From Grace? Yes!

The letter to the Hebrews is written to saved people. Throughout there are warnings about the danger of losing their salvation. (3:12-14; 4:11; 10:26-31). One of those is Heb. 6:4-8. Five parallel phrases leave no doubt these readers were saved: 1) "once enlightened," 2) "tasted of the heavenly gift," 3) "partakers of the Holy Spirit," 4) "tasted the good word of God," 5) "[tasted] the powers of the age to come." The writer says that "in the case of those who" have experienced these things "and then have fallen away," "they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame." The Jews crucified Jesus because they rejected his role as the Messiah. If these Hebrew Christians turn away from Him, they manifest the same attitude! In an analogy with crops (vv. 7-8), he warns of the consequences for those who had enjoyed these gracious blessings from God and now fail to bear fruit—such land and its crop "is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned." Certainly not a state of grace! In a consoling note of confidence, he then encourages them to persevere in diligent service, vv. 9-12. God will not fail. He will keep His promises. But, His promise of grace is conditional— "IF we hold fast" our faith, 3:6,14. "IF" not, then ...! 6:8; 10:26. – Steve Fontenot

If you would like further information mailed to you on this subject, or to set up a home Bible study, call (281) 446-2562, or write, humcofc@earthlink.net, or, P. O. Box 2706, Humble, TX, 77347. Web: http://www.kingwoodcable. com/colblip/humblechurchofchrist/

The Church of Christ in Humble meets at 621 Herman St., corner of Ave. "F" and Herman St., Sundays at 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 5:00 p.m. and Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.