What does Hebrews 6:11 mean?

Scripture is clear that we cannot earn our salvation by good works (Titus 3:5; Romans 11:6), but we are called on to pursue them (Matthew 5:16; Hebrews 10:24; James 3:13). Likewise, we cannot lose our salvation (John 10:28–30), but we are still warned against the dangers of "falling away" into doubt or disobedience (Hebrews 6:1–8). In verses 11 and 12, we see yet another example where believers are encouraged to seek a full, mature, purposeful faith in Christ, so that they can experience all of the hope and confidence we are promised (Hebrews 11:32–34; Galatians 6:9; Ephesians 4:13–15).

The intent is not for us to pay for our own redemption, or avoid losing it. Rather, verses such as this are about how we, as fallible people, perceive our own faith. Growing in service, like growing in truth, provides us with a reassuring proof that we're following the will of God.

Verse 10 also anchors this reassurance to the character of God. Since God is absolutely fair—or "just"—there is no doubt that He will recognize the good deeds and hard work of His people. This reminder sets up the theme of the last verses in chapter 6: that our trust in God is secure because He is unchanging and incapable of lying.