9 But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner.
The point of this section (6:9–12) indicates that the readers of Hebrews were not at the place described in the first eight verses.
9 But,
The word “but” introduces a contrast to the first eight verses. Now there is a change from warning to encouragement.
beloved,
The author viewed his readers as “beloved,” as fellow Christians. He reassured them that they were part of the family of God and were loved because of it. This is the only occurrence of “beloved” in the book of Hebrews; it is a term that affirms his readers as members of the church. It was introduced at this time to soften the language of verse 6 lest anyone should over-interpret its implications. Neither should we minimize the severity of the warning in Hebrews 5:11–6:12 because it might diminish the efficacy of the sacrifice of Christ. It threatened to spread to fellow believers.
we are confident [persuaded]
The writer had every confidence that his readers would transcend the issues of the first eight verses. He was strongly convinced of their commitment to Christ. The author came to a settled conviction about the genuineness of his readers’ salvation (perfect tense).
of better things concerning you,
The “better things” refer to the “things that accompany salvation.” The context indicates that the readers should be better than thorn-bearing believers (previous verse). The latter crowd had their inheritance or reward burned to nothing.
In contrast to lack of fruit set forth in verse 8, the author expected divine production from his readers. He anticipated “better things” from them, things that would be rewarded in eternity.
yes, things that accompany salvation,
“Salvation” here is not initial salvation of the soul but what the believer inherits in the future as reward (He 1:14). “Accompany” means to conjoin; there are things that join salvation. There are dynamics that associate themselves with a life lived for the glory of God.
though we speak in this manner.
Although the readers were warned about distorting their faith by immaturity, the author was confident that they would lead a life of “better things.”
PRINCIPLE:
The maturing believer has “better things” ahead.
APPLICATION:
It is God’s grace that produces divine fruit. The more the Christian moves toward better things, the greater his production will be. Spiritual fruit is any act that glorifies God. People in the family of God will show family characteristics. They will act like their Father.
