If we believe in the doctrine of perseverance of the saints, i.e., once a person is saved, he cannot ultimately lose his salvation, then how do we explain Hebrews 6:4–6 which appears to suggest that someone who has received God’s grace, may be lost at the end? The doctrine of perseverance of the saints is clearly taught in theScripture (e.g., Jn 10:27–29 and Rom 8:37–39), therefore Hebrews 6:4–6cannot refer to a person who loses his salvation. In fact, Hebrews6:4–6 does not speak of a person who has received God’s grace, butsomeone who may be said to have tasted of the grace of God. He is onewho has been in fellowship with God’s people; worshipped together withthem; received instruction in the Word of God; and witnessed the workof God among His people (vv. 4–5). He may even be awakened to his ownsinful condition and has been enlightened sufficiently to agree thatJesus is truly the Christ, the Son of God (cf. Mk 4:16–17). However,although he professes to be a believer, he has never been regenerated,has not truly repented of his sins nor believe that he needs Christ tosave him. Such a person may fall away, i.e., renounce Christ and severhis associations with the Church. And if he does, he is in grave dangerof committing the unpardonable sin because of his deliberate rejectionof Christ despite having been enlightened by the Holy Spirit (v. 6).This interpretation is supported by its context, particularly thefollowing verses. Verses 7–8 illustrate the difference between thegenuine believer and the false believer by the two kinds of grounds:one which "bringeth forth herbs" and blessed of God; and the otherwhich "beareth thorns and briers" and rejected. This illustration bearsremarkable similarity with Jesus’ illustrations on the same subject inthe Parable of the seed and the sower (Matt 13) and of the tree and itsfruits (Matt 7:15–23). Moreover, in verses 9–12, the author applies histhesis to his readers by telling them that he is persuaded of betterthings of them because of their good works. |
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