New Testament
Hebrews 5:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Hebrews 5:14, the author contrasts solid food with milk, using these as metaphors for spiritual maturity.
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Solid food is for the mature — for those who have trained themselves through practice to tell the difference between good and evil.
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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Hebrews 5:14, the author contrasts solid food with milk, using these as metaphors for spiritual maturity. Solid food represents deeper, more complex teachings of faith that are suitable for those who have grown in their understanding and practice of God's word. The verse emphasizes that maturity comes from training and experience, where individuals learn to discern right from wrong. This discernment is not just intellectual but involves a practical application of faith in daily life. The ability to distinguish between good and evil is a sign of spiritual growth, indicating that one has moved beyond basic teachings and is now equipped to handle more profound truths. This process of training involves consistent practice and engagement with scripture, leading to a more profound relationship with God and a clearer understanding of His will.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Hebrews 5:14 to your life
To grow spiritually, engage regularly with scripture and apply its teachings in your life. Seek opportunities to practice discernment in everyday situations, asking God for wisdom to recognize good and evil. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of your faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hebrews 5:14 mean?
Hebrews 5:14 means that spiritual maturity is like moving from milk to solid food, where solid food represents deeper teachings of faith. It highlights that maturity comes from practice and experience in discerning good from evil.
What is the meaning of solid food in Hebrews 5:14?
In Hebrews 5:14, solid food symbolizes advanced spiritual teachings that are suitable for mature believers who have developed the ability to discern right from wrong through practice.
How can I apply Hebrews 5:14 in my life?
To apply Hebrews 5:14, regularly engage with scripture and actively practice discernment in your daily decisions. This will help you grow in your understanding of good and evil.
The Book of Hebrews
Hebrews 1: The Son Above the Angels
God, who formerly spoke through the prophets in many ways, has now spoken through His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things and through whom He made the worlds. The Son is the brightness of God's glory and the express image of His person, upholding all things by His power, and after purging sins He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. The writer proves through Scripture that the Son is far greater than the angels: He is called the Son of God, receives worship from the angels, possesses an eternal throne, and laid the foundations of the earth, while angels are ministering spirits sent to serve the heirs of salvation.
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