First Works:

Chapter 1 – Perfection

Here we see the term “renewal unto repentance”, but what does that mean? What does that look like? Let’s establish a few facts out of this passage.  Paul is referring to those who were full believers perfected in the things of God and established a relationship so great that they have tasted the good word and the powers beyond this world. They are them that know God beyond what the human mind can comprehend. This is why the verse says it is impossible for them to start their works over again laying again the foundation of repentance. Verse 6 makes this clear, for them to turn away after having the full knowledge of God beyond belief is the very act of denial, kills the very spirit of God within them and calls God a liar before the world. 

So, what does that mean for us who “believe”? Does that mean we can’t be saved again if we mess up? Does that mean, after accepting God and walking after the righteousness of God we cannot again start over if we fall into worldly temptation? Absolutely not! This passage of the word is referring to the elect group who has “perfected”. We can use Paul for an example.

An evil spirit recognized the very God in Paul.  Paul’s ministry is known far beyond the earthly world.  He operates in gifts and powers beyond this world and have tasted the very existence of God beyond just “believing”.  He has a knowledge of God far beyond human comprehension. This is the perfection as believers we should strive to achieve. Yet, because our choice and lack of denial of human pleasure it is difficult to the natural man, it is not common in man that they reach this level of perfection.  This is why, it is important for those who have messed up to lay again the foundation of repentance from dead works and strive for the perfection, “leaving” the principles of doctrine of Christ. Some may be confused as to why Paul writes “leaving the principle of doctrine”.  For clarification the term principle means the beginning, the foundation. Doctrine is a term to describe beliefs that are taught by the church. Paul is describing a behavior beyond the first works. His desire is that we all reach perfection as he has. Once we have come close to perfection then it will be impossible to start over again. We can understand that he is again talking on a higher spiritual level way beyond the first works of repentance and belief in Christ. There are levels in Christ and more shall be revealed as you begin to work in faith.

So now that we’ve established what the end of perfection looks like. How do we get there? What is the foundation of repentance?