Hebrews 6:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 6:1
1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Chapter Context
Hebrews 6 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, righteousness, faith. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 6:1
1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Analysis
The call to 'go on to maturity' (Greek 'phero epi tēn teleiotēta') doesn't mean abandoning basics but building on them. The foundation includes 'repentance from dead works' (works that don't produce life) and 'faith toward God' - the two fundamental responses to the gospel. Reformed theology sees these as inseparable: true repentance flows from faith, and true faith produces repentance. These aren't earning merit but responding to grace.
Historical Context
These basics likely formed the core of early Christian catechesis. The author assumes readers have been taught these fundamentals and should now advance to deeper understanding of Christ's priesthood and the New Covenant.
Reflection
- How do repentance and faith continue throughout the Christian life, not just at conversion?
- What 'dead works' might you still rely on instead of resting in Christ's finished work?
Word Studies
- Repent: μετανοέω (Metanoeo) G3341 - To change one's mind, repent
Cross-References
- References Christ: Hebrews 9:14, Ephesians 4:12
- References God: 2 Corinthians 7:1
- Faith: Matthew 21:32, John 5:24, 12:44
- Repentance: Matthew 3:2, Acts 26:20
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 7:11, 12:13