Encouraged by God’s Promises – The Call to Spiritual Progress

The Book of Hebrews contains some of the most challenging spiritual warnings in the New Testament. Among these, Hebrews 6 presents a stern call: "Do not stray from the path of spiritual growth!"

The writer warns that falling away from Christ could have severe consequences, emphasizing the importance of persevering in our faith.

In our last study, we examined Hebrews 6:4–6 and learned that repentance is difficult for those who abandon Christ entirely, as He is the only way to salvation. However, when a believer genuinely returns in repentance, restoration is possible. Now, the author shifts from the severity of the warning to a message of encouragement.

The author expresses hope for his audience, inspired by their spiritual progress. As Hebrews 6:9 says, "We are convinced of better things concerning you, and things that accompany salvation."

Why Press On to Spiritual Maturity?

The author’s encouragement extends to us today. Hebrews calls believers to avoid spiritual stagnation and to keep moving toward maturity in Christ. This is crucial because spiritual growth brings assurance of our salvation and deepens our relationship with God. When we remain diligent and intentional, we honor God's promises and become partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4).

Encouragement by God’s Promises

The writer uses Abraham's story to illustrate God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises. It seemed impossible when Abraham received God's promise to be the father of a great nation. Yet, despite his age, Abraham trusted God's faithfulness, waiting 25 years for the promise to be fulfilled. His patience and faith were rewarded when Isaac was born, proving that God always keeps His word.

Application

Just as Abraham was given specific promises, we, as believers, have also been given “precious and very great promises” (2 Peter 1:4). The key takeaway is that God's promises are unchanging. God is faithful no matter how long we wait or how impossible they seem.

Arthur W. Pink captures this beautifully:

"How wonderful it is to know that our God is immutable. No circumstances can alter Him, and no power can overthrow Him. There is no 'shadow of turning' with Him. What He promised, He will perform."

Three Essentials for Spiritual Progress

With God’s unchangeable faithfulness in mind, we, too, are called to spiritual progress. Here are three commands that the author of Hebrews emphasizes, which we can apply to our lives today:

1. Be Diligent in Maintaining Faith, Work, and Love.

"Show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end" (Hebrews 6:11).

True faith is not passive. It involves actively trusting God's promises and consistently demonstrating love and good works. As A.W. Tozer said, "True faith is active. It moves toward God and rests in His promises, not once but continuously."

2. Be Intentional in Your Pursuit of Spiritual Progress.

The author warns against being "sluggish" (Hebrews 6:12a). Intentional discipline and dedication are essential to achieving spiritual maturity.

Dallas Willard reminds us,

"The goal of the Christian life is spiritual maturity, and the only way to get there is through intentional discipline and dedication."

3. Be Imitators of Those Who Inherited the Promises.

"Be imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises" (Hebrews 6:12b). We have examples of faithfulness from both Scripture and our lives.

Charles Spurgeon once said, "The footsteps of great men and women of faith are paths laid out for us. It is not enough to admire their journey; we must imitate their faithfulness."

Reflection Questions:

• What signs might indicate you are becoming spiritually "sluggish?”

• Who in your life or in Scripture do you admire for their faith and patience? What specific qualities could you imitate?

  
  

Until next time, make it your goal to make spiritual progress daily!

Pastor Bob

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About Pastor Bob Moya, DMin.

Pastor Bob Moya has served as the lead pastor with his wife Candace at City Chapel in Arlington, Texas for over 22+ years. He recently graduated with a doctorate degree in Spiritual Renewal and Leadership in the spring of 2024. When not serving at the church, you'll find Bob enjoying a good read at Barnes & Noble, sipping a nitro cold brew or black coffee from Starbucks, or spending time with his family.