Hebrews 5:11

Commentary on Hebrews 5:11 (KJV)

Hebrews 5:11 serves as a pivotal point in the Epistle to the Hebrews, where the author expresses frustration with the spiritual immaturity of his audience. This verse introduces a critical pause in the theological exposition, highlighting a challenge in teaching deeper truths due to the hearers' lack of readiness.

Context

This verse immediately follows a profound discussion about the high priesthood of Jesus Christ, particularly His appointment as a high priest "after the order of Melchizedek" (Hebrews 5:6-10). The author is about to elaborate further on this complex and significant theological concept, which is central to understanding Christ's unique role as both King and Priest. However, he anticipates difficulty, suggesting that his audience is not spiritually prepared to grasp such advanced teaching.

Key Themes

• Spiritual Immaturity: The primary theme is the audience's undeveloped spiritual state, preventing them from moving beyond foundational doctrines to more complex theological truths.
• Difficulty in Teaching: The author finds it challenging to convey profound insights because his listeners are not receptive or diligent enough to understand.
• Need for Growth: Implicit in the author's lament is an urgent call for his audience to mature in their faith and understanding.
• The Melchizedekian Priesthood: Though paused, the discussion of Christ's unique priesthood forms the backdrop against which this frustration is expressed, underscoring the importance of the subject matter that is "hard to be uttered" to those who are "dull of hearing."

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "dull of hearing" translates the Greek word nōthroi (νωθροί), which means sluggish, slow, lazy, or apathetic. It suggests a spiritual dullness or apathy rather than a physical hearing impairment. This isn't just about intellectual capacity but about a lack of diligence, attentiveness, and spiritual responsiveness. They were slow to understand not because the message was inherently impossible, but because they were spiritually lethargic and perhaps unwilling to make the effort to grasp deeper truths. This contrasts with the diligence encouraged later in Hebrews.

Related Scriptures

• The author elaborates on the contrast between spiritual "milk" for babes and "strong meat" for the mature immediately following this verse: Hebrews 5:12-14.
• This frustration sets the stage for the powerful exhortation to "leave the principles of the doctrine of Christ, and go on unto perfection" in Hebrews 6:1.
• The full explanation of Christ's Melchizedekian priesthood, which the author struggled to introduce, is found in Hebrews Chapter 7.

Practical Application

Hebrews 5:11 serves as a timeless challenge to believers today. It prompts self-reflection on our own spiritual growth and receptivity:

• Self-Assessment: Are we truly eager to learn and grow in our understanding of God's Word, or are we content with superficial knowledge? Do we exhibit spiritual diligence?
• Commitment to Growth: Spiritual maturity doesn't happen passively. It requires active engagement with scripture, prayer, and a willingness to apply deeper truths to our lives.
• Overcoming Apathy: This verse calls us to examine any spiritual sluggishness or apathy that might hinder our ability to grasp and live out the profound truths of the Christian faith.
• Discipleship: It highlights the challenge for teachers and leaders in guiding believers toward deeper understanding, emphasizing the need for both clear teaching and receptive hearts.