1. With this in mind, we should stop going over the elementary truths about Christ and move on to topics for more mature people. We shouldn’t repeat the basics about turning away from the useless things we did and the basics about faith in God.
2. We shouldn’t repeat the basic teachings about such things as baptisms, setting people apart for holy tasks, dead people coming back to life, and eternal judgment.
3. If God permits, we will do this.
4. Some people once had God’s light. They experienced the heavenly gift and shared in the Holy Spirit.
5. They experienced the goodness of God’s word and the powers of the world to come.
6. Yet, they have deserted ⌊Christ⌋. They are crucifying the Son of God again and publicly disgracing him. Therefore, they cannot be led a second time to God.
7. God blesses the earth. So rain often falls on it, and it produces useful crops for farmers.
8. However, if the earth produces thorns and thistles, it is worthless and in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
9. Dear friends, even though we say these things, we are still convinced that better things are in store for you and that they will save you.