What does Hebrews 5:14 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 5:14 speaks about spiritual maturity.

The verse contrasts 'milk' (basic teachings of Christianity suitable for new believers) with 'strong meat' (deeper, more complex teachings), which is said to be for those who are 'of full age.' This refers to mature Christians who, through practice, have honed their ability to discern good from evil.

The "meat" suggests that certain teachings and truths require a seasoned understanding, not just intellectual knowledge but experiential, exercised discernment much like a muscle that strengthens over time with use.

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and were tempted to revert to Judaism.

The author of Hebrews emphasizes the supremacy of Christ over the old Jewish system, encouraging these believers to persevere in their new faith.

The time was likely around 64-70 A.D., a period when there was significant tension between Jewish and Christian communities.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Hebrews 5:14 touches upon the concept of sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ through spiritual growth.

Different denominations interpret sanctification differently, but in general, this verse is seen as pointing to the necessity of growth and maturity in a believer's life.

Some see this maturity in terms of moral and ethical discernment, while others see a deeper understanding of theology and doctrine.

Practical Applications

In modern life, this verse encourages believers to not remain stagnant but to continually seek growth in their faith.

It suggests that with time and practice, Christians should aim to understand their faith deeply and to develop good judgment.

Essentially, this means not just knowing what is right but also becoming skilled in choosing it over wrong in everyday situations.

In practice, this could mean studying the Bible consistently, engaging in community and accountability, serving others, and making prayerful decisions.

Cross-References

• 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 4:13-14 - "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ."
• 1 Peter 2:2 - "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby."

Language Study

The key words in this verse are "strong meat" (στερεὰ τροφή - sterea trophē) and "full age" (τελείων - teleiōn).

The Greek term "sterea" implies solid or robust food in contrast to liquid milk meant for infants, indicating challenging or advanced doctrine.

"Teleiōn" signifies mature, complete, or perfect; it is a state of development signifying the end goal of a process.

The term "exercised" (γεγυμνασμένα - gegymnasmena) suggests rigorous training, like that of an athlete, applied here to moral and spiritual discernment.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various religions, there is a common theme where beginners are taught simple, fundamental principles before they attempt to understand and practice more profound spiritual truths.

For example, in Buddhism, novice monks are first taught basic meditation and ethical conduct before delving into advanced philosophical concepts.

Similarly, in Hebrews 5:14, the idea is to start with basic teachings and progress to more advanced spiritual understanding.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse speaks to the psychological and neurological concept of skill development through repeated practice, akin to the formation of habits.

Neuroscience explains that constant practice strengthens neural pathways, leading to better performance and decision-making.

In this scientific vein, the "exercise" of senses to discern could be interpreted as the refining of neural pathways for moral and ethical decision making.

Commentaries

Commentary on Hebrews 5:14 varies among biblical scholars.

Some, like Matthew Henry, outline the importance of progressing in spiritual understanding as a way to staunch in the faith against false teachings and adversity.

Albert Barnes emphasizes the need for teaching that challenges believers, equipping them to face complex theological issues.

John Calvin speaks to the effort required in the Christian life to make progress from the elementary principles to deeper wisdom.

All these commentaries point to the idea that spiritual maturity comes from an earnest and active engagement with the faith over time.