Hebrews Winter 2012 Example Weekly Inductive Paper Willhemina Getena Due: Feb 29, 2012 The writer

of Hebrews (in chapter 6) calls the audience to maturity in keeping with repentance and the faith in our high priest, Jesus. The therefore of Hebrews 6:1 is a call to maturity that should not require a re-laying of foundational Biblical doctrines. The writer of Hebrews assumes these six principles to be the building blocks of a mature Christian faith, the spiritual milk referred to Heb. 5:13. This maturity is not merely an increase in the substance of doctrinal knowledge but the experiential knowledge of God (Is. 33:6). This maturity is a stability of faith and character that is not easily swayed by every wind of doctrine. The immediate transition from the discourse on immaturity (5:12-14) and foundational Kingdom principles (6:1-3) into 6:4-9 is intentional and purposeful. Here in chapter 6, the writer continues to warn his audience of falling away (6:6) from Christ and faith in Him. This warning is building upon the other previous warnings given in 2:1-4, 3:12-19, 4:11, and 5:12-14. Hebrews 6:4 speaks of those who have tasted of the heavenly gift, been partakers of Gods word, His Holy Spirit, and His power. These are those individuals who have neglected to hear His voice and who have over and over hardened their hearts (4:7). We know this because of the example given of the Israelites in the wilderness who settled in unbelief and resistance to Gods word (4:2, 6). The individuals who were unrepentant are likened to thorns and briers (6:8), similar to the thorny ground in the parable of the sower (Mark 4:13-20). Those who receive the word of God (who are pierced (4:12) by it, exposed by it (4:13), and come boldly (4:16) to the high priest for help in a time of need) are likened to the fruitful crops who receive the rain and bear good things (herbs that are useful). The word useful is used to describe this fruit and its value to the one who was disciplined and took time to cultivate good fruit. This cultivation refers back to Heb. 5:14, to those who have

exercised (used and trained) their spiritual senses. All of these disciplines and (v.11-12) spiritual exercised are seen as a labor of love (6:10) worthy of reward (6:9-10). Amidst the warnings and talk of implied reward, the writer of Hebrews brings the audience back to the great high priest. Thus far, it has been evident that this high priest is the one who sympathizes with believers in weakness (4:15), has compassion on their ignorant stumblings and waywardness, and who is the author of their eternal salvation (5:9). This same high priest is now shown to be an oath or promise (v.17-18) from God. This confirms the permanence of His will and plan. He stands as an anchor of hope for believers (v.19) giving them both consolation (v.18) and confidence (v.20) that they indeed have available mercy and grace in time of need (4:15).