comparison of "drinking in" the rain is designed to distinguish a
mellow soil which receives the rain, from hard or rocky rand where it runs
off.
And bringeth forth herbs. The word herbs we now limit, in common
discourse, to the small vegetables which die every year, and which are
used as articles of food, or to such in general as have not ligneous or
hard woody stems. The word here means anything which is cultivated
in the earth as an article of food, and includes all kinds of grains.
Meet for them. Useful or appropriate to them.
By whom it is dressed. Marg. "for whom." The meaning is, on account
of whom it is cultivated. The word "dressed" here means cultivated.
Comp. Genesis 2:15.
Receiveth blessing from God. Receives the Divine approbation. It is in
accordance with his wishes and plans, and he stories upon it and blesses
it. He does not curse it, as he does the desolate and barren soil. The
language is figurative, and must be used to denote that which is an object
of the Divine favour. God delights in the harvests which the earth
brings forth; in the effects of dews and rains and suns, in causing
beauty and abundance; and on much fields of beauty and plenty he looks down
with pleasure. This does not mean, as I suppose, that he renders it more
fertile and abundant, for
(1.) it cannot be shown that it is true that God thus rewards the earth for
its fertility; and
(2.) such an interpretation would not accord well with the scope of the
passage. The design is to show that a Christian who makes proper use of the
means of growing in grace which God bestows upon him, and who does not
apostatize, meets with the Divine favour and approbation. His course
accords with the Divine intention and wishes, and he is a man on whom God
will smile--as he seems to on the fertile earth.
{++} "earth" "land"
{*} "meet" "useful"
{1} "by" "for"
{+} "dressed" "belong to"
{a} "blessing" Psalms 65:10
Verse 8. But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected. That is,
by the farmer or owner. It is abandoned as worthless. The force of the
comparison here is, that God would thus deal with those who professed to be
renewed if they should be like such a worthless field.
And is nigh unto cursing. Is given over to execration, or is abandoned
as useless. The word cursing means, devoting to destruction. The sense is
not that the owner would curse it in words, or imprecate a curse on it, as
a man does who uses profane language, but the language is taken here from
the more common use of the word curse--as meaning to devote to destruction.
So the land would be regarded by the farmer. It would be valueless, and
would be given up to be overrun with fire.
Whose end is to be burned. Referring to the land. The allusion here is
to the common practice, among the Oriental and Roman agriculturists, of
burning bad and barren lands. An illustration of this is afforded by Pliny.
"There are some who burn the stubble on the field, chiefly upon the
authority of Virgil: the principal reason for which is, that they may burn
the seeds of weeds," Nat. Hist. xviii. 30. The authority of Virgil, to
which Pliny refers, may be found in Georg. i. 84.
"Saepe etiam steriles incendere profuit agros,
Atque levem stipulam crepitantibus urere flammis."
"It is often useful to set fire to barren lands, and burn the light
stubble in crackling flames." The object of burning land in this
way was to render it available for useful purposes; or to destroy
noxious weeds, and thorns, and underbrush. But the object of the apostle
requires him to refer merely to the fact of the burning, and to make
use of it as an illustration of an act of punishment. So, Paul says, it
would be in the dealings of God with his people. If, after all attempts to
secure holy living, and to keep them in the paths of salvation, they should
evince none of the spirit of piety, all that could be done would be to
abandon them to destruction, as such a field is overrun with fire. It is
not supposed that a true Christian will fall away and be lost; but we may
remark,
(1.) that there are many professed Christians who seem to be in danger of
such ruin. They resist all attempts to produce in them the fruits of good
living as really as some pieces of ground do to secure a harvest. Corrupt
desires, pride, envy, uncharitableness, covetousness, and vanity, are as
certainly seen in their lives as thorns and briers are on a bad soil. Such
briers and thorns you may cut down again and again; you may strike the
plough deep, and seem to tear away all their roots; you may sow the
ground with the choicest grain, but soon the briers and the thorns
will again appear and be as troublesome as ever. No pains will subdue them
or secure a harvest. So with many a professed Christian. He may be taught,
admonished, rebuked, and afflicted, but all will not do. There is essential
and unsubdued perverseness in his soul, and, despite all the attempts to
make him a holy man, the same bad passions are continually breaking out
anew.
(2.) Such professing Christians are "nigh unto cursings." They are about to
be abandoned for ever. Unsanctified and wicked in their hearts, there is
nothing else which can be done for them, and they must be lost! What a
thought! A professing Christian "nigh unto cursing!" A man, the efforts
for whose salvation are about to cease for ever, and who is to be given
over as incorrigible and hopeless! For such a man--in the church or out of
it--we should have compassion. We have some compassion for an ox which is
so stubborn that he will not work, and which is to be put to death; for a
horse which is so fractious that he cannot be broken, and which is to be
killed; for cattle which are so unruly that they cannot be restrained, and
which are only to be fattened for the slaughter; and even for a field which
is desolate and barren, and which is given up to be overrun with briers and
thorns; but how much more should we pity a man, all the efforts for whose
salvation fail, and who is soon to be abandoned to everlasting destruction!
{++} "accompany" "Belong to"
Verse 9. But, beloved, we are persuaded better things. We confidently
hope for better things respecting you. We trust that you are true
Christians; that you will produce the proper fruits of holiness;
that you will be saved.
Things that accompany salvation. Things that pertain to salvation.
The Greek phrase here means, "near to salvation," or things that are
conjoined with salvation. So Coverdale renders it, "and that salvation
is nigher." The form of expression seems to refer to what was said in
Hebrews 6:8. The land overrun with briers was nigh to cursing; the things
which Paul saw in them were nigh to salvation. From this verse it is
evident
(1.) that the apostle regarded them as sincere Christians, and
(2.) that he believed they would not fall away. Though he had stated
what must be the inevitable consequence if Christians should apostatize,
yet he says that, in their case, he had a firm conviction that it would
not occur. There is no inconsistency in this. We may be certain that if
a man should take arsenic it would kill him; and yet we may have the
fullest conviction that he will not do it. Is not this verse a clear
proof that Paul felt that it was certain that true Christians would never
fall away and be lost? If he supposed that they might, how could he be
persuaded that it would not happen to them? Why not to them as well as
to others? Learn hence, that while we assure men that if they should
fall away they would certainly perish, we may nevertheless address them
with the full persuasion that they will be saved.
{++} "accompany" "belong to"
Verse 10. For God is not unrighteous. God will do no wrong. He will
not forget or fail to reward the endeavours of his people to promote
his glory, and to do good. The meaning here is, that by their kindness
in ministering to the wants of the saints, they had given full evidence
of true piety. If God should forget that, it would be "unrighteous,"
(1.) because there was a propriety that it should be remembered; and
(2.) because it is expressly promised that it shall not fail of reward,
Matthew 10:42.
Your work. Particularly in ministering to the wants of the saints.
Labour of love. Deeds of benevolence when there was no hope of
recompense, or when love was the motive in doing it.
Which ye have shewed toward his name. Toward him--for the word name
is often used to denote the person himself. They had showed that they
loved God by their kindness to his people. Matthew 25:40: "Inasmuch as
ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done
it unto me."
In that ye have ministered to the saints. You have supplied their
wants. This may refer either to the fact that they contributed to
supply the wants of the poor members of the church, (comp.
See Barnes "Galatians 2:10", or it may refer to some special acts of
kindness which they had shown to suffering and persecuted Christians.
It is not possible now to know to what particular acts the apostle refers.
We may learn,
(1.) that to show kindness to Christians, because they are Christians,
is an important evidence of piety.
(2.) It will in no case be unrewarded. God is not "unjust ;" and he will
remember an act of kindness shown to his people--even though it be
nothing but giving a cup of cold water.
{c} "For God" Matthew 25:40
Verse 11. And we desire that every one of you. We wish that every
member of the church should exhibit the same endeavour to do
good, until they attain to the full assurance of hope. It is implied
here, that the full assurance of hope is to be obtained by a persevering
effort to lead a holy life.
The same diligence. The same strenuous endeavour, the same ardour
and zeal.
To the full assurance of hope. In order to obtain the full
assurance of hope. The word rendered "full assurance," means firm
persuasion, and refers to a state of mind where there is the fullest
conviction, or where there is no doubt. See Colossians 2:2; 1 Thessalonians 1:6
Hebrews 10:22 comp. Luke 1:1; Romans 4:21; 14:5; 2 Timothy 4:6,17, where the same
word, in different forms, occurs. Hope is a compound emotion,
See Barnes "Ephesians 2:12" made up of an earnest desire for an
object, and a corresponding expectation of obtaining it. The hope of
heaven is made up of an earnest wish to reach heaven, and a
corresponding expectation of it, or reason to believe that it will be
ours. The full assurance of that hope exists where there is the highest
desire of heaven, and such corresponding evidence of personal piety,
as to leave no doubt that it will be ours.
To the end. To the end of life. The apostle wished that they would
persevere in such acts of piety to the end of their course, as to have
their hope of heaven fully established, and to leave no doubt on the
mind that they were sincere Christians. Learn hence,
(1.) that full assurance of hope is to be obtained only by holy living.
(2.) It is only when that is persevered in that it can be obtained.
(3.) It is not by visions and raptures, by dreams and revelations,
that it can now be acquired, for God imparts no such direct revelation
now.
(4.) It is usually only as the result of a life of consistent piety that
such an assurance is to be obtained. No man can have it who does not
persevere in holy living; and they who do obtain it usually secure it
only near the end of a life of eminent devotedness to God. God could
impart it at once when the soul is converted; but such is the tendency
of man to indolence and sloth, that even good men would then relax their
efforts, and sit down contented, feeling that they had now the undoubted
prospect of heaven. As it is, it is held out as a prize to be won--as
that whose acquisition is to cheer us in our old age, when the warfare
is over, and when, amidst the infirmities of years, and in the near
prospect of death, we need special consolation. Comp. 2 Timothy 4:6,7.
{a} "full assurance" Hebrews 3:6,14
Verse 12. That ye be not slothful. Indolent; inactive. This was what
he was especially desirous of guarding them against. By diligent and
strenuous effort only could they secure themselves from the danger of
apostasy.
But followers. Imitators--that you may live as they lived.
Of them who through faith and patience. By faith, or confidence in
God, and by patience in suffering--referring to those who in times of
trial had remained faithful to God, and had been admitted to heaven. In
Hebrews 11 the apostle has given a long list of such persevering and
faithful friends of God. See Notes on that chapter.
The promise. The promise of heaven.
Verse 13. For when God made promise to Abraham. That he would
bless him, and multiply his seed as the stars of heaven,
Genesis 22:16,17. The object of introducing this example here is to
encourage those to whom the apostle was writing to persevere in the
Christian life. This he does by showing that God had given the
highest possible assurance of his purpose to bless his people by an
oath. Reference is made to Abraham in this argument probably, for two
reasons.
(1.) To show the nature of the evidence which Christians have that they
will be saved, or the ground of encouragement--being the same as that
made to Abraham, and depending, as in his case, on the promise of God;
and
(2.) because the example of Abraham was just in point. He had persevered.
He had relied firmly and solely on the promise of God. He did this
when appearances were much against the fulfilment of the promise, and he
thus showed the advantage of perseverance and fidelity in the cause of
God.
Because he could swear by no greater. There is no being greater than
God. In taking an oath among men it is always implied that the appeal is
to one of superior power, who is able to punish for its infraction. But
this could not occur in the case of God himself. There was no greater
being than himself, and the oath, therefore, was by his own existence.
He sware by himself. Genesis 22:16: "By myself have I sworn."
Comp. Isaiah 45:23. In an oath of this kind God pledges his
veracity; declares that the event shall be as certain as his existence;
and secures it by all the perfections of his nature. The usual form of
the oath is, "As I live, saith the Lord." See Numbers 14:21,28;
Ezekiel 33:11.
Verse 14. Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee. That is, I will
certainly bless thee. The phrase is a Hebrew mode of expression, to
denote emphasis or certainty--indicated by the repetition of a
word. Comp. Genesis 16:10; Exodus 8:10; Joel 3:14; Judges 5:30; 15:16.
Multiplying I will multiply thee. I will greatly increase thee--I
will grant thee an exceedingly numerous posterity.
{c} "Surely" Genesis 22:16,17
Verse 15. And so, after he had patiently endured. After he had waited
for a long time. He did not faint or grow weary, but he persevered
in a confident expectation of the fulfilment of what God had so
solemnly promised.
He obtained the promise. Evidently the promise referred to in the
oath--that he would have a numerous posterity. The apostle intimates
that he had waited for that a long time; that his faith did not waver,
and that in due season the object of his wishes was granted. To see the
force of this, we are to remember,
(1.) that when he was called by God from Haran, and when the promise of
a numerous posterity was made to him, he was seventy-five years old,
Genesis 12:1-6.
(2.) Twenty-four years elapsed after this, during which he was a sojourner
in a strange land, before the manner in which this promise would be
fulfilled was made known to him, Genesis 17:1-16.
(3.) It was only when he was a hundred years old, and when he had
persevered in the belief of the truth of the promise against all the
natural improbabilities of its accomplishment, that he received the
pledge of its fulfilment in the birth of his son Isaac, Genesis 21:1-5.
(4.) The birth of that son was a pledge that the other blessings
implied in the promise would be granted, and in that pledge Abraham may
be said to have "received the promise." He did not actually see the
numerous posterity of which he was to be the honoured ancestor, nor the
Messiah who was to descend from him, nor the happy influences which
would result to mankind from the fulfilment of the promise. But he saw
the certainty that all this would occur; he saw by faith the Messiah in
the distance, (John 8:56,) and the numerous blessings which would
result from his coming. It was a remarkable instance of faith, and one
well fitted to the purpose of the apostle. It would furnish ample
encouragement to the Christians to whom he wrote to persevere
their course, and to avoid the dangers of apostasy. If Abraham
persevered when appearances were so much against the fulfilment
of what had been promised, then Christians should persevere under
the clearer light, and with the more distinct promises of the gospel.
{+} "endured" "waited"
Verse 16. For men verily swear by the greater. That is, they appeal
to God. They never swear by one who is inferior to themselves.
The object of the apostle in this declaration is to show that, as far
as this could be done, it had been by God. He could not indeed
swear by one greater than himself, but he could make his promise
as certain as an oath taken by men was when they solemnly
appealed to Him. He could appeal to his own existence and veracity,
which was at any time the most solemn form of an oath, and thus put the
mind to rest in regard to the hope of heaven.
And an oath for confirmation. An oath taken to confirm or establish
anything.
Is to them an end of all strife. That is, when two parties are at
variance, or have a cause at issue, an oath binds them to adhere to the
terms of agreement concluded on, or contracting parties bind themselves
by a solemn oath to adhere to the conditions of an agreement, and this
puts an end to all strife. They rest satisfied when a solemn oath has
been taken, and they feel assured that the agreement will be complied
with. Or it may refer to cases where a man was accused of wrong before
a court, and where he took a solemn oath that the thing had not beer,
done, and his oath was admitted to be sufficient to put an end to the
controversy. The general meaning is clear, that, in disputes between
man and man, an appeal was made to an oath, and that was allowed to
settle it. The connexion here is, that, as far as the case would admit
of, the same thing was done by God. His oath by himself made his
promise firm.
{a} "oath" Exodus 22:11
Verse 17. Wherein God. On account of which, or since an oath had
this effect, God was willing to appeal to it, in order to assure his
people of salvation.
Willing more abundantly. In the most abundant manner, or to make
the case as sure as possible. It does not mean more abundantly than in
the case of Abraham, but that he was willing to give the most ample
assurance possible. Coverdale renders it, correctly, "very abundantly."
The heirs of promise. The heirs to whom the promise of life
pertained; that is, all who were interested in the promises made to
Abraham--thus embracing the heirs of salvation now.
The immutability of his counsel. His fixed purpose, he meant to
show, in the most solemn manner, that his purpose would not change. The
plans of God never change; and all the hope which we can have of heaven
is founded on the fact that his purpose is immutable. If he changed his
plans; if he was controlled by caprice; if he willed one thing to-day
and another thing tomorrow, who could confide in him or who would have
any hope of heaven? No one would know what to expect; and no one could
put confidence in him. The farmer ploughs and sows because he believes
that the laws of nature are settled and fixed; the mariner ventures
into unknown seas because the needle points in one direction; we plant
an apple-tree because we believe it will produce apples, a peach
because it will produce peaches, a pear because it will produce a pear.
But suppose there were no settled laws--that all was governed by
caprice--who would know what to plant? Who then would plant anything?
So in religion. If there were nothing fixed and settled, who would know
what to do? If God should change his plans by caprice, and save one man
by faith today and condemn another for the same faith tomorrow; or if
he should pardon a man today and withdraw the pardon tomorrow, what
security could we have of salvation? How grateful, therefore, should
we be, that God has an immutable counsel, and that this is confirmed
by a solemn oath! No one could honour a God that had not such an
immutability of purpose; and all the hope which man can have of heaven
is in the fact that He is unchanging.
Confirmed it by an oath. Marg. Interposed himself. Tindal and
Coverdale, "added an oath." The Greek is, "interpose with an oath"--
\~emesiteusen orkw\~. The word here used-- \~mesiteuw\~ --means, to mediate or
intercede for one; and then to intervene or interpose. The meaning here
is, that he interposed an oath between himself and the other party by
way of a confirmation or pledge.
{b} "heirs" Romans 8:17; Hebrews 11:9
{c} "immutability" Romans 11:29
{1} "confirmed it" "interposed himself"
Verse 18. That by two immutable things. What the "two immutable
things" here referred to are, has been made a matter of question
among commentators. Most expositors, as Doddridge, Whitby,
Rosenmuller, Koppe, and Calvin, suppose that the reference is to
the promise and the oath of God, each of which would be a firm
ground of the assurance of salvation, and in each of which it would
be impossible for God to lie. Prof. Stuart supposes that the reference
is to two oaths--the oath made to Abraham, and that by which
the Messiah was made High Priest according to the order of
Melchisedek, Psalms 110:4; Hebrews 5:6,10. He supposes that thus
the salvation of believers would be amply secured, by the promise
that Abraham should have a Son, the Messiah, in whom all the
families of the earth would be blessed, and in the oath that his
Son should be High Priest for ever. But to this interpretation it
may be objected that the apostle seems to refer to two things distinct
from each other in their nature, and not to two acts of the same kind.
There are two kinds of security referred to, whereas the security
furnished according to this interpretation would be the same--that
arising from an oath. However numerous the oaths might be, still it would
be security of the same kind; and if one of them were broken, no
certainty could be derived from the other. On the supposition, however,
that he refers to the promise and the oath, there would be two
kinds of assurance, of different kinds. On the supposition that the
promise was disregarded--if such a supposition may be made--still there
would be the security of the oath and thus the assurance of salvation was
two-fold. It seems to me, therefore, that the apostle refers to the
promise and to the oath of God, as constituting the two grounds of
security for the salvation of his people. Those things were both
unchangeable; and when his word and oath are once passed, what he
promises is secure.
In which it was impossible for God to Lie. That is, it would be
contrary to his nature; it is not for a moment to be supposed. Comp.
Titus 1:2: "God--that cannot lie." The impossibility is a moral
impossibility, and the use of the word here explains the Sense in which
the words impossible, cannot, etc., are often used in the Scriptures.
The meaning here is, that such was the love of God for truth, such his
holiness of character, that he could not speak falsely.
We might have a strong consolation. The strongest of which the mind
can conceive. The consolation of a Christian is not in his own
strength; his hope of heaven is not in any reliance on his own powers.
His comfort is, that God has promised eternal life to his people, and
that He cannot prove false to his word, Titus 1:2.
Who have fled for refuge. Referring to the fact that one charged with
murder fled to the city of refuge, or laid hold on an altar for security.
So we, guilty and deserving of death, have fled to the hopes of the
gospel in the Redeemer.
To lay hold upon. To seize and hold fast--as one does an altar when
he is pursued by the avenger of blood.
The hope set before us. The hope of eternal life offered in the
gospel. This is set before us as our refuge, and to this we flee when we
feel that we are in danger of death. On the nature of hope,
See Barnes "Ephesians 2:12".
{d} "lie" Titus 1:2
{e} "lay hold" 1 Timothy 6:12
Verse 19. Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul. Hope
accomplishes for the soul the same thing which an anchor does for a
ship. It makes it fast and secure. An anchor preserves a ship when the
waves beat and the wind blows; and as long as the anchor holds, so long
a ship is safe, and the mariner apprehends no danger. So with the soul
of the Christian. In the tempests and trials of life, his mind is calm
as long as his hope of heaven is firm. If that gives way, he feels that
all is lost. Among the heathen writers, hope is often compared with
an anchor. So Socrates said, "To ground hope on a false supposition, is
like trusting to a weak anchor." Again--"A ship ought not to trust to
one anchor, nor life to one hope."
Both sure and stedfast. Firm and secure. This refers to the
anchor. That is fixed in the sand, and the vessel is secure.
And which entereth into that within the veil. The allusion to the
anchor here is dropped, and the apostle speaks simply of hope. The
"veil" here refers to that which, in the temple, divided the holy from
the most holy place. See Barnes "Matthew 21:12". The place "within the
veil"--the most holy place--was regarded as God's peculiar abode, where
he dwelt by the visible symbol of his presence. That holy place
was emblematic of heaven; and the idea here is, that the hope of
the Christian enters into heaven itself; it takes hold on the throne
of God; it is made firm by being fastened there. It is not the
hope of future riches, honours, or pleasures in this life--for such
a hope would not keep the soul steady; it is the hope of immortal
blessedness and purity in the world beyond.
{f} "within the veil" Leviticus 16:15
Verse 20. Whither. To which most holy place--heaven.
The forerunner. The word here used occurs nowhere else in the New
Testament.
A forerunner \~prodromov\~--is one who goes before others to prepare the
way. The word is applied to light troops sent forward as scouts. Diod.
Sic. 17.17. Comp. "Wisdom of Solomon," (Apoc.,) xii. 8: "Thou didst send
wasps, forerunners of thy host, to destroy them by little and little." The
meaning here is, that Jesus went first into the heavenly sanctuary. He
led the way. He has gone there on our account, to prepare a place for us,
John 14:3. Having such a friend and advocate there, we should be
firm in the hope of eternal life; and, amidst the storms and tempests
around us, we should be calm.
Made an High Priest for ever. See Barnes "Hebrews 5:6";
See Barnes "Hebrews 5:10"/
To illustrate this fact was the object for which this discussion was
introduced, and which had been interrupted by the remarks occurring
in this chapter on the danger of apostasy. Having warned them of this
danger, and exhorted them to go on to make the highest attainments
possible in the divine life, the apostle resumes the discussion
respecting Melchizedek, and makes the remarks which he intended to make
respecting this remarkable man. See Hebrews 5:11.
{g} "the forerunner" Hebrews 4:14
{h} "Melchisedec" Hebrews 7:17
REMARKS
1. We should aim at perfection, in order that we may have evidence
of piety, Hebrews 6:1. No man can be a Christian who does not do this,
or who does not desire to be perfect, as God is perfect. No one can be a
Christian who is satisfied or contented to remain in sin; or who would
not prefer to be made at once as holy as an angel--as the Lord Jesus--
as God.
2. We should aim at perfection, in order to make great attainments,
Hebrews 6:1. No man makes any great advance in anything who does not
set his standard high. Men usually accomplish about what they expect to
accomplish. If a man expects to be a quack physician, he becomes such;
if he is satisfied to become a fourth rate lawyer, he becomes such; if
he is willing to be an indifferent mechanic, he advances no higher; if
he has no intention or expectation of being a first-rate farmer, he
will never become one. If he sincerely aims, however, to excel, he
usually accomplishes his object. And it is so in religion. If a man
does not intend to be an eminent Christian, he may be certain he never
will be. Religion is not produced by chance, any more than fine fruit
is, or than a good harvest is. One of the principal reasons why President
Edwards became so eminent a Christian was, that in early life he
adopted the following resolution, to which he appears always to
have adhered, that "on the supposition that there never was to be
but one individual in the world, at any one time, who was properly
a complete Christian, in all respects of a right stamp, having
Christianity always shining in its true lustre, and appearing excellent
and lovely, from whatever part, and under whatever character viewed:
Resolved, To act just as I would do, if I strove with all my might to
be that one, who should live in my time." Life, by S. E. Dwight,
D.D., p. 72.
3. We should aim to acquire as much knowledge of religious truth as
we possibly can, Hebrews 6:1,2. True piety is principle. It is not
fancy, or dreaming, or visions, or enthusiasm. It is based on
knowledge, and does not go beyond that. No man has any more religion
than he has knowledge of the way of salvation. He cannot force his
religion to overstep the bounds of his knowledge; for ignorance
contributes nothing to devotion. There may be knowledge where there is
no piety; but there can be no true religion where there is no
knowledge. If, therefore, a Christian wishes to make advances, he must
gain a knowledge of the truth. He must understand the great doctrines
of his religion. And in like manner, if we wish the next generation to
be intelligent and solid Christians, we must train them up to
understand the Bible.
4. The consequences of the judgment will be eternal, Hebrews 6:3. No
truth is more solemn than this. It is this which makes the prospect of
the judgment so awful. If the consequences of the sentence were to
continue for a few years, or ages, or centuries only, it would be of
much less importance. But who can abide the thought of "eternal
judgment" of an eternal sentence? Here the most fearful and
solemn sentence is for a short period. The sentence will soon expire; or
it is mitigated by the hope of a change. Pain here is brief. Disgrace,
and sorrow, and heaviness of heart, and all the woes that man can inflict,
soon come to an end. There is an outer limit of suffering, and no
severity of a sentence, no ingenuity of man, can prolong it far.
The man disgraced, and whose life is a burden, will soon die. On the
cheeks of the solitary prisoner, doomed to the dungeon for life, a
"mortal paleness" will soon settle down, and the comforts of an
approaching release by death may soothe the anguish of his sad heart.
The rack of torture cheats itself of its own purpose, and the
exhausted sufferer is released. "The excess [of grief] makes it
soon mortal." But in the world of future woe the sentence will never
expire; and death will never come to relieve the sufferer. I may ask,
then, of my reader, Are you prepared for the "eternal" sentence? Are
you ready to hear a doom pronounced which can never be changed? Would
you be willing to have God judge you just as you are, and pronounce
such a sentence as ought to be pronounced now, and have the assurance
that it would be eternal? You seek worldly honour--Would you be
willing to be doomed always to seek that? You aspire after
wealth--Would you be willing to be doomed to aspire after that
always? You seek pleasure, in the gay and giddy world--Would you be
willing to be doomed always to seek after that? You have no religion
--perhaps desire to have none--Yet would you be willing to be doomed to
be always without religion You are a stranger to the God that made
you--Would you be willing to be sentenced to be always a stranger to
God? You indulge in passion, pride, envy, sensuality--Would you be
willing to be sentenced always to the raging of these passions and lusts?
How few are they who would be willing to have an eternal sentence
passed on them, or to be doomed to pursue their present employments, or
to cherish their present opinions for ever! How few who would dare
to meet a sentence which should be in strict accordance with what was
just, and which was never to change!
5. With the righteous it should be matter of rejoicing that the
judgment is to be eternal, Hebrews 6:3. They can desire no change of
the sentence which will assign them to heaven; and it will be no
small part of the joy of the heavenly world, that the results of the
judgment will be everlasting. There will be no further trial; no
reversing of the sentence; no withdrawing of the crown of glory.
The righteous are the only ones who have not reason to dread a
"just eternal sentence;" and they will rejoice when the time shall
come which will fix their doom for ever.
6. We should dread apostasy from the true religion, Hebrews 6:4.
We should habitually feel that if we should deny our Lord, and
reject his religion, there would be no hope. The die would be cast;
and we must then perish for ever. By this solemn consideration
God intends to preserve his people; and it is a consideration which
has been so effectual, that there is not the least reason to suppose
that any one who has ever had any true religion has fallen away
and perished. Many have been almost Christians, and have then
turned back to perdition, (Matthew 7:22,23; Acts 26:28;) but there is no
reason to suppose that any who have been true Christians have thus
apostatized and been lost. Yet Christians are not kept without
watchfulness; they cannot be kept without the most sincere and constant
endeavours to preserve themselves from falling.
7. If the sin of apostasy is so great, then every approach to it is
dangerous, and then every sin should be avoided. He that habitually
indulges in sin cannot be a Christian; and every sin which a sincere
Christian commits should be measured by the guilt which would exist
should it become final, and should he wholly fall away. No man can
indulge in sin and be safe; and no professed Christian, who finds
himself disposed to indulge in sin, should cherish the expectation of
reaching heaven, Hebrews 6:4-6.
8. It is a matter of devout gratitude that God has kept all his true
people from apostasy, Hebrews 6:4-6. If it is true that no one who has
been regenerated has ever fallen away; if the means which God has used
have been effectual in a world so full of temptations, and when we have
hearts so prone to evil; and if it is the intention of God to keep all
to eternal salvation who are truly converted, then it should be to us a
subject of devout thankfulness and of encouragement. In view of this,
we should admire the wisdom of the plan which thus secures salvation; we
should look to him with the firm assurance that he will keep what we
have committed to him to the final day.
9. We should improve the privileges which we enjoy, so as to
receive a blessing from God, Hebrews 6:7,8. It is desirable that a farm
should be well cultivated, so as not to be overrun with briers and
thorns; desirable that it should produce an abundant harvest, and
not exhibit mere barrenness and desolation. Yet, alas, there are
many professing Christians who resemble such a field of thorns,
and such a scene of desolation. They produce no fruits of righteousness;
they do nothing to extend the kingdom of the Redeemer!
What can such expect but the "curses, of God ? What can the
end of such be but to be "burned?"
10. God will not fail to reward his faithful people, Hebrews 6:10. What
we have done in his service, and with a sincere desire to promote his
glory, unworthy of his notice as it may seem to us to be, he will not
fail to reward. It may be unobserved or forgotten by the world--nay, it
may pass out of our own recollection--but it will never fail from the
mind of God. Whether it be "two mites" contributed to his cause, or a
"cup of cold water given to a disciple," or a life consecrated to his
service, it will be alike remembered. What encouragement there is,
therefore, to labour it. the promotion of his glory, and to do all we
can for the advancement of his kingdom!
11. Let us follow those who have inherited the promises; Hebrews 6:12.
They are worthy examples. When from their lofty seats in heaven they look
back on the journey of life, though to them attended with many trials,
they never regret the "faith and patience" by which they were enabled to
persevere. We have most illustrious examples to imitate. They are
numerous as the drops of dew, and bright as the star of the morning. It
is an honour to tread in the footsteps of the holy men who have inherited
the promises; an honour to feel that we are walking in the same path,
and are reaching out the hand to the same crown.
It is the privilege of those who are truly the children of God to
enjoy strong consolation, Hebrews 6:13-18. Their hope is based on that
which cannot fail. God cannot lie. And when we have evidence that he
has promised us eternal life, we may open our hearts to the full
influence of Christian consolation. It may be asked, perhaps, how we
may have that evidence? Will God speak to us from heaven, and assure
us that we are his children? Will he reveal our names as written in
his book? Will he come to us in the night-watches, and address us by
name as his? I answer, No. None of these things are we to expect. But
if we have evidence that we have true repentance, and sincere faith
in the Redeemer; if we love holiness, and desire to lead a pure life;
if we delight in the Bible an& in the people of God, then we may regard
him as addressing us in the promises and oaths of his word, and
assuring us of salvation. These promises belong to us, and we may apply
them to ourselves. And if we have evidence that God promises us
eternal life, why should we doubt? We may feel that we are unworthy; our
consciences may reproach us for the errors and follies of our past
lives; but on the unchanging word and oath of God we may rely, and
there we may feel secure.
13. How invaluable is the Christian hope! Hebrews 6:19. To us it is
like the anchor to a vessel in a storm. We are sailing along the voyage
of life. We are exposed to breakers and tempests. Our bark is liable to
be tossed about, or to be shipwrecked. In the agitations and troubles
of life, how much we need some anchor of the soul; something that shall
make us calm and serene! Such an anchor is found in the hope of the
gospel. While that hope is firm we need fear nothing. All is then safe,
and we may look calmly on, assured that we shall ride out the storm,
and come at last safely into the haven of peace. Happy they who have
fled for refuge to the faith of the gospel; whose hope, like a steady
anchor, has entered into heaven, and binds the soul to the throne of
God; whose confidence in the Redeemer is unshaken in all the storms of
life, and who have the assurance that, when the tempest shall have
beaten upon them a little longer, they will be admitted to a haven of
rest, where storms and tempests are for ever unknown. With such a
hope we may well bear the trials of this life for the few days
appointed to us on earth--for what are the longest trials here
compared with that eternal rest which remains for all who love God in a
brighter world?
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