Back to the Basics - Part 1 (Audio, MP3 download)

Being a disciple of Yeshua, one of our primary responsibilities is in regard to memorization. We are to memorize, properly interpret and transmit his teachings. However, in order to properly interpret his teachings, we must have the proper filter and foundation with which to interpret his instructions. There are some basic assumptions Yeshua and his apostles make when they give instructions. They assume we have a fundamental understanding of the Hebrew Scriptures, along with a sense of cohesion as to how these relate to our life in Messiah. Some of the very basics of these assumptions are found in the book of Hebrews.

"Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment." (Hebrews 6:1–2)

In the sixth chapter of the book of Hebrews we have listed for us six foundational principles with which every disciple of Yeshua should be well familiar. The author speaks of these principles collectively as the "elementary doctrine of Christ."

Part 1 covers the first of these, "Repentance from Dead Works." What is repentance? What are "dead works?" Are they as simple and straight-forward as what we have thought? Jesus taught, "Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!" Yet many today say that repentance is a "work" and therefore not needed. Furthermore, most Christians do not even understand the definition of repentance. We have replaced true repentance with shallow substitutes. Even more frightening is a majority of Believers believe and teach that the "dead works" referred to by the author of Hebrews is the Law — God's standard of righteousness. Have we gotten it all backwards? So let us take time to understand these six things which comprise the “elementary doctrine of Christ” as found in the book of Hebrews in order begin rebuilding a proper and firm foundation for discipleship to our Master.

Join me in "Back to the Basics - Part 1" as I walk us through this fundamental truth which all Believers should understand, but most do not.