July 20, 2021 — A Study on the Book of Hebrews

 Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation.God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Hebrews 6:9-12

“It seems that the author felt that, after some heavy and solemn warnings, a word of encouragement was in order. He states that he is confident that the people he is addressing are ready for better things that come with salvation (v. 9). The words are like those of a pastor who, after warning his congregation of a dangerous course of action, might say: “But I am sure you people would never do that!” The writer insisted that he had every expectation that the readers would persevere to the end and acquire these blessings.”  (Family Times, “The Encouragement to Go On”)

The genuine Christ-like life is one of “showing your work” and producing a “yield” – but not giving “in” but giving “of”. Too many people feel they must yield their faith, put their faith away while they are at work, at the grocery store, even at their family events. Rather, as the author tells us, we are always to find ways that our faith “yields” evidences – bringing forth a crop, showing signs that your life is one that does not conform to culture – but conforms to faith in Christ.

We can do that in multiple ways – by showing our work, sharing our gifts, getting involved in ministries, feeding people who are hungry for Christ and hungry for food. The beauty of sharing our gifts: it doesn’t matter if we see a yield of a hundredfold, sixty-fold, or even twenty-fold. What matters is that we are giving of our time, talents and treasures, in response to G-d’s love.

Pastor Dave