“For it is impossible in the case of those who have once been enlightened, tasted the heavenly gift, become partakers of the Holy Spirit, tasted the good word of God and the miracles of the coming age, and then have committed apostasy, to renew them again to repentance, since they are crucifying the Son of God for themselves all over again and holding him up to contempt.” (Heb 6:4–6 NET)
This passages is a rich source for theological controversy and exegetical exploration, but I’m going to focus on only one word from verse four: partakers, or in Greek, μέτοχος. One tiny piece of the puzzle in regards to this passage is whether “partakers of the Holy Spirit” is describing a saved, regenerate person, or whether it could be describing a non-Christian who is merely the recipient of some benefits associated with the Holy Spirit. (more…)