Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God . . . (Heb 6:1)
What does the author of Hebrews 6 want us to understand by the word “perfection” as used in this verse? The Jamieson, Fausset & Brown (JFB) Commentary on Hebrews 6 says this about it:
perfection–the matured knowledge of those who are “of full age” ( Heb 5:14 ) in Christian attainments.
In the JFB commentary, “full age” can be understood to mean mature. Once a person is mature in Christian attainments, what does their life look like to others?
- This person is not easily swayed by false or erroneous doctrines; but it’s someone who ministers God’s love and mercy to others. (Eph 4:13-16)
- Their relationship with the Lord remains steadfast, regardless of the current circumstances of their life. (Col 1:23)
- A mature Christian doesn’t get anxious over things that they can’t control—especially about events reported in the news. (Ps 112:7)
- He or she will not allow any circumstance of life to disrupt their faith in God nor their daily spiritual habits of quiet time with the Lord, prayer, and Bible reading. (Act 2:42)
- They maintain their childlike sense of wonder and trust in God. (Mt 18:3)
- A mature Christian does not compare themselves with others. (2 Cor 10:12)
- This is a person who is rooted and grounded in love—the love of God for them and the love of God for other people. (Eph 3:17)
The verse at the top of this article (Heb 6:1) reminds each of us that the Lord doesn’t want us to remain stationary in our Christian walk but that we need to build upon the foundational principles of our faith and to grow in maturity in Christ Jesus.
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