Reflections on Hebrews 5:14 (ESV)
"But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil."
#1 Maturity is the ability of discernment to differentiate good and evil.
- Maturity in the Christian faith is not merely about age or experience but about spiritual growth and the ability to make godly decisions.
- Discernment—the ability to distinguish between good and evil—is a hallmark of maturity because it reflects a deep understanding of God's will and the capacity to apply it in complex situations.
- The Bible often contrasts spiritual infancy with maturity (e.g., 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, Ephesians 4:14-15). Mature believers are those who have moved beyond basic teachings and are able to handle the "solid food" of deeper spiritual truths.
#2 Discernment is attained by constant practice.
Discernment is not innate; it is developed over time through intentional effort, much like physical training strengthens the body. This "constant practice" involves:
a. Learning from faithful and wise mentors: Proverbs 13:20 says, "Walk with the wise and become wise." Surrounding ourselves with godly examples helps us grow in discernment.
b. Reflecting on our experiences: Life is a teacher, and both successes and failures provide opportunities to learn. Psalm 119:71 reminds us, "It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees."
c. Seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is our ultimate guide (John 16:13). Through prayer and meditation on Scripture, we align our hearts with God's wisdom. As James 1:5 (NIV) says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
Many actions are not immediately obvious as right or wrong. We must look beyond surface-level and into motivations (which are often hidden) and consider long-term consequences (which may not be immediately apparent). The way to develop discernment is to ground ourselves in the teachings and laws of the Bible, learning from both Scripture and life experiences.
#3 Wisdom, a key attribute, is higher than knowledge.
- Wisdom is the practical application of knowledge. It involves not just knowing what is right but doing it at the right time, in the right way, for the right reasons, to and for the right people. Proverbs 4:7 emphasizes, "The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding."
- Wisdom considers long-term consequences, not just immediate outcomes. This is why discernment is so crucial—it helps us see beyond the surface and evaluate actions based on eternal principles.
#4 Solid Food is then Wisdom—Discernment of Right and Wrong, Good and Evil.
- The "solid food" mentioned in Hebrews 5:14 refers to the deeper truths of Scripture and the ability to apply them in life. It is contrasted with "milk," which represents basic teachings for new believers (Hebrews 5:12-13). Solid food is for those who have matured in their faith and can handle complex spiritual concepts. This includes understanding the nuances of good and evil, which often require wisdom to navigate. For example, something may seem good on the surface but have harmful long-term effects, or vice versa.
- An Example of Solid Food: Romans 14
- A practical example of "solid food" is found in Romans 14, where Paul addresses the issue of disputable matters—such as eating certain foods or observing special days. While some believers may have the freedom to eat all foods (Romans 14:2), others with weaker consciences may abstain. Paul instructs mature believers to forego their freedom out of love for their brothers and sisters, so as not to cause them to stumble (Romans 14:13-15).
- This requires deep discernment:
- Understanding the issue: Recognizing that eating or not eating certain foods is not inherently sinful (Romans 14:14).
- Considering the impact: Evaluating how exercising personal freedom might harm a fellow believer’s conscience or faith (Romans 14:15).
- Acting in love: Choosing to limit one’s freedom for the sake of unity and the spiritual well-being of others (Romans 14:19-21).
- This is a mature, discerning response that goes beyond the "milk" of basic rules and regulations. It reflects the wisdom of prioritizing love and unity over personal rights—a hallmark of spiritual maturity.
#5 Scripture is Essential for Discernment and the Danger of Immaturity
- The Bible is essential for developing discernment. Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as "living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword," able to judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Regular study of Scripture trains us to think like God and recognize His truth.
- Immature believers, on the other hand, are susceptible to deception and false teachings (Ephesians 4:14). This is why growth in discernment is vital for spiritual health and effectiveness.
#6 The Goal of Maturity is Christ-likeness
- The ultimate goal of maturity is to become more like Christ, who perfectly discerned the will of His Father (John 5:19). As we grow in wisdom and discernment, we reflect His character and bring glory to God. Maturity is not an end in itself but a means to live a life that honors God and impacts others for His kingdom.
- A practical example of "solid food" is found in Romans 14, where Paul addresses the issue of disputable matters—such as eating certain foods or observing special days. While some believers may have the freedom to eat all foods (Romans 14:2), others with weaker consciences may abstain. Paul instructs mature believers to forego their freedom out of love for their brothers and sisters, so as not to cause them to stumble (Romans 14:13-15).
- This requires deep discernment:
- Understanding the issue: Recognizing that eating or not eating certain foods is not inherently sinful (Romans 14:14).
- Considering the impact: Evaluating how exercising personal freedom might harm a fellow believer’s conscience or faith (Romans 14:15).
- Acting in love: Choosing to limit one’s freedom for the sake of unity and the spiritual well-being of others (Romans 14:19-21).
- This is a mature, discerning response that goes beyond the "milk" of basic rules and regulations. It reflects the wisdom of prioritizing love and unity over personal rights—a hallmark of spiritual maturity.
#7. Learning is done through stages, and there is no shortcut.
- Spiritual growth is a gradual process that requires patience, perseverance, and faithfulness.
- Just as a child grows step by step, believers must progress through stages of learning, from milk to solid food (1 Corinthians 3:2; Hebrews 5:12-14).
- There are no shortcuts to maturity; it requires time, effort, and reliance on God’s timing and grace.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
- We ask for Your wisdom and discernment. Train us through Your Word and help us grow from spiritual infancy to maturity. Teach us to distinguish good from evil and to apply Your truth in every situation.
- Help us prioritize love over personal freedoms, considering the impact of our actions on others. Holy Spirit, guide us in all truth and shape us to reflect Christ’s character.
- Thank You for Your living Word, which equips us for every good work. May we bring glory to Your name as we grow in wisdom and discernment, step by step, in Your perfect timing.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
See also Devotion on 2 Cor 3:18, Eph 4:13, Col 3:10- Christ-Likeness, the Measure of Our Maturity.
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