If we have rightly divided the Word of truth, then our interpretation of Hebrews 6:4-6 is supported. Hebrews 6:4-6 is warning the believers to be careful not to fall away from Christ.

But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. (Hebrews 6:9)

By the use of the term "beloved" we know that the sixth chapter of Hebrews is speaking to the Jewish Christians. The expression "better things of you, and things that accompany salvation," reveals beyond all doubt that the falling away and the thorns and thistles mentioned previously refer to the "beloved."

We understand, therefore, that Hebrews 6:4-6 is not a special hypothetical case removed from the surrounding context but a warning to those to whom the Book of Hebrews is addressed.

That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (Hebrews 6:12)

The above verse is totally in keeping with our position. Also we are presented with the concept that inheriting the promises of God requires faith and patience. Indeed the Christian salvation is not an unconditional guarantee that we will be admitted to Heaven when we die but depends on our faith and patience.

Now comes a passage that is rejected out of hand as applying to Christians. It does not fit the Evangelical model. But it certainly is in correspondence with our understanding of the primary thesis of the Book of Hebrews, which is that Hebrews is an exhortation to press into the will of God and a warning that not to do so is inviting destruction.

For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. (Hebrews 10:26,27)

We preached this once years ago. A young Christian man in our church at that time had a hard time with the idea that God would judge those who sin willfully. He fooled around with the idea, refusing to accept it, left the church, and went into sin.

Do you know there is no provision in the old covenant or the new covenant for willful sin?

What is willful sin?

I will give you an example.

On one occasion a young lady said to me, "I am going out tonight with a boy. We are going to do things in his car we shouldn't do. But tomorrow I am going to ask the Lord to forgive me and He will."

This is willful sin.

I remember reading in a Christian book a true account in which a lady said, as she was about to fornicate, "Lord, forgive us for this that we are about to do."

This is willful sin.

There is no provision for willful sin under either covenant, only for sin that you practice unknowingly or when you are deceived or when you are battling some lust you can't control. When you can't control your passions you are to go to the elders of the assembling and get help!

To choose to sin when you have the power to walk away from it, knowing it is sin, brings you under the curse of God. I don't care how much you may expostulate about grace and mercy.

To be continued.