Therefore let us move beyondy the elementary teachingsz about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death,a a and of faith in God, 2 instruction about cleansing rites,b b the laying on of hands,c the resurrection of the dead,d and eternal judgment. 3 And God permitting,e we will do so.

4 It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened,f who have tasted the heavenly gift,g who have shared in the Holy Spirit,h 5 who have tasted the goodnessi of the word of Godj and the powers of the coming age 6 and who have fallenc away, to be brought back to repentance.k To their loss they are crucifying the Son of Godl all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. 7 Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. 8 But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed.m In the end it will be burned.

9 Even though we speak like this, dear friends,n we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. 10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.o 11 We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hopep for may be fully realized. 12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitateq those who through faith and patiencer inherit what has been promised.s