Diligence to the Full Assurance of Hope

After hearing why the word should be taught with boldness instead of only considering the foundational doctrines of the faith for it will either produce righteousness or it will produce rebellion, the writer of Hebrews now encourages the people. For a few chapters, he has been warning them about not finding their rest in Christ, but now he encourages them by saying that he is confident that most will produce good fruit. He has seen their testimony of love and faithfulness toward God and their care for those who are called by His name. While the church is fruitful in general, it is also important that each one shows that diligence. The work that the church that we attend is not testimony of our faith. Only our work is testimony of our faith, so each needs to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. Hebrews makes it clear through the picture of Abraham that working good works is how we know that we inherit the promises. The modern church wants to base assurance on profession. The Scriptures base assurance on perseverance in good works.