Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 24:69 (Autumn 2020)
Article: A Soteriological Examination of Hebrews 6:4–8: A Presentation & Proposed Solution, Part I
Author: Matthew Wong

JODT 24:69 (Autumn 2020) p. 135

A Soteriological Examination of Hebrews 6:4–8:
A Presentation & Proposed Solution, Part I

Matthew Wong

* Matthew Wong, M.A., associate tutor, University of Chester via King’s Evangelical Divinity School, Broadstairs Kent, United Kingdom

Hebrews 6:4–6 is known for its hermeneutical complexities as well as its ominous warning. Despite centuries of scholarly examination,1 the tension between believers’ eternal security and the irrevocable consequences of “falling away” remains. Whilst traditional attempts at identifying the “apostasy” typically provide an exegesis of verses 4–6 before examining the readers’ spiritual status, two key contextual aspects are often overlooked: the background of Kadesh Barnea and the imminent AD 70 judgement. When interpreted in light of Numbers 13—14 and the letter’s religious and socio-political background, it is argued that the soteriological conflict in verse 6 is resolved. The study does not present an exhaustive survey of hermeneutical methodologies; rather it aims to summate recent attempts at resolving soteriological conflict by rediscovering the passage’s Old Testament background and the epistle’s historical context. When interpreted in light of the challenges facing the original recipients, it is concluded that Hebrews 6:4–6 does not warn against loss of salvation but rather physical judgment in AD 70 and loss of eschatological rewards for believers who revert to Judaism.

Introduction

The epistle to the Hebrews is a pastoral missive, encouraging a Jewish body of believers to remain faithful to Christ in the face of acute persecution (10:32–34).2 Due to the stark nature of the warning, the well-known passage of 6:4–6 is a source of much debate within contemporary

JODT 24:69 (Autumn 2020) p. 136

evangelicalism. Can a believer apostatize? If so, does an apostate believer forfeit salvation? Is the writer warning the readers that spiritual stagnation will result in divine chastisement in this life, loss of rewards in the next, or both? Are the recipients even true believers at all?

The article provides an exegesis of verses 4–6 that focuses on the main points of discussion relevant to id...