Hebrews 6:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 6:12
12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Chapter Context
Hebrews 6 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, faith, hope. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 6:12
12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Analysis
'Be not slothful' repeats the warning against spiritual laziness. Instead, 'be followers of them' (Greek 'mimetai'—imitators) of faithful examples. The dual virtues 'faith and patience' characterize those who inherit promises—believing God's word and waiting for His timing. The examples of faithful believers (detailed in chapter 11) demonstrate that promises often come through long perseverance.
Historical Context
The OT saints listed in chapter 11 modeled faith that endured despite not receiving promised fulfillment in their lifetimes. Their patient faith encourages believers facing delayed fulfillment of God's promises.
Reflection
- Who are faithful examples you can imitate in combining faith with patience?
- What promises of God are you waiting to see fulfilled, and how can you wait faithfully?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Covenant: Hebrews 10:36, 1 John 2:25
- Faith: Hebrews 13:7
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 1:14, 5:11, 12:1, Proverbs 18:9, Jeremiah 6:16, Romans 12:11