Hebrews 6:1 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The writer urges believers to press beyond the first lessons of the faith toward maturity, rather than endlessly rebuilding the same foundation.
What Does Hebrews 6:1 Mean?
The previous chapter ended by rebuking readers who still needed milk when they ought to be teaching others. Now the writer calls them forward. 'Leaving the principles' does not mean abandoning the basics but moving on from them, the way a builder, having laid a sure foundation, does not keep digging it up but raises the house upon it.
To 'go on unto perfection' is to grow toward completeness, the full stature God intends. Repentance from lifeless deeds and faith toward God are named as the ground floor of a life in Christ. They are precious, but they are a beginning. The believer is meant to keep maturing, not to circle forever at the door, trusting the One who began the work to carry it on.
Hebrews 6:1 in the Original Language
teleiotes (τελειότης), 'perfection' -- maturity or completeness, the full-grown state, not flawless sinlessness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hebrews 6:1
What does Hebrews 6:1 mean?
The writer urges believers to press beyond the first lessons of the faith toward maturity, rather than endlessly rebuilding the same foundation.