Hebrews 5:14 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 5:14 mean?

Hebrews 5:14 says that mature believers are able to handle deeper spiritual truths (“strong meat”) because they have trained themselves, through practice, to recognize the difference between good and evil. This maturity comes from experience and consistent use, not just from knowing basic teachings.

The writer of Hebrews is addressing Christians who are being encouraged to grow beyond the basics of their faith. The verse uses the image of food to show the difference between spiritual “milk” for the inexperienced and “meat” for those who are spiritually mature. The focus is on the need for practice and discernment, showing that spiritual growth involves both learning and real-life application.

The Greek behind Hebrews 5:14

• "Strong" (στερεός, stereos): This word means solid or firm, and here it refers to more substantial or advanced spiritual teaching, compared to “milk” for beginners.
• "Use" (ἕξις, hexis): This word is about repeated practice or habit. The verse highlights that discernment comes from regular, ongoing practice, not just a one-time effort.
• "Senses" (αἰσθητήρια, aisthētēria): This refers to the faculties or abilities to perceive and judge. In this context, it means the inner capacity to distinguish right from wrong, developed over time.
• "Discern" (διάκρισις, diakrisis): This means to separate or distinguish. The verse emphasizes that mature believers can clearly tell the difference between good and evil because they have trained themselves.

Why Hebrews 5:14 matters

• Hebrews 5:14 clears up the idea that spiritual maturity is automatic or just about knowing facts; it stresses that maturity comes from practice and experience.
• The verse highlights the importance of discernment in the Christian life, showing that recognizing good and evil is a skill developed over time.
• In the wider passage, this verse sets up the call for believers to move beyond basic teachings and strive for deeper understanding and growth.