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Hebrews 6: 1-6 Analysis

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It’s a difficult task to look deeply at a book in the Bible, trusting it is the Word of God as I do, but seeing something that seems to be contrary to the nature of God you thought you knew so well. In Hebrews 6:1-8 a dangerous idea seems to be presented: that there are some people who begin as Christians, but leave the faith, and that there is no hope they can receive salvation once again. Contrary to an idea of a loving God who gives us freedom of choice, welcoming the prodigal back into his arms, the author of Hebrews describes a scenario where once a decision to reject God is made, there is no changing from that position. However, the uncomfortable proclamation in 6:4-6 is often interpreted without understanding the surrounding text, the culture of the time, and the rhetorical aim of the author. With these in mind, the text takes on a slightly different look. The author of Hebrews strongly desired …show more content…

First and foremost, the author is never mentioned by name. While scholars have speculated as to who might have penned this epistle, no candidate can, with certainty, can be claimed the author. Even more paramount to understanding the so-called letter to Hebrews is understanding the audience. The repeated appeals to Jewish scriptures could suggest Hebrews is written to Jewish Christians, however Craig R. Koester points out that Old Testament material is utilized in Paul’s letters to Gentile congregations. Also, a epistle to an Jewish audience would often include a discussion of important Jewish issues like circumcision and food laws in relation to the coveant under Christ, but these are absent. Additionally, the fact that certain attributes in the text, like “enlightenment” (Heb. 6:4), are traditionally references to conversion from paganism, suggest an audience including non-Jews. Due to the mixed appeals, I propose the audience is mixed Jewish and Gentile

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