Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Hebrews 6:1-2 ... the elementary teachings about Christ ... the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
THE ELEMENTARY THINGS
In many places, school is back in session. Students have begun new terms and are getting acquainted with new teachers and new subjects.
Our educational process is a growth. We start with the basics and then move to the more advanced ideas. Our Christian educational process is similar. We start with the "elementary" truths of the Bible and over time grow deeper in our knowledge and understanding. The letter to the Hebrews mentions several of these elementary teachings, things that every Christian should know about and have well in hand:
Repentance and faith -- It is a fundamental concept that Christians seek to turn away from sin and look for forgiveness in Jesus. Jesus gave His life on the cross, dying for our acts of disobedience. Therefore, since He died for our sin, we have a desire to stay away from evil and to try to get rid of it when we fall into it.
The resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment -- It is a basic Bible concept that the dead will be raised back to life. Jesus will visibly return and on that Day the graves will be opened. Those wswho have believed that Jesus died for them will be counted righteous and gain everlasting life. For those who have not believed, their sins will be counted against them and they will be separated from God forever. The "judgment" is a basic Bible teaching.
Baptism -- We learn early on that baptism is a "washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit." It cleanses us from our guilt, creates or strengthens faith in Jesus in our hearts, and is a method by which God brings us into His family of forgiven sinners.
These are all basic Christian truths. What a blessing that God has not hidden these things from us, but has revealed them to us in His word and has also used Christian pastors, teachers, and friends to communicate them to us. Therefore appreciate your instruction in the things of God!
