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. Hebrews 6:10 NIV
When Kirk and Jordan were younger, within reason, we allowed them to try different activities. Whatever the activity, the rule was you were committed until the activity concluded or the season ended. Once they had signed up for something, they were there to do their best and support their teammates. There may have been times when they would have liked to quit, but they knew that wasn’t an option.
In today’s verse, the author, traditionally attributed to Paul and written between 60 and 70 AD, encourages the persecuted Christians to remain steadfast to their faith. During this time, Nero was the emperor of Rome, and followers of The Way faced extreme hostility. Any problem that existed in Rome was blamed on the Christians. When Nero burned the city to rebuild, he blamed the fire on the Christians.
Chapter 6 begins, “Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity.” They were to remain steadfast but not stagnant. The only way for them to face the constant threats of imperial Rome was to grow in their faith, relying on God throughout the persecution, even (especially) when that might lead to their death.
In verses 4-8, the author warns against those who once accepted the Holy Spirit have turned away. People were willing to deny Christ, prioritizing their mortal bodies over their eternal souls. Of course, there was no guarantee that the mortal body would be spared in this denial.
The author returns with encouragement, “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” (v. 9). In other words, “I know you who have once experience salvation.” God is just! You may have slipped up; you may have even been one who, in fear, denied Christ, but God has not forgotten you. He will never forget you; repent, and you will be forgiven. If your faith has stagnated, pray for an increase in faith, which will be granted.
For those who have remained steadfast, good job, keep up the work. Pray for those who are weak, and show compassion and love. Help them to face the tough days of persecution and let them know they are not alone.
We may not face the same kind of persecution as the first-century church. But we all face trials and temptations. We’ve likely not always been the steadfast people we should be, and our faith has waned. Remember that while we might not be steadfast, God is. He is gracious and just. We are also to show love to each other, holding each other up in encouragement and prayer.
Heavenly Father, you are a good and righteous God whose faithfulness continues from
one generation to the next. Thank you for our great salvation. Thank you for the opportunity to work to your praise and love others with the love you first gave us. May we live each day of our lives as unto the Lord, and we ask that you would provide us with opportunities to minister, in love, to the Body of Christ. Thank you that nothing we do ever goes unnoticed by you. May our lives be a daily witness and living sacrifice to your grace and goodness. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Comments