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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,
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of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
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And this we will do if God permits.
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For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit,
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and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come,
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if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame.
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For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God;
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but if it bears thorns and briars, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned.
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But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we speak in this manner.