Hebrews 6:18

Thus by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged.

Berean Standard Bible

Follow its threads on the canvas →

Study note

Setting — The author addresses believers who have fled to God for refuge, immediately following his note that God used an oath to confirm His purpose (Hebrews 6:17).

The words — ἀμεταθέτων (ametathetōn) translates literally as unchangeable, and ἀδύνατον (adunaton) translates as impossible. The verse identifies two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie.

The thread — The text’s assertion that God cannot lie runs through Titus 1:2, while Numbers 23:19 and 1 Samuel 15:29 explicitly pair His inability to lie with His refusal to change His mind.

Why it lands — The passage requires the reader to ground their encouragement in the factual certainty of God’s word rather than in fluctuating circumstances.

Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.

The Greek words

King James Version

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

Cross-references

Numbers 23:19 God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?
Titus 1:2 in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.
1 Samuel 15:29 Moreover, the Glory of Israel does not lie or change His mind, for He is not a man, that He should change His mind.”
2 Timothy 2:13 if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.
Romans 3:4 Certainly not! Let God be true and every man a liar. As it is written: “So that You may be proved right when You speak and victorious when You judge.”
Psalms 46:1 For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.
Joshua 20:3 so that anyone who kills another unintentionally or accidentally may flee there. These will be your refuge from the avenger of blood.
Isaiah 32:1 Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule with justice.
Isaiah 51:12 “I, even I, am He who comforts you. Why should you be afraid of mortal man, of a son of man who withers like grass?
1 John 1:10 If we say we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar, and His word is not in us.