Hebrews 6:18

Two immutable things. That is, God’s promise and His oath. God’s word in itself is unchangeable. No oath can add anything to what God has said, or make it surer. That God confirmed it with an oath is entirely for our sake. Men use an oath for confirmation, and so God condescends to do the same, to help us in our faith. This oath was doubtless a definite help to the people living before Christ. If any doubt should come up in their minds, they could fall back on the fact that not only had God promised but He had confirmed it with an oath. He would therefore surely keep His word. Thus the oath would help strengthen their faith.

Strong consolation. Rather, “strong encouragement.”

Fled for refuge. The illustration may be taken from the ancient practice of a person who, believing himself to be in danger, fled to the tabernacle as a place of refuge (see Ex. 21:13, 14; 1 Kings 2:28-34).

To lay hold. Or, “to seize.” The phrase should be connected with “consolation” (encouragement).

Hope. See on Rom. 5:4; 8:24; 12:12.

Set before us. Or, “lying, before us.” The hope of salvation is set before all and may be grasped by all.