LEAVING THE FIRST PRINCIPLES The Mandate "Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ . . . " (NKJV). Other versions translate this verse as follows. " . . . leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ" (KJV). " . . . leaving the elementary teaching about the Christ" (NASB, NIV). " . . . leave the elementary doctrine of Christ" (RSV). " . . . leaving the word of the beginning of the Christ" (Darby's and Young's Literal). Elementary principles, or principles of the doctrine are things designed for new and unlearned spiritual life. These principles are intended to orient the individual for fellowship with Christ (1 Cor 1:9) and being taught by God (John 6:45). I believe Tyndale was correct in his rendering of this verse: "let us leave the doctrine pertaining to the beginning of a Christian life." -- Tomorrow:
"Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits." (Hebrews 6:1-4, NKJV).
Devotion 2 of 24
Spiritual growth requires leaving an emphasis on elementary things. This is a most vital aspect of spiritual life, and is rarely declared in the institutional church. [By Institutional church, I mean the religious body that is able to exist without fellowship with God through Christ, and by the Spirit.]
Let it be clear, there are no elements of sound doctrine that are to be scrapped, abandoned, or discarded from our minds. This text is speaking of a focus, or emphasis. It has to do with lingering in the outer court rather going into the most holy place. Those who remain in the vestibule of beginnings can comfortably stand aloof from God, which posture destroys spiritual life.
Note that these are principles pertaining to Christ, not to certain disciplines of life, or domestic and social responsibilities. Those things, however needful they may be, are even lower than the "elementary principles," for spiritual life is not founded upon them. Those who insist on emphasizing family life, domestic authority, and congregational order, must rise a considerable distance before they are even in the "principles of the doctrine of Christ." If that seems a bit harsh, the Spirit will confirm that none of the "principles" pertain to our interpersonal relationships (verses 1-2).
At this point we confront one of the great deficiencies of the contemporary church. The most favorable view of much religious activity is that it majors on--even remains confined to--the "first principles of the doctrine of Christ." Much, of course, of the activity we see around us has not even come up to these "principles," but is enclosed by the even lower climes of flesh and blood.
There are no acceptable alternatives to this to word from the Lord! There is no provision for a lack of upward movement in the faith life, even though men may be dealing with Bible matters. Stagnation is dangerous in any realm, but especially so in spiritual life.
At this point, it is necessary to say a word about the movement with which I have been associated. I realize I take a certain risk in doing this. This movement has been noted, particularly in recent years, for shallowness and restriction to "first" or "elementary principles." Of course, this most serious deficiency is not confined to this particular movement. I receive a number of religious periodicals, as well as other Christian publications and church newsletters. The fare that is being served up by them, at the very best, falls into the category of "first principles of the doctrine of Christ." By that I mean this is the thrust of their message. It is not conducive to productive thought or spiritual growth. Therefore, it is actually damaging to the faith of those that accept it. There is no neutral teaching.
In "things pertaining to life and godliness," the lack of progression in Christ equates to "drawing back," "falling away," and "denying" Christ before men (Heb 10:38-39; Luke 8:13; Heb 6:6; 2 Thess 2:3; Matt 10:32-33). There is no such thing as a non-growing believer, a spiritual person that is carnal, or a heavenly citizen that is earthly minded. Growth is not only the evidence of life, in Christ it is also essential to the maintenance of spiritual life.
There is no member of Christ that is exempt from this admonition: "Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ . . . " Permit me to explore this statement for a moment. It is staggering how many professed leaders in the Christian community conduct themselves as though they were somehow excluded from this admonition. There are vast areas of professed Christian ministry that are noted for their lack of growth and advance in the Spirit. To mention a few, Youth Ministries, Music Ministries, Senior Citizens Ministries, etc. Throw in Financial Ministries, Singles Ministries, Marriage Consulting, and often, even Pulpit Ministries.
Many of the individuals associated with these activities admit that spiritual depth does not blend with their work. They see it as a threat and counterproductive in their field of professed expertise. However, after we have heard them speak, we must hear what the Spirit is saying! Elementary views will not sustain the soul. That is why we must move on, building upon them. Everyone associated with the ministries mentioned above do not ignore these kingdom realities. We praise the Lord for that holy remnant that see the need for "leaving the first principles." In my judgment, however, such are an exception to the rule imposed on us by the Holy Spirit. The truth of the matter is that those insisting upon remaining in an immature spiritual condition are not suitable for continued Divine employment. Individuals who are not advancing in their apprehension of the Lord are not ministering in any decisive sense for Christ.
Allow me to say it again, in yet a different way. There can be no standing still for the child of God! This thought underlies this entire passage. The gales of temptation and temporality demand aggressive effort on the part of the believer. This effort cannot be made while one insists on continuing in the "first principles." Although shallow religion is fashionable in our day, it is contrary to the nature of the heavenly kingdom. God does not tolerate it, and neither can His people. The mandate from heaven is clear: MOVE ON! If a professed believer refuses to do so, he stands in eternal jeopardy. That is the undeniable thrust of our text.
Spiritual maturity is to characterize every individual aspect of ministry. Our preaching, as well as our singing, is to reflect an acceptable level of advancement in Christ. It would be refreshing if all ministry was noted for spiritual growth. Whether we are ministering to children, homeless, or leaders, there is no place for lingering on the "first principles of the doctrine of Christ." Suffice it so say, the unreserved acceptance of this Kingdom perspective would so revolutionize religious services the difference would be noted by all.
PRAYER POINT: Father, in Jesus' name, help me to build upon the elementary principles of Christ, not treating them as though they were to remain my perpetual focus.