How does Hebrews 6:3 connect with Philippians 2:13 on God's enabling power? Setting the Stage: Two Passages, One Theme - Hebrews 6:3: “And this we will do if God permits.” - Philippians 2:13: “For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure.” Both verses highlight one core reality: every step of spiritual progress depends on God’s enabling power—His permission, His working, His pleasure. Examining Hebrews 6:3 - Context: The writer urges believers to press on from elementary teachings to maturity (Hebrews 6:1-2). - Key phrase: “if God permits.” • Affirms our dependence—spiritual growth moves forward only by God’s allowance. • Guards against self-reliance—maturity isn’t a DIY project; it’s granted by divine favor. - Implication: Even the decision to pursue deeper truth requires God’s green light. Exploring Philippians 2:13 - Context: After commanding believers to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12), Paul explains why the command is possible. - Key phrase: “God…works in you to will and to act.” • “To will”—He shapes our desires. • “To act”—He supplies the power for obedience. • “Good pleasure”—our growth delights Him; He’s personally invested in it. Tracing the Connection: God’s Permissive and Active Work - Hebrews 6:3 shows God must permit growth. - Philippians 2:13 shows God actively energizes that growth. Together they paint a complete picture: 1. God opens the door (permission). 2. God supplies the desire and strength to walk through it (power). Supporting Witnesses from the Rest of Scripture - John 15:5: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” — Jesus underscores total dependence. - 1 Corinthians 15:10: “By the grace of God I am what I am… yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” — Grace both permits and empowers. - 2 Thessalonians 1:11: “We pray… that our God will count you worthy of His calling, and by His power fulfill every desire for goodness and work of faith.” — Desire and deeds fulfilled by divine power. Living It Out Today - Acknowledge the Source: Begin each pursuit of growth by recognizing it happens only “if God permits.” - Rely on the Strength: When you sense holy desires forming, thank Him—He’s already “working in you to will.” - Step Out in Obedience: Act on those God-given desires, trusting He also “works… to act.” - Cultivate Humility: Celebrate progress without pride; every advance is evidence of God’s enabling hand. |
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