Blessings here and for eternity
Even though we are speaking this way, dearly loved friends, in your case we are confident of things that are better and that pertain to salvation. For God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you demonstrated for his name by serving the saints—and by continuing to serve them. Hebrews 6:9-10 CSB
From the text, the author of Hebrews shifts away from this stern warning to a word of encouragement. It is important that Christ’s followers be reminded of guarding their spiritual well-being. We can read from the text that the author’s warning did not necessarily apply directly to his immediate audience, as he addresses them, “even though we are speaking this way, dearly loved friends, in your case we are confident of things that are better and that pertain to salvation.” The author uses the Greek perfect tense when he says, “we are confident,” meaning that he carefully thought of the demeanor of the readers and was assured of their status as believers by their actions. These believers were dedicated to the ministry and loved the Lord, displaying it through their service to other believers. Not only did they have a past record of servitude, but they were actively participating in ministry opportunities. On top of that, the author mentions God’s justice as a form of evidence to the readers’ positions as believers, as He “will not forget your work.” The author sees that their actions could only have been done by one who was transformed by God. Since the readers are heirs of salvation, they will not fall away from their faith. The writer instills in the mind of believers that there is assurance in salvation. Now, this isn’t to say that these verses are justification of salvation through works. Salvation is still only through Jesus Christ, but evidence of one who has accepted Christ as their Savior will produce fruit in their lives naturally, as they are rooted in Christ. The author clearly sees the fruit being produced by these believers. He wants the readers to be encouraged and not despair as they continue to manifest the fruit of God’s working in their lives. Believers are sure of better things in the future while the unbelievers will be facing God’s judgment. So, in light of all this, if we claim to be believers, our actions should reflect Christ within our lives. Those around us will see and can tell whether or not we are truly displaying Christ to the world. Believers in Christ while they await for the benefits God is preparing for them in the future, while here on earth they can enjoy the blessings of the reality of knowing they are saved.
Blessings,
Isaac De Guzman
