Pastor Barry's  "Chapter & Verse"  Day 363

December 29;      Hebrews 5:14;       208/260(III);        ‘Full Age’

Hebrews 5:14 But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

A great disappointment in the ministry is the lack of spiritual growth of some Christians.  I believe Paul wrote Hebrews, but regardless, the author is saying that he has much to teach them about the Example of our Lord Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who learned obedience by what He suffered.  In verses 11-12 we are told that those being taught had become dull of hearing, though they could be and should be further along in their spiritual development.  These believers needed to have the basics of the faith taught to them again.  The reason for their lack of spiritual growth is not stated and it varies from one Christian to the next.  Once you are born again and understand who the Lord Jesus is and what He willingly did for you, it makes no sense to have little or no interest to learn everything you can and become a strong, mature Christian, able to help others.  ‘Solid food’ represents deeper spiritual truths, that those who have been diligent to learn the basics move on to.  ‘Full age’ simply means that Christians should be desirous to grow for their own edification and to protect themselves from unsound doctrine and unwholesome conduct.  What a blessing it is to grow spiritually and through knowledge of the Word, prayer and fellowship with the Lord, know to a greater and greater degree biblical truth, not deceptive teaching.  The Lord Jesus said if we continue in the Word we will know the truth and the truth we know will make us free.