Mysty PfefferTherefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits.
Hebrews 6:1-3
Hope in the finished work of Jesus.
It’s all we have.
No work based faith will bring us closer to God or into heaven because God looks at the heart. No act of contrition, tradition, or ritual of religion will bring us closer to God unless we embrace His son, Jesus, and receive love and faith as God’s child.
The author of Hebrews urges us to move forward in the faith Jesus provides. Beyond the foundational principles set by Jesus Himself: Repentance, faith, resurrection of the dead, eternal judgment. It’s heart wrenching to listen to His plea to his Jewish brothers regarding their search for eternal life.
Jesus told the Pharisees in John 5:39-40–“You search the scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me. Yet, you refuse to come to me that you may have life. For, if you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote of me.”
English Standard Version, Bible Gateway
Jesus also clarifies whoever has true faith will endure to the end. Those who flirt with Christianity and try to do things out of their own strength will fall away. It is utter dependence on Jesus that our hope is built, nothing else.
JOHN 10:22-30
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
English Standard Version, Bible Gateway
It’s not unusual for people to fear change and loss. The radical life of following Jesus was too much for a law abiding Jew to swallow. Sometimes it is for us too. Giving up status, work, opportunity, family relationships, and cultural rituals passed down for centuries was life altering for the people of Israel. They knew they would embrace poverty, suffering, persecution, famine, and sword as they submitted all to Christ…..
Just as Jesus suffered, they too, would endure suffering for following Him.
Although, they would do it with hope for eternal life and an inner peace of their souls. A peace only He can provide. It was worth it for them and He is worth it for us. We won’t be like those who’s outward appearance of shallow faith becomes evident under hardship. There will be no lack of fruit flowing from our changed hearts. Moreover, we will avoid the world’s empty promises that ultimately lead to bitterness and hopelessness.
Because Jesus calls us to examine our hearts and seek healing in His all consuming power over death and despair. He is calling each of us every day. Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden, place your burdened soul down and trust me to carry you through.
I’m praying my heart and your heart is His today, friends. As we reach out to Him with all we have, even if it is a tiny thread of hope…..He will multiply it ten-fold with each step of faith. Love you!
