What does Hebrews 5:13 mean?

For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. Hebrews 5:13

Explanation

Hebrews 5:13 metaphorically discusses spiritual maturity using the imagery of milk and solid food. In this verse, the writer of Hebrews describes “everyone that useth milk” as someone who is “unskilful in the word of righteousness,” equating milk consumption with a lack of experience or proficiency in understanding deeper spiritual truths. The point here is that just as infants consume milk because they are not yet able to digest solid food, spiritually immature individuals are not yet ready to comprehend and apply the more complex doctrines of the faith. They are called “babes,” which signifies a stage of Christian development that is elementary and foundational, as opposed to mature and developed.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a primarily Jewish Christian audience during a time when they faced persecution and other challenges to their faith. The author of Hebrews seeks to encourage them to persevere in their faith and mature in their understanding. This verse is situated within a passage that emphasizes the need for advancement from basic teachings about Christ to a deeper, more comprehensive theological understanding. Thus, it reflects a pastoral concern that the recipients of the letter grow in faith and not stagnate.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse highlights the concept of spiritual maturity. Some theologians interpret this as an incentive for believers to progress beyond the elementary teachings of Christianity, such as repentance and faith, and move toward a fuller comprehension of God’s righteousness. Others suggest that it also implicitly critiques those who, having been Christians for some time, have still not developed their understanding and ability to discern good from evil.

Practical Applications

Practically, Hebrews 5:13 can encourage contemporary Christians to continually grow in their faith and understanding. It suggests that believers should not be content with a surface-level grasp of their beliefs but rather should study scripture deeply, engage with challenging theological concepts, and apply their faith to complex life situations. This growth process is seen as essential to living out a robust Christian life.

Cross-References

• 1 Peter 2:2 – “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:”
• 1 Corinthians 3:2 – “I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.”
• Ephesians 4:14-15 – “That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine… But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:”

Language Study

The key terms in the original Greek language of this verse are:

• “milk” (γάλα, gala) – often symbolizes basic teachings or what is easy to understand.
• “unskilful” (ἄπειρος, apeiros) – means inexperienced or not tried.
• “word of righteousness” (λόγον δικαιοσύνης, logon dikaiosynes) – indicates the teachings about proper conduct according to God’s standards.

These terms contribute to the metaphorical depiction of spiritual childhood versus adulthood.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Various religious systems reflect on the idea of spiritual growth, from the novice stages to deeper wisdom. Buddhism, for example, describes stages of awakening that reflect a progression in understanding. In Ancient Greek philosophy, philosophers like Plato depicted a journey of enlightenment from the shadows of a cave to the bright light of the sun. These comparisons underscore that many traditions recognize the importance of advancing in knowledge and wisdom.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, the process of learning and cognitive development involves advancing from basic to complex thought patterns. Neurological research into brain development may parallel the transition from “milk” (simple concepts) to “meat” (complex understanding), as this verse metaphorically encourages in the spiritual sense.

Commentaries

Bible scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of Hebrews 5:13. Matthew Henry’s Commentary regards it as an exhortation against stagnation in Christian progress. Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible sees it as a call to self-examination concerning one’s spiritual maturity. The Pulpit Commentary emphasizes the importance of Christians becoming teachers themselves, suggesting that a failure to mature is a failure to contribute to the faith community’s growth.