Pressing On to Maturity

The book of Hebrews is a sophisticated theological treatise, urging its readers—Jewish Christians facing persecution and temptation to revert to Judaism—to press into the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ. Our chosen passage, Hebrews 6:1-3, is a direct exhortation to spiritual progression. The author identifies six 'elementary doctrines' – repentance from dead works, faith toward God, instruction about washings, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. These are not dismissed as unimportant; indeed, they are the foundational tenets of Christian belief. However, the author implies a danger in perpetual preoccupation with the basics, akin to an adult continually subsisting on milk when solid food is necessary for robust health and strength. To remain indefinitely at the starting line is to misunderstand the dynamic nature of the Christian life. To 'go on to maturity' is not to abandon these foundational truths, but to build upon them, integrating them into a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of God's redemptive plan and character. It means moving beyond a simplistic 'what' of faith to grapple with the 'why' and 'how' in the complex tapestry of biblical revelation. Maturity involves a deeper apprehension of Christ's high priesthood, the new covenant, the nature of sanctification, and the eschatological hope that undergirds our present reality. It demands a faith that is robust enough to withstand theological challenges, interpret difficult passages, and apply biblical principles to intricate ethical dilemmas, rather than merely reciting catechisms. This journey requires intellectual engagement, spiritual discernment, and a willingness to wrestle with the profound mysteries of God. This pursuit of maturity is an active, intentional discipline, not a passive waiting. It calls us to move beyond a consumeristic approach to faith, where we merely absorb easily digestible truths, towards a discipleship that actively seeks to comprehend the 'breadth and length and height and depth' of Christ's love (Ephesians 3:18). It involves diligent study of Scripture, not just for comfort, but for understanding the intricate doctrines of grace, justice, sovereignty, and human responsibility. It necessitates a commitment to prayer that moves beyond petition to deep communion and theological reflection. Ultimately, spiritual maturity manifests in a transformed mind and life, where our actions, attitudes, and worldview are increasingly shaped by a profound and comprehensive grasp of divine truth, enabling us to discern good from evil and live consistently for God's glory.