Hebrews 6:1-3
Verse 2 …instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
The next thing the author of Hebrews mentioned as one of the basic elements which should be so engrained in us that we can move past to deeper things of God, is about one of the laws which was a stumbling block for some of the Jews. The Pharisees in particular were almost obsessed with the cleansing rituals and so we may wonder why it was considered a basic of the Christian faith.
To answer that question we need to understand the slight shifting of the traditions from Old Testament and Jewish tradition to the New Testament, New Covenant and Christian requirements. Of course our salvation doesn’t lose or gain value based on these actions but a genuine faith and relationship with the Almighty does. This is why we should be concerned with going past the basics.
Some theologians believe this word translated as cleansing rights was actually talking about baptism. While the ritual cleansing took care of the outward status of filthiness it did nothing for their inner being. The problem was, that is exactly what they thought it was doing. Because it was part of the law given to Moses on Sinai, they were relying on that and other such laws to make them right with God.
Though they used the laws to make a good relationship with God, they always had the understanding that their souls were safe because they were God’s covenant children. They knew their circumcision set them apart and because of that they never doubted they had an in with God even if they failed at fulfilling all of the laws. This was the reason they thought the Gentile believers needed to be circumcised to be part of the faith.
It is because of the Gentile believers not being commanded to follow the law of circumcision and all of the ceremonial laws that we can understand this to be something other than the ritual cleansing they held to so strictly. All that said, baptism was being listed as one of the basics of our faith meaning we need to hold tight to it as a foundation stone as we move on to things of deeper understanding.
Making It Personal
Do you find yourself stuck in your faith about things which don’t really matter? What are some things which distract you from looking for deeper understanding of the faith? What does your baptism mean to you?
Making It Personal Kids
Are there habits of the faith which you don’t know the reason of why they are done? Who could help you understand them? Have you ever talked to your mom and dad about your baptism?
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for our salvation and Your choice of including those of us outside the Jewish nation. Please give us the wisdom we need to live in all the ways which will bring You glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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