사귐의 소리 2025

<사귐의 소리> 블로그 사용 방법

Hebrews 6:9-12 “Better Things That Lead to Salvation”

—

5–7 minutes

Hebrews 6:9-12 NIV

Suggested Praise Songs:

Resources for Family Worship (with Children):

Explanation:

The author repeatedly reminds us that the salvation we have already received through faith is not yet complete (v. 9). The phrase “concerning you, things that accompany salvation” (v. 9) refers to the ultimate fulfillment in God’s kingdom. The salvation we have now will be brought to completion in God’s kingdom. The statement “there are better things” suggests that, while obstacles hinder their spiritual growth, there are also elements that support it. One such element is God’s “righteousness” (v. 10). The righteous God remembers and helps those who have shown love and dedication to Him. The readers of Hebrews have been serving the saints out of love for God in the past and continue to do so to this day.

The translation “that you may realize your hope” (v. 11) does not adequately convey the emphasis in the original text. A more accurate translation, as seen in the Korean Revised Version, would be “what we earnestly desire is…” This rendering better reflects the original intent. Here, the “hope” refers to the completion of salvation. By saying “each one of you,” the author addresses the readers individually, emphasizing personal responsibility. The phrase “the same diligence” refers to maintaining the same level of diligence as when they first began their faith journey. The term “diligence” can also be translated as “eagerness” or “earnestness.” By using the phrase “to the very end,” the author expresses his hope that they will persevere with that same attitude until they finish the race.

The word “sluggish” (v. 12) is the opposite of the previously mentioned “diligence.” It can be understood as “spiritual laziness” or “spiritual apathy.” To avoid falling into this state, they are encouraged to “imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Faith is not something that is perfected in a single moment; instead, it is a continuous journey that requires perseverance. When facing temptations, trials, and hardships, remembering those who have faithfully finished the race before us can provide great strength and encouragement.

Meditation:

What the author repeatedly emphasizes in this letter is that faith is a journey that must be walked daily. This journey is filled with various dangers and obstacles, and only by persevering through them can we witness the fulfillment of the salvation we have already received. Among the readers, some felt lost in the wilderness, and some even yearned to return to Egypt. With a heartfelt desire that not a single person would fall away but rather complete the journey and reach the fulfillment of their salvation, the author writes this letter.

Earlier, the author warned that falling away in the middle of the journey of faith is a great tragedy, urging believers to remain spiritually vigilant. After addressing these harmful elements that threaten the journey of faith, the author now introduces positive elements that help believers complete their faith journey.

The first positive element is trusting in our faithful and righteous God. He remembers and responds to every act of dedication and sacrifice you have made for Him. Despite various temptations, trials, and hardships, if we remain faithful to Him, He will respond to us with even greater faithfulness. In fact, even when we are unfaithful, God still remains faithful to us. How much more will He faithfully help us when we strive to be faithful to Him?

The second positive element is remembering the people of faith who have gone before us. When we face difficulties and feel shaken in our journey of faith, reflecting on those who have already finished the race can give us great strength. Knowing that there were people who endured even greater temptations and trials than we face today encourages us to persevere. This is why the author introduces the heroes of faith in Chapter 11 — to inspire us to acquire the “faith and patience” necessary to complete the race to the very end.

Prayer:

Lord, I desire to run with joy and finish this narrow path I have entered by following you. But I know that I cannot do this with my own strength. There are too many things that could cause me to stumble or give up along the way. By my own will, I cannot overcome all these obstacles. In those moments, please help me to rely on our faithful God and remember the people of faith who have gone before us. Through this, let me witness the fulfillment of the salvation I am already experiencing. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Children & Youth:

Key Point: Faith is a journey that requires patience and trust in God. Even when things are hard, God remains faithful, and we can find strength by remembering the people who have followed God before us.

  • For Preschool-Lower Elementary
    • Have you ever tried to finish a big puzzle or build something with blocks and felt like giving up? What helped you keep going?
    • How do you feel when someone remembers something nice you did? Did you know God remembers all the good things you do for Him?
  • For Upper Elementary-Middle School
    • What do you think it means that God is “faithful,” even when we make mistakes?
    • Is there someone in your life (like a parent, teacher, or friend) who shows strong faith in God? How can their example encourage you?
  • For High School
    • The author of Hebrews encourages us to remember those who have finished the race of faith. Who inspires you to keep trusting God when life gets tough?
    • What does it look like to rely on God instead of just your own strength when life gets overwhelming?

Activity Idea (For All Ages) – “Faith Footprints”: Have students trace their feet on paper and write one challenge they are facing on the footprint. Then, have them write or draw one way God has been faithful in their life. Encourage them to display this as a reminder to keep trusting God on their journey of faith.

Leave a comment