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.