Albert Barnes Commentary Hebrews 6:12

"that ye be not sluggish, but imitators of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises." — Hebrews 6:12 (ASV)

That you be not slothful. Indolent; inactive. This was what he was especially desirous of guarding them against. By diligent and strenuous effort only could they secure themselves from the danger of apostasy.

But followers. Imitators—that you may live as they lived.

Of them who through faith and patience. By faith, or confidence in God, and by patience in suffering—referring to those who in times of trial had remained faithful to God, and had been admitted to heaven. In Hebrews 11 the apostle has given a long list of such persevering and faithful friends of God. See Notes on that chapter.

The promise. The promise of heaven.