Hebrews 5:11

“Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.”

Context:This verse is a part of a larger passage in the book of Hebrews where the author is addressing a group of Jewish Christians.

The author is explaining the deep theological truths about the priesthood of Jesus Christ and the significance of His role as our High Priest. In the preceding verses, the author introduces Jesus as a high priest after the order of Melchizedek and expresses a desire to go deeper into these teachings. However, in verse 11, the author expresses some frustration with the readers’ spiritual maturity, stating that they have become “dull of hearing.”

To understand the context and significance of this verse, it’s helpful to explore the surrounding verses as well. Let’s examine Hebrews 5:11-14 (KJV):

“11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.:13 For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.

But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”:In these verses, the author rebukes the readers for their lack of spiritual progress. Instead of being mature enough to teach others, they still require basic instruction in the fundamental principles of God’s Word.

The author uses the analogy of milk and solid food to illustrate the readers’ spiritual immaturity. Just as babies need milk as their primary source of nourishment, the readers are like spiritual infants who can only handle basic teachings. They have not progressed to the point where they can grasp the deeper, more profound truths about Christ and His priesthood.

The phrase “hard to be uttered” in verse 11 implies that the author desires to share more profound spiritual insights, but the readers’ lack of spiritual growth hinders this. The author wants to delve into the deeper aspects of the Christian faith, but due to their dullness of hearing, he finds it challenging to communicate these truths effectively.

This passage serves as both an exhortation and a warning. The readers are urged to progress in their spiritual journey, to move beyond the elementary teachings and mature in their understanding of God’s Word. By doing so, they will become equipped to teach others and discern good from evil.

In summary, Hebrews 5:11 (KJV) highlights the readers’ spiritual immaturity and their need to progress beyond the basic teachings of Christianity. It serves as a call to grow in faith and knowledge, enabling believers to delve into the deeper truths of God’s Word and develop the ability to teach others and discern between good and evil.