Lecture on the Book of Hebrews

Introduction

• Book of Hebrews: One of the most controversial parts of the New Testament.
• Denominational Independence: Calvary Chapel is non-denominational; not bound by traditional denominational doctrines.
• Emphasis on following Jesus and the Bible directly, without adhering to man-made traditions.

Key Message Series: "Who Are Those Who Can Never Be Saved?"

• Focus on Hebrews 6: Discussion on salvation and falling away from faith.
• Reading Passage: Hebrews 6, verses 4-6.
• Key Concept: It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened and then fall away to be renewed to repentance.

Encouragement to Engage

• Take notes directly in your Bible or digital devices.
• Importance of personal Bible study and direct engagement with scripture.

Understanding Denominations and Teaching

• Non-denominational Approach: Allows diverse backgrounds to explore the Bible without predetermined biases.
• Traditionally Churched: Encouragement to let scripture speak for itself rather than reading through the lens of past doctrines.

Importance of Personal Relationship with Scripture

• Personal Bible Study: Encouraged as essential to maintain personal faith and avoid being led astray.
• Use of Scripture: Encouraged to let the Bible interpret itself.
• Warning Against "Bible Roulette": Avoid random interpretation without context.

Urgency and the Role of the Church

• Sense of Urgency: Recognition of a growing need to understand and act on one's faith.
• Church as a Beacon: The importance of the church and individual believers as solutions to societal issues.

Views on Hebrews 6

1. View One: Christians can lose their salvation and cannot be renewed.
   • Criticized for lacking hope and being merciless.
2. View Two: Passage refers to false believers who were never truly saved.
   • No issue with this interpretation.
3. View Three (Preferred View): An exhortation for true believers to grow deeper in faith and maturity.
   • Emphasis that there is no other form of salvation apart from Christ.

Exhortations and Warnings

• Encouragement to Grow: Urging believers to deepen their understanding and relationship with Christ.
• Warnings: Against turning back to old practices or abandoning faith.
• Analogy of Classroom: Once you've started the course of faith, you cannot go back.

Assurance in Faith

• Scriptural Assurances:
  • 2 Timothy 2:15, 3:16-17: Importance of knowing and rightly dividing the word of truth.
  • 2 Peter 1:10: Assurance in making one’s calling and election sure.
  • John 15:4-5: Abiding in Christ as essential for spiritual fruitfulness.

Conclusion and Reflection

• Serious Consideration: Encouraged self-examination of personal faith.
• Rededication and Prayer: Invitation to rededicate lives and seek God’s guidance.
• Spiritual Preparedness: Emphasis on being prepared for trials and remaining steadfast in faith.

Closing Thoughts

• Challenge: Recognize and remove anything that hinders your faith.
• Community and Gathering: Importance of not forsaking assembling together as believers.
• Final Prayer and Stand Against Opposition: Call for spiritual vigilance and dedication.