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Hebrews 6:7-8
Hebrews 6:7-8 is an illustration that closely reflects that of Matthew 13:1-23 in the parable of the sower. Matthew 13:22-23 states (NIV), “The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” All the earth “drinks in the rain” when it comes (Hebrews 6:7 NKJV) just as all who are present hear the word of God when it is proclaimed. Those who actively seek to grow in their relationship with Jesus produce a “crop” (Matthew 13:23), but those who refuse or discard the word of God produce only thorns which is unfruitful, producing no “yield” (Matthew 13:23) and are only to be burned up in the end (Hebrews 6:8).
This is an example of support for the preceding passage of Hebrews 6:4-6 in the outcome for one who has “fallen away” from God.
This passage of Hebrews 6:7-8 helps us to better understand the preceding passage of Hebrews 6:4-6 of what the author of Hebrews is speaking of in “falling away” from God. The outcome of the “falling away” is a permanent falling not to return – a permanently hardened heart toward God and our Savior Jesus that is intent on rebellion rather than a misunderstood gospel and salvation that needs further “milk” (Hebrews 5:13) to develop properly. For as the rain falls on the earth – to the good and the bad – so is the gospel preached, but all who hear do not respond in a way in which is desirable by the Lord. Hearing the gospel is a necessity that brings us to a realization of the need for forgiveness – the need for Jesus in our lives and the guidance that only comes through His Holy Spirit given to all who put their faith in Him. Our part is to bring the conviction that comes through hearing God’s word to the cross in sincere humility with an open heart to Jesus to fill us with His Holy Spirit and make us a new person – in Christ.
Dear LORD,
The Apostle Paul gave instruction in 2 Timothy 3:14-15 to continue in learning from the Scriptures, “which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (ESV). Please open our eyes, hearts, minds, and souls to Your word that we too would be compelled to bring our sins to the cross of Jesus and ask forgiveness, that we too would be forgiven and given Your Holy Spirit as our heart-felt indwelling guide to eternal righteousness – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.