A Warning Against Falling Away

In many ways the Christian life—progressing in sanctification and relationship with God—has a comingled quality to that of the recovery life—one could say sanctification is synonymous with recovery. In the Hebrews passage before us this month (Heb. 5:11-6:12) the author offers a “warning against falling away” (CSB). After explaining the difference between the “new” Christian and the “mature” [the author uses a metaphor; the new Christian needs “milk” while the mature needs “solid food” (5:11-14)], the passage proceeds to a strong warning, 

Hebrews 6:4–6 (CSB)  

4 For it is impossible to renew to repentance those who were once enlightened, who tasted the heavenly gift, who shared in the Holy Spirit, 5 who tasted God’s good word and the powers of the coming age, 6 and who have fallen away. This is because, to their own harm, they are recrucifying the Son of God and holding him up to contempt.  

This is strong…continuing on the author compliments this warning with the following, 

Hebrews 6:9–10 (CSB)  

9 Even though we are speaking this way, dearly loved friends, in your case we are confident of things that are better and that pertain to salvation. 10 For God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you demonstrated for his name by serving the saints—and by continuing to serve them.  

The work and the love referred to in v. 10 relates to the service provided to others that is inspired by a relationship with God—the Triune God who supplies your sobriety—and the reverence you have for relapse (here relapse is synonymous with falling away). Reading one verse further the author notes the “demonstration” of “diligence” to serve that is generated by faith (Heb. 6:11).  

Notice the strong warning in vs. 4-6 is followed by the statement, “God is not unjust,” and “he will not forget your work,” indicating the Christian saved cannot lose salvation and that God is serious about following his direction. Remember, the message of single passages cannot contradict the truth in all of Scripture relating to God’s character. While God is serious about your sanctification, mental health, recovery, etc., he is also serious about the Christian placing his purity and his deeds in first position. Falling back on works apart from him (moralism) to find salvation and recovery is problematic—as indicated by the strong language in v. 6 (they are recrucifying the Son of God and holding him to contempt). 

We have inspired teachers, and teaching, on Principle 4 this month in our Large Group and the kitchen is cooking great food for dinner. Come see us any Monday night in May and beyond!