Friday April11,2008 at P'Thom house

Petch

Here is the topic we will discuss at P'Thom house :

Hebrews 5:11-6:3
[11] There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don't seem to listen. [12] You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. [13] For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn't know how to do what is right. [14] Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. [1] So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don't need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. [2] You don't need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. [3] And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.

NLT

REFLECT
What do you think was the problem addressed here?

Before returning to the high priesthood of Christ in more detail, the writer has a rebuke and another warning.

We do not know how long the readers of Hebrews had been Christians, but the writer seems upset, even astonished, that they have not advanced further in the faith. He expects them to have advanced in at least three areas: in their understanding of what he considers essential doctrine (6:1,2); in gifting - by now they ought to be teachers (5:12); and in maturity, defined here as discernment in making moral judgments (5:13).

To grow in any or all three of these areas, it is vital to engage regularly with Scripture. The phrase "teaching about righteousness" (5:13) takes us back to what was said about God's Word in 4:12. Before you close your Bible, take an honest look at the progress you are making in your Christian life. Consider in turn each area raised by these verses: understanding, gifting and spiritual maturity. And if you have not been growing for a while in one or more areas, consider what it might be necessary to do.

APPLY
Pray and ask God to show you any areas where you may need to start or re-start your spiritual growth process.