Hebrews 6:18

That by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

That {G2443} by {G1223} two {G1417} immutable {G276} things {G4229}, in {G1722} which {G3739} it was impossible {G102} for God {G2316} to lie {G5574}, we might have {G2192} a strong {G2478} consolation {G3874}, who {G3588} have fled for refuge {G2703} to lay hold {G2902} upon the hope {G1680} set before us {G4295}:

so that through two unchangeable things, in neither of which God could lie, we, who have fled to take a firm hold on the hope set before us, would be strongly encouraged.

Thus by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged.

that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we may have a strong encouragement, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us:

Context of Hebrews 6:18

Hebrews 6:18 is part of a larger section (Hebrews 6:13-20) where the author encourages believers to press on to maturity and avoid spiritual stagnation. The immediate context emphasizes the absolute certainty of God's promises, particularly through His oath to Abraham, which serves as a powerful illustration of divine faithfulness. The author is reminding his audience, who faced potential weariness or apostasy, of the unwavering foundation of their Christian hope. This verse assures them that their diligence and patient endurance are not in vain because God's character guarantees the fulfillment of His word.

Key Themes and Messages

  • God's Immutability and Truthfulness: The phrase "two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie" refers to God's promise and His oath (as discussed in Hebrews 6:13-17). This highlights God's unchanging nature and His perfect integrity. He is utterly trustworthy, and His word is unbreakable. This divine characteristic provides the ultimate ground for human confidence.
  • Strong Consolation and Assurance: Because God cannot lie, believers receive "strong consolation" (Greek: paraklesis), which means deep comfort, encouragement, and firm assurance. This isn't a fleeting feeling but a profound conviction rooted in God's character, offering steadfast hope even amidst trials or doubts.
  • Fleeing for Refuge: The imagery of "fled for refuge" evokes the Old Testament concept of cities of refuge, where those who committed unintentional homicide could find safety from avengers. Spiritually, it portrays the believer's active choice to seek safety and salvation in God, trusting in His provision and protection. This act of "fleeing" signifies a turning away from self-reliance or worldly hope towards divine security.
  • Holding Fast to Hope: The verse concludes with the idea of laying "hold upon the hope set before us." This hope is not mere optimism but a confident expectation of future blessings, particularly eternal life and the fulfillment of God's promises in Christ. It is a hope that provides an anchor for the soul, steady and secure, reaching into the very presence of God.

Linguistic Insights

The term "immutable" (Greek: ametatheton) literally means "untransferable" or "unalterable." It strongly emphasizes God's unchanging nature and the absolute certainty of His word. The "two immutable things" are specifically God's promise and His oath, both of which are expressions of His unyielding faithfulness.

"Consolation" comes from the Greek word paraklesis, which can also be translated as "encouragement" or "exhortation." It speaks of a deep, abiding comfort and strength given to those who trust in God's promises. This is not a superficial comfort but a profound inner peace and assurance that stems from the reliability of God Himself.

The phrase "fled for refuge" (Greek: katapheugontes) vividly describes a decisive act of seeking safety, much like a person in danger running to a sanctuary. It highlights the believer's active choice to place their trust and dependence entirely on God for salvation and security, finding ultimate protection in His unchanging character and promises.

Practical Application

Hebrews 6:18 offers profound encouragement for believers today. In a world characterized by uncertainty and shifting sands, this verse reminds us that our faith is founded on an unshakeable reality: God's character.

  • Foundation for Assurance: When doubts arise or circumstances become difficult, we can find "strong consolation" in the knowledge that God cannot lie. His promises are not subject to change, and His oath is inviolable. This truth provides a solid foundation for Christian assurance and peace.
  • Motivation for Perseverance: Understanding the absolute certainty of God's word empowers believers to persevere through trials and temptations. The hope "set before us" is not a wish but a guaranteed reality, giving us strength to endure and run the race with patience (Hebrews 12:1).
  • Call to Trust and Rest: The imagery of "fleeing for refuge" invites us to actively cast our anxieties and fears upon God. Just as those in ancient times sought safety in designated cities, we find ultimate refuge and security in Christ, who is our High Priest and the guarantor of a better covenant (Hebrews 7:22). Our salvation is secure because it rests on God's perfect faithfulness, not on our fluctuating performance.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
  • Numbers 23:19

    God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
  • Titus 1:2

    In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
  • 1 Samuel 15:29

    And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he [is] not a man, that he should repent.
  • 2 Timothy 2:13

    If we believe not, [yet] he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
  • Romans 3:4

    God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
  • Psalms 46:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
  • Joshua 20:3

    That the slayer that killeth [any] person unawares [and] unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.

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