Principles
The Biblical Concept of Principles
The word "principles" appears in the New Testament in connection with the foundational teachings of the Christian faith. In Hebrews 5:12 and 6:1, the author uses the Greek word "stoicheion" to describe the elementary truths that every believer should learn as a starting point. The term conveys the idea of basic building blocks or first elements, much like the ABCs of a language or the fundamental axioms of a discipline.
Principles in Hebrews
The author of Hebrews expresses frustration that his readers have not progressed beyond the basic principles of God's word. Hebrews 5:12 states: "Though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary principles of God's oracles again. You need milk, not solid food." The passage then identifies several of these basic principles in Hebrews 6:1-2: repentance from dead works, faith toward God, instruction about washings, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
Milk Versus Solid Food
The contrast between milk and solid food in Hebrews 5:12-14 provides a framework for understanding what principles means in this context. Just as infants begin with milk and progress to solid food as they mature, Christians are expected to move from basic principles to deeper theological understanding. The problem was not that the foundational principles were unimportant but that the readers had remained at the elementary level instead of growing into maturity. True spiritual growth means building on these foundations rather than perpetually relaying them.
Stoicheion in Paul's Letters
The same Greek word "stoicheion" appears in Paul's letters with a somewhat different nuance. In Galatians 4:3 and 4:9, Paul speaks of the "elementary principles of the world" from which Christ has set believers free. Colossians 2:8 and 2:20 similarly warn against being captivated by the "elemental principles" of human tradition and philosophy. In Paul's usage, the word can refer to the basic spiritual forces or religious systems that once governed humanity before Christ's coming.
The Call to Maturity
The biblical discussion of principles carries an urgent call to spiritual growth. Hebrews 6:1 commands believers to "leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity." This does not mean abandoning foundational truths but rather building on them. The Christian life is envisioned as a journey from basic faith to deep understanding, from simple obedience to rich theological wisdom. Peter echoes this theme by urging believers to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18).
Biblical Context
Principles appears primarily in Hebrews 5:12 and 6:1, referring to the elementary teachings of the faith. The related Greek word 'stoicheion' also appears in Galatians 4:3, 9 and Colossians 2:8, 20, where it refers to basic spiritual or religious elements from which Christ has freed believers.
Theological Significance
The concept of principles establishes that the Christian faith has identifiable foundational truths that must be learned and then built upon. The call to move beyond principles to maturity reflects the biblical expectation that believers will grow in knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual depth throughout their lives.
Historical Background
The Greek word 'stoicheion' originally referred to the basic elements of the physical world (earth, water, air, fire) in Greek philosophy. Early Christians adopted the term to describe the foundational elements of their faith. The Hebrews passage reflects a catechetical tradition in the early church where new converts received instruction in basic doctrines.