In Hebrews 6:1 we read “Therefore leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection”. Perfection here means completeness or maturity; it is like moving from first to second grade, not repeating the first over and over again, but building on the foundation that has already been laid. 2 Peter 3:18 says we should “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” And in Ephesians 4:15 we are to “grow up in all things into Him…” According to Hebrews 5:12-14 it is advancing from those first principles of the doctrine of Christ (referred to as milk) into the solid food of the Word and doctrines of God; going on to perfection is all about growing, developing, and maturing in Christ and our walk with God, it is building on and adding to these basic foundational truths. 2 Peter 1:5-7 says we should add to our faith such qualities as virtue, knowledge, self control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. Peter approaches the end of his writings by telling us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” 2 Peter 3:18. Hebrews 6:1 continues by saying “not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God,” not laying the foundation of our faith over and over again, advancing no farther than the elementary principles of the Christian life. As to repentance, if we inadvertently stumble it is not necessary for us to be born again all over, but to repent of the present error, see 1 John 1:9. I believe we see this truth in John 13:10 where Jesus in washing the disciples feet said to Peter, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean”, cleansing from the present dust of the road! Finally “Pursue peace with all people and holiness (purity”) without which no one will see the Lord” Hebrews 12:14.
Growing spiritually
By Rose Hill
God wants us to spiritually mature and grow,
Advancing from the elementary things that we know.
When we are growing in godliness, kindness, and love,
We are greatly pleasing our Father above.
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright …1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission.