Verse: Hebrews 5:11-14
11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
Thoughts
This raises a great question. What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus? Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words explains that the Greek word for disciple (methatos) means “learner” or “pupil.” It means more than just someone who sits in class, however. It indicates someone who “follows the teachings” of a teacher. An adherent. Someone who changes their life according to the Master’s teaching.
This may explain why the writer of Hebrews is frustrated here. The Christians he (or she) is writing to have clearly had time enough in the faith to learn the head knowledge, but it hasn’t translated into life change. So the writer feels the need to start all over with them. How can they be ready for more challenging teaching, if they can’t even put into practice the basics?
There are a lot of encouraging sub-points here. First – discipleship has a growth curve. You aren’t expected to have it all down quickly or right away. In fact, it is a lifelong journey. Second – there is grace for you if you are struggling in your faith. Notice the author doesn’t kick them out but rather encourages them to step up their efforts. Third – we all have a role to play in “teaching.” In some way, we all are teachers of the Word of God by the way we talk, live our lives, treat others, and even, yes, teach others the Truth about Jesus.
The main point that hits me though is that the maturity the author is looking for comes through “constant use” and “training.” If you read this and wonder, “but how can I grow?” Here is your answer. Learn it and do it. What you have seen in Jesus and in the Word of God, put it into practice. Do it. Listen to the Word and allow it to change how you live your life.
As Paul said in Philippians 4:9, “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.” This is the way to grow. This is how we truly become disciples – those who adhere to the teachings of Jesus. By living them every moment, every day, for a lifetime. Where in your life do you need to hear this?
Prayer
I pray that you would help me to grow, Lord. I don’t want to become stagnate in my faith. Challenge me, stretch me, and teach me so that I can line my life up with yours.
Author: Christian Dunn
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