What does Hebrews 6:9 mean?

But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. Hebrews 6:9

Explanation

Hebrews 6:9 is a verse that is directed to the recipients of the letter who had been criticized in the previous verses due to their spiritual immaturity and negligence. In essence, after issuing a stern warning about the peril of falling away from the faith, the author of Hebrews expresses a more hopeful sentiment for the believers he is addressing. In this verse, the term “beloved” signals a deep affection for and personal connection with the audience, indicating that what follows is said out of concern rather than condemnation.

“We are persuaded better things of you,” suggests that the author holds a positive and optimistic view about the recipients’ faith and future, in contrast to the severe warning that preceded this statement. The “things that accompany salvation” refer to the characteristics, behaviors, and virtues associated with being saved — such as faith, hope, love, and good works. The phrase “though we thus speak” acknowledges the strong admonishment that has been given but emphasizes that the author’s intention is not to discourage but to exhort the believers to progress and persevere in their faith.

Historical Context

Hebrews is a text written to a group of early Christians who were likely from a Jewish background, during a time when they faced social ostracism and persecution for their beliefs. Some scholars place the writing of Hebrews before 70 A.D., likely when the Temple was still standing, while others postulate a time after its destruction. The exact audience and their location are not definitively known, but it is evident that they were familiar with Jewish traditions and the Old Testament scriptures.

In the broader context of Hebrews 6, the author deals with concepts of maturity in faith and the stark implications if one were to fall away. The text serves partly as a call to move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and advance towards maturity, and partly to reassure that faithfulness will be accompanied with God’s promises.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Hebrews 6:9 is rich in significance. The verse illuminates on perseverance in salvation, suggesting that while apostasy is a severe risk, the author of Hebrews has confidence in the true conversion of the recipients. It hints at the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints – the belief that those who are truly saved will continue in their faith and ultimately be preserved until the end. The Calvinist tradition supports this viewpoint, interpreting the text as indicating a difference between those who merely profess faith superficially and those who possess it genuinely.

In Arminian theology, however, the verse could be interpreted as an exhortation to maintain one’s faith through cooperation with divine grace. The verse suggests human responsibility in continuing in the things which are associated with salvation.

Practical Applications

Practically, Hebrews 6:9 serves as an encouragement for believers to not become disheartened or disillusioned by harsh warnings or by witnessing others fall away. It underscores the importance of perseverance, urging Christians to demonstrate the fruits that naturally stem from a genuine faith.

For the everyday Christian, this verse affirms that growth and maturity in faith are expected outcomes of salvation. It encourages self-examination of one’s life for evidence of “things that accompany salvation” and invites believers to live out their faith through love and good deeds.

Cross-References

• Philippians 1:6: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”
• 2 Peter 1:5-8: “…giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;…”
• 1 Thessalonians 1:3: “Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word “persuaded” (πεπείσμεθα, pepeismetha) is in the perfect tense, which implies a settled persuasion or confidence. It signifies that the author’s belief in the hearers’ better outcomes is both strong and enduring.

“Things” (πράγματα, pragmata) here refers to matters or things of substance, likely indicating qualities and behaviors of spiritual life rather than worldly or trivial matters.

“Accompany” (ἐχόμενα, echomena) suggests things that are tied to or associated with something else. In this context, it is referring to the evidences or outcomes that typically “accompany” the salvation experience.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of adversity is one that surfaces in other religious traditions as well. In Judaism, the idea of faithfulness to God’s covenant despite hardship is central. In many ancient myths, heroes often face trials in which their virtues are tested, indicating a widespread cultural appreciation for steadfastness and growth through trials.

Scientific Perspectives

While science typically does not comment on theological concepts like salvation, the psychological aspects of belief perseverance might find relevance here. Studies in the psychological sciences have found that people tend to adhere more to their beliefs when they face opposition or are challenged, which could parallel the perseverance expected in the Christian faith.

Commentaries

Commentators view Hebrews 6:9 with varying interpretations. Some, such as John Calvin, see in it an assurance of salvation for the elect and a demonstration of the permanent indwelling of faith. Others, like Adam Clarke, highlight the role of human agency and the necessity of remaining steadfast in faith and good works.

Matthew Henry comments that the verse provides hope after reproof, reassuring the readers of the author’s loving confidence in them and encouraging them to diligence. Both traditional and modern commentators often regard this verse as a pivot from warning to encouragement within the epistle.