How can we ensure we don't "fall away" as warned in Hebrews 6:4? The Warning in Hebrews 6:4 “Hebrews 6:4 – ‘For it is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit,’”. • The writer exposes the tragic possibility that some who experience genuine spiritual privileges might still “fall away” (v. 6). • Scripture never contradicts itself; genuine salvation endures (John 10:28–29), yet the Spirit uses sober warnings to stir holy vigilance (1 Corinthians 10:12). Why the Exhortation Is Urgent • Hebrews 3:12–14 calls believers to “hold firmly till the end.” • Jesus teaches the necessity of abiding: “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). • 2 Peter 1:10 urges, “Be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure.” Anchor Your Heart in Christ • Daily communion: set unhurried time to read, meditate, and pray through Scripture (Psalm 119:11; Colossians 3:16). • Ongoing faith: consciously entrust today’s hopes, fears, and decisions to the Savior (Galatians 2:20). • Dependent obedience: act on what you read, since “faith without deeds is dead” (James 2:17). Keep a Tender Conscience • Swift confession: respond to conviction immediately (1 John 1:9). • Regular self-examination: invite the Spirit to search your motives (Psalm 139:23–24). • Guard against gradual drift: little compromises harden hearts (Hebrews 3:13). Stay in Christian Community • Consistent gathering: “not forsaking our own assembly” (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Mutual exhortation: receive and give loving correction (Proverbs 27:17). • Shared ministry: serving others roots you in humility and dependence (1 Peter 4:10). Grow in Discernment and Doctrine • Saturate your mind with sound teaching (2 Timothy 2:15). • Test every idea by Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Be alert to seductive lies; error often precedes apostasy (2 Peter 2:1). Rely on God’s Preserving Power • Confidence: “He who began a good work in you will perfect it” (Philippians 1:6). • Security: God “is able to keep you from stumbling” (Jude 24). • Prayerful dependence: ask the Spirit daily for endurance (Ephesians 6:18). Summary Checklist for Perseverance • Abide in Christ through Word and prayer. • Respond quickly to conviction. • Gather and serve with believers. • Pursue sound doctrine and discernment. • Rest in God’s promise to keep you. |
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