Hebrews 5:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 5:14
14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
Chapter Context
Hebrews 5 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of hope, sacrifice, redemption. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-14: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 5:14
14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
Analysis
Solid food is for the 'mature' (Greek 'teleiōn' - complete/mature) who through practice have trained their 'senses' (Greek 'aisthētēria' - faculties) to discern good and evil. This emphasizes experiential learning - doctrine must be practiced to be truly learned. Reformed theology values both orthodoxy (right belief) and orthopraxy (right practice). The ability to discern requires exercising judgment repeatedly until it becomes habitual.
Historical Context
Jewish tradition emphasized training in discernment, especially regarding clean/unclean. The author applies this training principle to spiritual/moral discernment in the Christian life.
Reflection
- How have you 'trained' your spiritual senses to discern good and evil?
- What role does practice play in moving from knowing truth intellectually to applying it wisely?
Cross-References
- Good: 1 Kings 3:9, 1 Thessalonians 5:21
- Evil: Genesis 3:5, Isaiah 7:15
- Parallel theme: Psalms 119:103, Romans 14:1, 1 Corinthians 2:6, Ephesians 1:18, 4:13, Philippians 3:15