Hebrews 5:13
For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
Original Language Analysis
γάρ
For
G1063
γάρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μετέχων
that useth
G3348
μετέχων
that useth
Strong's:
G3348
Word #:
4 of 11
to share or participate; by implication, belong to, eat (or drink)
λόγου
in the word
G3056
λόγου
in the word
Strong's:
G3056
Word #:
7 of 11
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
δικαιοσύνης
of righteousness
G1343
δικαιοσύνης
of righteousness
Strong's:
G1343
Word #:
8 of 11
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
νήπιος
a babe
G3516
νήπιος
a babe
Strong's:
G3516
Word #:
9 of 11
not speaking, i.e., an infant (minor); figuratively, a simple-minded person, an immature christian
Cross References
1 Corinthians 14:20Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.1 Peter 2:2As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:Isaiah 28:9Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.2 Timothy 3:16All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:Ephesians 4:14That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;1 Corinthians 3:1And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.Psalms 119:123Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness.1 Corinthians 13:11When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.2 Corinthians 3:9For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.Mark 10:15Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
Historical Context
Infant Christians were particularly vulnerable in a hostile culture. The author wants them to mature quickly because persecution requires strong faith anchored in deep theological understanding.
Questions for Reflection
- What areas of biblical truth remain 'milk-level' in your understanding that should advance to 'solid food'?
- How does spiritual immaturity leave you vulnerable to false teaching or cultural pressure?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Those on milk are 'unskilled in the word of righteousness' (Greek 'apeiros' - inexperienced) and are 'infants' (Greek 'nēpios'). This isn't about salvation status but maturity level. The 'word of righteousness' likely refers to gospel truth about justification and righteous living. Reformed theology distinguishes between positional righteousness (imputed) and progressive righteousness (sanctification), both learned through Scripture.