The writer of Hebrews says to his readers, “By this time you ought to be teachers” (Hebrews 5:12). These are strong, bold words. Who exactly is the writer addressing here? In short, who is he rebuking? The book of Hebrews shows us he is speaking to believers who have been well-schooled in biblical truth. In other words, those reading this letter had sat under powerful preaching by many anointed ministers. Consider all that these Christians had been taught:
- They knew about Jesus’ high priesthood and his intercession for them at God’s throne.
- They knew of Jesus’s invitation to come boldly before the throne to find mercy and grace in their time of need.
- They had been taught that a supernatural rest was available to them.
- They knew the Lord was touched with the feelings of their infirmities.
- They knew Christ had been tempted in all points as they were, yet he remained without sin.
- They had been exhorted, “Hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end” (3:6).
- They had received clear warning of how unbelief grieves the Holy Spirit: “Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God” (3:12).
All this is found in the first four chapters of Hebrews and now, in chapter 5, the writer addresses those gathered: “After all this sound teaching, you are still dull of hearing and need someone to teach you.”
Does this apply to you? Think of all that has been learned by this present generation of Christians. How many sermons have we heard that challenge us to trust the Lord in all things? How many times have we heard God’s incredible promises preached? And yet, how often are we quickly deflated when a trial comes?
Dearly beloved, what is your life saying to those around you? How does the book of your life read? Are you a teacher in hard times, ministering to others by your example? It is impossible to keep faith without boldly going to the throne in prayer for all you need. I urge you to go to the Lord daily for all the mercy you need. He is calling you forth as one of his teachers!