Hebrews 6:1-8 Commentary Research

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………………….1

VERSES 1 AND 2…………………………………………………………………………….1

VERSE 3 ……………………………………………………………………………………...3

VERSES 4 THRU 6 …………………………………………………………………………..3

VERSES 7 AND 8 ……………………………………………………………………………7

CONCLUSION ………………………………………………………………………………8

BIBLIOGRAPHY ……………………………………………………………………………9

Introduction

Within the Book of Hebrews, many passages have led to controversies. One passage in particular is that of Hebrews 6:1-8. George H. Guthrie stated that “it is no exaggeration to designate [this passage] as one of the most controversial in the book of Hebrews- indeed, one of the most disputed in the entire New Testament.” Within Hebrews 6:1-8, different theological ideas are represented, which can present a challenger to the reader. Three different commentaries will be consulted to see how they interpret this controversial passage. The commentaries surveyed are authored by: George H. Guthrie, John MacArthur, and F.F. Bruce.

Verses 1 and 2

“Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, and the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judge.”

In order to understand the opening verses of Hebrews 6, one must look at the preceding chapter. In Hebrews 5:12-14, the author has explained to his audience that they are not mature enough to handle certain aspects of the Scriptures. The audience is “unskilled in the word of righteousness; such a person is an infant.” However, the author is does not reiterate the teachings so that the audience may better grasp them. With the use of the conjunction “therefore,” Bruce believes that “their minds need to be stretched, and this will stretch them as nothing else can.” Instead, the author presses to audience to “leave the elementary teachings… and go on to maturity.” John...