6:1 So let us move on from the foundation of the Word of the Anointed toward maturity, not laying again the foundation of changing our minds from dead works and toward faith in God,

6:2 and of teachings about immersions, dedications, the resurrection, and eternal judgment.

6:3 And this we will do, with God’s permission.

6:4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, who have sampled the heavenly gift, who were associates of the Holy Spirit,

6:5 who have sampled the ideal proclamation of God as well as the coming age,

6:6 and then defect, to be restored to another change of mind as long as they are re-crucifying the God-Man by their actions and holding him up to public mockery.

6:7 Ground that soaks up the rain and grows crops is a blessing from God to the farmers,

6:8 but if it produces only thorns and thistles it is worthless and cursed, and it will finally be burned.

6:9 But we are convinced of better things about you, dear ones— things that have to do with salvation— even though we talk like this.

6:10 For God is not unjust, that he would forget your work and the love you displayed in his Name through your continued service to the holy ones.

6:11 Now we long for each one of you to show the same diligence toward the assured hope until the end, so you won’t become lazy.

6:12 So imitate those who inherit the promises through faith and patience.

6:13 For God made a promise to Abraham (and since there was no one greater, he swore by himself),

6:14 “I solemnly swear that I will greatly bless you and greatly multiply your descendants.”

6:15 And after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.

6:16 People swear by someone greater, because the oath confirms their words and ends all dispute.

6:17 Similarly, God made this oath for the purpose of making every effort to show his unchangeable decision to the heirs of the promise.

6:18 So by means of two unchangeable matters, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge in the hope that has already been settled can be greatly comforted.

6:19 This hope is an anchor for our souls, secure and confirmed. It takes us into the inner room beyond the curtain,

6:20 where the Forerunner, Jesus, entered for our sakes, making him the Ruling Priest in the order of Melchizedek forever.