O, My Dull of Hearing

...of whom we have much to say, and hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. (Heb 5:11)

Yes, it is hard to explain something to one who is dull of hearing. Not to be confused with the more recent slang 'hard of hearing', this was not a comment on their ability to hear words but the Hebrews lack of understanding in more mature spiritual concepts. Nor was this a slap on their intelligence, for the people who received this letter were by no means stupid. This was similar to what Jesus quoted from the Old Testament prophet: they were listening, but not hearing; reading but not understanding the Word as it was told to them. (Jesus of course quoted it correctly, I am paraphrasing a bit from my poor human memory.) And it was not always this way as the verse contains a 'have become'.

Any Christian or congregation might face a time when hearing of the word becomes dull. Sermons are coming but understanding is lacking. Messages and Bible study are partaken of, but nothing is gained. Is it permanent? If you are questioning, then I would say that the Spirit is at work and, no, the condition is not permanent. Who is in danger? Not the minister who wonders why his words cannot break through the apathy any longer. No, and not the person among the church who wonders why his faith seems flat and dull lately. Nope, the one in danger is that fellow who looks around, exits the front door and goes out to the car after the message, looks over at the wife and says,

"Did you hear that, Betty? The preacher thinks all those other guys can't hear him anymore."

Watch out for and give a prayer for those dull of hearing who do not hear the Word calling directly in their dulled ears.

And for those of you with the clear hearing of the Spirit in your hearts: Jesus loves you with a special love today!

Bucky