FAITH AND PATIENCE

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

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Read Hebrews 5 - 6

     For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.    Hebrews 5:12 NKJV

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     In the midst of persecution both physical and spiritual, these Hebrew believers needed encouragement. Some doubted their salvation, perhaps because of the areas where they felt so weak. This letter is to assure them that they have a high priest in Jesus Christ who already paid the price for their sins.
     Those who continue to go back to the beginning to renew their salvation “crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.” Hebrews 6:6 NKJV

     Instead, they (and we) must press on in patience toward spiritual maturity. “But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner.”(6:9) We should not be discouraged because “God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” (6:10)

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     Lord, I pray that you will help me and the members of my family and church as we grow toward maturity in the things that matter. Help our spirit of apathy when things become difficult and keep us true to Your Word. Thank you for the gift of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

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     And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.    Hebrews 6:11-12