Hebrews, Chapter 13

 

Hebrews 13     What are we to let continue? vs. 1 What are we not to neglect and why? vs. 2 Have you ever had an encounter that you thought might be an angel? Would you like to share it with us? How are we to remember the prisoners? vs. 3 Why should we relate to those who are ill-treated? vs. 3 Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled. What will happen to all fornicators and adulterers? vs. 4 What are we to make sure our character is free from? vs. 5 Why should we be content with what we have? vs. 5 What can we confidently say? vs. 6 Who are we to remember ... and as we consider the result of their conduct (literally 'the end of their life') -... what are we to imitate? vs. 7 Fill in the blanks: "Jesus Christ is the same _____, & _____ & _____." (vs. 8 ) What are we not to be carried away with? vs. 9 What is good for the heart? vs. 9 Note: We gather at the altar of grace, but those who are occupied with regulations concerning food, etc. do not have a right to eat at our table without access through Christ. (vs.9,10) What happened to the bodies of the animals who had their blood taken into the holy place by the high priest each year as an offering for sin? vs. 11 Jesus also suffered "outside" the gate through His own blood to sanctify the people. (vs.12). Where does the author of Hebrews encourage us to go to identify with Christ and for what reason? vs. 13 Like Abraham in chapter 11, we also do not have a lasting city here. What city are we seeking? vs. 14 What are we to continually offer up as a sacrifice of praise to God through Jesus, our High Priest? vs. 15 What sacrifices is God pleased with? vs.16 - Name 2 things Why should we obey our spiritual leaders and submit to them? vs. 17 ... How can we get the most benefit from this? .... What did the author of Hebrews and his companions feel sure about? vs. 18 What did the author of Hebrews request from them? vs.18 What did he urge the Hebrews to do as well and for what reason? vs. 19 In verse 20, what is God called? _____ What is Jesus called? ______ What was brought to us through the blood of Jesus? _________ What does God equip us in every good thing "to do"? vs. 21 The author says this is a brief exhortation. (vs.22). He is talking about the entire letter we have studied in 13 chapters. What do you think? lol What are we told about Timothy and how that effects the author of Hebrews in regard to seeing them soon? vs. 23 They are told to greet all their leaders and all the saints (vs.24). Where is the author of Hebrews when he sends this greeting to them? vs. 24 What is the final blessing that the author gives to the Hebrews? vs. 25 As the letter began with grace, and ends with grace, even with us being told that it is good for our hearts to be "strengthened in grace" (vs.9)....it would be good for us to look up the meaning of grace again. How can you strengthen your heart in grace today? Summarize the chapter and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

Hebrews, Chapter 12

Hebrews 12     What are we to lay aside that entangles us in the Christian race? vs. 1 - Name 2 things How are we to run the race that is set before us? vs. 1 Who are we to fix (or focus) our eyes upon and what does He do for us? vs. 2 What helped Jesus to endure the cross even though He despised the shame? vs. 2 Where is Jesus at now? vs. 2 What are we to consider about Jesus to help us not grow weary and lose heart in our faith? vs. 3 How does our striving against sin compare to how Jesus resisted sin? vs. 4 When we are disciplined by the Lord as His own child, what are we to remember? vs. 5,6 Our earthly fathers disciplined us the best they could. Why does our Heavenly Father discipline us? vs.7-10 - Name 2 things from vs.10 All discipline for the moment is not joyful, but sorrowful (vs.11)... Yet, what peaceful fruit does it yield to those who have been trained by it? vs. 11 The writer of Hebrews now tells us how to be trained in righteousness and to resist sin. What are the things he tells us to do in verses 12 & 13? Name 3 things What is the purpose of doing these things? vs. 13 What 2 things must we do in order to see the Lord? vs. 14 We are to make sure no one comes short of the grace of God. What can happen when people do not have God's grace or the understanding of it in their lives? vs.15 - Name 3 things What else are we to make sure of as far as it depends on us? vs. 16 - Name 2 things Note: In regard to verse 17, you can read about Esau selling his birthright and how he sought to inherit the blessing with tears in Genesis 25:25-34; 27:1-45. Comment on how this compares to having a root of bitterness if you would like to. In the Old Testament, they experienced God on the mountain in all His holiness when Moses went up to receive the commandments of God. How does the writer of Hebrews describe the experience the people had of God's holy presence at that time? vs.18-21 - Name 9 things (Note: If you want to read about these accounts, see Exodus 19:12,16; 20:18 and Deuteronomy 4:11; 5:22) Under the New Covenant of Grace in Christ Jesus, what is Mount Zion like for us? vs.22-24 - Name 8 things given Just as God warned those on earth who did not escape when they refused Moses when he warned them, we need to know that we will not escape if we turn away from Him who warns from heaven. (vs.25) ... His voice shook the earth at that time, what will His voice shake in days to come? vs.26 - Name 2 things What will be removed through this time of shaking? vs. 27 What will happen to those things that cannot be shaken? vs.27 What kind of kingdom do we belong to in Christ? vs. 28 How should we respond to this fact? vs. 28,29 Why should we be in reverence and awe of our God? vs. 29 Note: The author of Hebrews is confident that the kingdom of God that comes through faith in Jesus cannot be shaken. A life of thanks is acceptable worship with reverence and awe. If we live such thankful, worshipful lives of confidence in the kingdom there is no way we could refuse to stay true to Christ. Thus the author's final exhortation again appeals his readers to remain faithful; to endure hardships for Christ, and to never give up their commitment to the Lordship of Jesus. Thinking on today's lesson of running the race, laying aside the sin that so easily entangles us, accepting the discipline of the Lord as His love for us, and being thankful that we belong to a kingdom that cannot be shaken, what can you be specific in thanksgiving for today? How has He helped you in recent temptations or disciplined you in a way that brought strength and healing to your life? Summarize the chapter and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews, Chapter 11

Hebrews 11     What is faith? vs. 1 How were the men of old approved by God? vs. 1,2 How do we understand God's creation of the world? vs.3 What kind of things made the things we now see? vs. 3 What did Abel do "by faith"? vs. 4 How does Abel still speak to us today? vs. 4 What did Enoch do "by faith"? vs. 5 What witness did Enoch receive from God before he was taken up? vs. 5 What must we have in order to please God? vs. 6 What two things must we believe by faith about God? vs. 6 - Name 2 things What did Noah do "by faith" after he was warned by God about things "not yet seen"? vs. 7 What did Noah become by his faith? vs. 7 What did Abraham do "by faith" when he was called by God? vs. 8 Did Abraham know where he was going when he obeyed? vs. 8 How did Abraham live "by faith" in the foreign land that God gave to him as a promise? vs.9 Who were fellow heirs of the same promise that dwelt in tents with Abraham? vs.9 Note: Isaac was his son and Jacob was his grandson. Many times we see the phrase "The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob". As Abraham dwelt in tents, what was he looking for "by faith"? vs.10 What did Sarah, Abraham's wife, receive "by faith", even beyond the proper time of life? vs. 11 What did Sarah consider in her "faith"? vs. 11 What came forth from Abraham and Sarah's descendant because of their "faith" and God keeping what He had promised them? vs. 12 Although the saints of old died without receiving the promises, they welcomed them from a distance, seeking a country of their own, being exiles on the earth. They had opportunity to return to the country they came from, but what did they choose instead "by faith"? vs.13-16 God is honored to be called their God because of their faith. What has He prepared for them? vs. 16 What did Abraham do when he was tested by God? vs. 17 What had God promised to do through Isaac who He was now asking Abraham to offer up as a burnt offering? vs. 18 Take time to read Genesis chapter 22 to fully understand when Abraham went through this test. According to Hebrews 11:19, what did Abraham believe, even if he was required to slay his only son, Isaac? What did Isaac do "by faith" for his sons, Jacob and Esau? vs. 20 What did Jacob do "by faith" even as he was dying? vs. 21 What did Joseph do "by faith" when he was dying? vs. 22 What did the parents of Moses do "by faith" when he was born, a beautiful child, under the edict of the king that all baby boys be killed? vs. 23 Note: For this account, you can read Exodus 1:16,22 and Exodus 2:1-10 When Moses had grown up, what did he refuse to be called "by faith"? vs. 24 "By faith", what did Moses choose rather than the passing pleasures of sin? vs. 25 "By faith", what did Moses consider the reproach of Christ to be? vs. 26 "By faith", what was Moses looking to? vs. 26 "By faith", Moses left Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king. How did Moses endure in his faith? vs. 27 How do you endure by "your faith" in the same way as Moses did? Read 1 Peter 1:6-9 and write it out here: "By Faith", Moses kept the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood, so that he who destroyed the firstborn would not touch them. (vs.28 ) - Read about the Passover in Exodus 12:21-29. What caused the Lord to "passover" the houses of Israel? Exodus 12:23 "By faith", Moses led the children of Israel through the Red Sea on dry land. What happened to the Egyptians when they tried to cross over? vs.29 Note: Read this account in Exodus 14:22-29 Under the leadership of Joshua, what happened to the walls of Jericho "by faith"? vs.30 Note: Read this account in Joshua 6:15-20 "By faith", Rahab the harlot did not perish along with those who were disobedient. What did she do that God honored her for? vs.31 Note: Read this account in Joshua 2:1-14 & Joshua 6:22-25 What "people of faith" does the writer of Hebrews wish he had more time to tell us about? vs.32 - Name 7 given. What acts did these "people of faith" perform? vs.33-35a - Name 10 Things What did others endure so that they may obtain a better resurrection? vs.35 ...What do you think that means? What did others experience "by faith"? vs.35b - 38 - Name 13 things How does the writer of Hebrews feel toward these people "of faith"? vs.37 How did all of these people gain approval unto God? vs. 39 Why did these Old Testament saints not receive yet what had been promised them at that time? vs.39-40 What had happened in the time of the writing of Hebrews that made believers "perfect"? What have we learned from Hebrews chapters 8-10 about being "perfected" through Jesus, our High Priest? Are you inspired by these heroes of "faith" today? How will reading this chapter effect your life from now on? Write your summary and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews, Chapter 10

Hebrews 10     What was the Law only a "shadow" of? vs. 1 The Law was "not" the very form of things. What could it never be able to do? vs.1 If the Law "could" have made the worshipers "perfect", what would they no longer have had a consciousness of? vs. 2 What would have ceased if it had been "perfect? vs. 2 What did the yearly sacrifices remind the people of? vs. 3 What is impossible according to verse 4? Therefore, when Jesus came into the world, He said to His Father, "You do not desire sacrifice and offering from Me, but a body You have prepared for Me." (vs.5) ... What did the Lord not take pleasure in? vs. 5 As the scroll had predicted of Jesus, what had He come to do? vs. 6 Remember how He struggled with the will of the Father? How many times did He ask that if possible the cup be removed from Him before He said "Not My will, but Thy will be done." ? See Matthew 26:39-46. Why does the Lord not take pleasure in the sacrifices and burnt offerings? vs.8 When Christ came to do the "will of the Father", what did He take away in order to establish the second? vs.9 How are we now sanctified and how often does it happen? vs.10 As far as the earthly priests go, they would "stand" daily and make the same sacrifices time after time. Would these sacrifices ever take away the sins of the people? vs. 11 In contrast, Jesus, made the one sacrifice of Himself on the cross. As our High Priest in heaven, he is not "standing". Where is He sitting and what is He waiting for? vs.12 What did Jesus accomplish with His one offering of Himself? vs. 14 The Holy Spirit testifies to the New Covenant that God would make with His people. Where would God write His laws? Write 2 places. vs.16 What would God do concerning our sins and lawless deeds? vs. 16 Once sins are forgiven, is there a need for any other sacrifice to be made? vs. 18 How do we have confidence to enter the holy place today? vs. 19 How did Jesus inaugurate the new and living way for us to enter the holy place? vs. 20 Because we have a great high priest over the house of God, how are we to draw near to God? vs. 22 - Name 4 things Why can we continue to have hope without wavering? vs.23 We are to consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. How can we do this? vs.24,25 - Name 2 things Note: In interpreting the next section of verses, we need to remember this has been written to the Hebrews (Jews). Some of them want to remain under the Jewish laws and not accept Jesus as the Messiah and the only sacrifice they need for salvation. What are the consequences of a person who has received the knowledge of the truth, but have decided to regard the blood of Jesus as unclean, and have trampled under foot the Son of God, insulting the Spirit of Grace that's been presented to them? vs.26-31 The author of Hebrews is reminding them that they have already endured a great amount of suffering because they have shared in the reproach of identification with Christ among the Jews. (vs.32,22)...Why does he say they showed sympathy to prisoners and accepted joyfully the seizure of their properties? vs. 34 The author of Hebrews is encouraging them not to throw away their confidence because there is a great reward still to come. (vs.35) What does he say they need to have so they will receive what has been promised to them? vs. 36 The author of Hebrews quotes the prophet Habakkuk which can be found in Habakkuk 2:3,4 - "The promise that the righteous one will live by faith". (vs.37,38 )....The Lord would not have pleasure in one that would shrink back, .... but what does the author of Hebrews say the true believers are not a part of? vs.39 What encouraging note do we have in the very last statement of this chapter? What happens to the soul of those who have faith? vs.39 As a believer in Christ, we have the confidence to enter the Holy Place through faith in Him. We are not of those who would shrink away from Him, but we desire to draw near to Him through His grace. How will you draw near to Him today? What is your prayer? Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews, Chapter 9

 

Hebrews 9     What did the 1st covenant have? vs. 1 - Name 2 things The outer tabernacle was prepared. What was there? vs. 2 - Name 3 things. What was this outer tabernacle called? vs. 2 What was the tabernacle behind the second veil called? vs.3 What was inside the inner tabernacle behind the veil? vs. 4a - Name 2 things What was the ark of the covenant covered with? vs. 4 What were the 3 things inside the ark of the covenant? vs. 4 What were above the ark of the covenant? vs. 5 The author cannot speak of these things in detail. When these things were prepared, what were the priests doing continually in the outer tabernacle? vs. 6 Who was the only person who ever entered the second tabernacle called the Holy of Holies where the ark of the covenant was? vs. 7 How often did the high priest enter the holy of holies (the inner tabernacle behind the veil) ? vs. 7 What had to be shed first and taken with him for his own sins and the people's sin committed in ignorance? vs. 7 What is the Holy Spirit telling us by this requirement when the first tabernacle was still standing? vs. 8 What were the gifts and sacrifices of that time not able to do for the one worshipping? vs. 9 What did the gifts and sacrifices related to at that time? vs. 10 - Name 3 things How long were these rituals imposed upon the people? vs. 10b What tabernacle did Christ enter when He appeared as a High Priest of the good things to come? vs. 11 Rather than the blood of animals, what blood did Christ enter through? vs. 12 How many times did Christ need to enter and what did He accomplish? vs. 12 What was the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled for? vs.13 What has the blood of Christ done for us? vs.14 What is Jesus the mediator of? vs.15 How has redemption been accomplished and what does it guarantee us? vs. 15 A covenant is only valid after the person has died. (vs.16,17) What death happened to cause the first covenant to be valid? vs.18-21 What is required for forgiveness to take place? vs.22 It was necessary for the "copies" of the things in the heavens to be cleansed with the blood of the animals, but the "heavenly things themselves" were by even better sacrifices than these (vs.23) Christ did not enter a tabernacle made by hands which was a "copy" of the true one. Where did He enter and where does He appear right now for us ?? vs.24 Christ would not offer Himself often as the high priest that entered year after year with blood that was not his own. (vs.25) If that were the case, Jesus would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world. (vs.26)...What did Jesus do at one time in HIStory at the consummation of the ages? vs. 26 It is appointed for man to die once and after that, what happens? vs. 27 Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many (vs.28 ). The second time He appears will not be for sin, but for salvation. Who will His 2nd appearance be for? vs. 28 In thinking about the second coming of Jesus, are you eagerly awaiting that time? How great is it that Jesus is appearing before the Father in heaven as our High Priest this very hour? Summarize this chapter and post a prayer if you like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

Hebrews Chapter 8

 

Hebrews 8     Where is our high priest right now? vs. 1 Where is our high priest ministering right now? vs. 2 What did the earthly priests offer up under the Law? vs. 3 - Name 2 things Why would our high priest not be a priest at all if He were on earth now? vs. 4 What were the earthly priests a copy or shadow of? vs.5 Who gave Moses the pattern to follow for the tabernacle he built in the wilderness? What was it a copy of? vs.5 What has Jesus, our High Priest, obtained now that He is in the heavens? vs.6a What is Jesus the mediator of? vs.6b What has the new covenant been enacted on? vs.6c Why was there a need for a "new" covenant? vs.7 God promised in the Old Testament that days were coming when there would be a new covenant that would not be like the old covenant Moses gave to their fathers in the wilderness. How did that covenant have fault in it? vs.9 What would be different about the New Covenant that God would make with Israel in the last days (as we know to be after Jesus was crucified and risen)? vs. 10,11 Under the New Covenant through faith in Jesus, how would God show His mercy toward them (toward us)? vs. 12 When the New Covenant comes in, what happens to the first covenant under the Law of Moses? vs. 13 Summarize your thoughts today and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

Hebrews Chapter 7

Hebrews 7     What are we told concerning Melchizedek. Where was he king and who was he a priest to? vs. 1 When Melchizedek met Abraham in Genesis 14:18-20, Abraham gave him a tenth of the spoils. Who was Melchizedek by the translation of his name? Heb.7:2 What does King of Salem mean? vs. 2 What 5 things was Melchizedek "without" according to verse 3? Who was Melchizedek like and how long would he rule as a priest? vs. 3 How great Abraham show his greatness? vs. 4 What were the priests of Levi (descendants of Abraham) commanded by the Law to receive from the people? vs. 5 Yet, this Melchizedek, whose genealogy is not traced to Abraham collected a tenth from him and blessed him. (vs.6) The lesser is blessed by the greater. (vs.7) In this case, mortal men receive tithes, but in that case one received them. What is witnessed about Melchizedek? vs. 8 The priests of Levi who received tithes also paid tithes. (vs.9,10) What was the Levitical priesthood lacking since another priest arose in the order of Melchizedek rather than the order of Aaron? vs. 11 When the priesthood changed, what else had to change? vs. 12 Jesus is not of the Levitical priesthood. He is from a tribe where priests are not mentioned according to the law of Moses. What tribe is Jesus from? vs. 14 A priest has arisen according to the likeness of Melchizedek. Rather than being a requirement based on the law, what kind of priesthood does He represent? vs. 16,17 Why is the former commandment of Law "set aside" with the new priesthood of Jesus? vs. 18 - Name 3 reasons. What is brought in with our new priest Jesus and what are we able to do through Him? vs. 19 The Levitical priests came into office without an oath. God has given an oath for our High Priest Jesus; what is it? vs. 20,21 What has Jesus become for us? vs. 22 Why did the former priests exist in greater numbers? v. 23 How long will Jesus be high priest? vs. 24 What is Jesus able to do forever for those who draw near to God through Him? vs. 25a What will Jesus always do for us? vs. 25b How awesome to realize that Jesus is living right now to intercede for us. Do you think that the Father listens to the Son concerning you? Comment on this beautiful fact \o/ It was fitting for us to have such a high priest. What 6 characteristics are given of our High Priest, Jesus? vs.26,27 Why does Jesus not have to offer up sacrifices daily for us? vs. 27 The Law appointed men to be high priests who were weak. The word of the "oath" which came "after the Law" through the Lord appointed a "Son". What is His condition forever? vs. 28 Summarize your thoughts on having our High Priest interceding for us now in heaven. Look back through all the chapters so far and make a list of all you have learned about Him being our High Priest. If you have time, you might want to use a concordance and find other verses on Jesus our High Priest. Post a prayer and a praise today if you would like.. \o/ Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews Chapter 6

Hebrews 6     What does the author of Hebrews want them to leave? vs. 1 In pressing on to maturity, what should they not lay a foundation of "again"? vs. 1-3 - Name 6 Things Note: The author of this letter to the Hebrews knows that some of them have been enlightened about the uselessness of the "dead works" and they keep drifting back into the fallacy of works rather than faith. We saw that in chapters 4 and 5. It is important that we take the whole letter in context and remember that in the original writing it was one letter, not broken up by chapters and verses we now have. These individuals have tasted the heavenly gift and have been partakers of the Holy Spirit. They have actually embraced Christianity but are now being part of the apostasy, leaving that belief and returning back to a denial of Christ being the Promised Messiah. It is clear from verse 6 that they are "crucifying to themselves the Son of God and putting Him to open shame". For them, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance because for a second time they are in open denial of Him. This is not a case of a weak believer or one who struggles with doubts or temptations. The writer has been clear that Jesus is a merciful High Priest that understands and sympathizes with our weaknesses. We know that we are told by Jesus in John 10:26-30 that His sheep will follow Him and no one can snatch them out of His Father's hand. We are secure in Him. What happens to ground that drinks in rain that often falls on it and brings forth vegetation (fruit) ? vs. 7 What happens to ground that yields thorns and thistles? vs. 8 The writer of Hebrews now changes to a more gentle and assuring tone, as he calls the believers in Christ, "beloved" .... What is he convinced of concerning them? vs. 9 God is not unjust. What will He not forget concerning us? vs. 10 - Name 4 things The writer desires that each one show the same diligence to realize the full "assurance" of hope until the end. (vs.11) Rather than be sluggish, who should we imitate? vs. 12 What was the promise that God made to Abraham? vs. 13,14 Abraham waited patiently and obtained the promise.(vs.15) Men enter oaths to end disputes between them (vs.16) When God made a promise to the heirs (believers in Christ) - What did He want them to understand about His Word to them? Fill in the blanks from vs.17,18 ..... The "____________ of His purpose" ... and that "It is ____________ for Him to lie." Because of these unchangeable things in God's character, what does this give us strong encouragement to do? vs. 18 How is this hope in God described by the writer of Hebrews? vs. 19 - Name 5 things. Are you encouraged by this chapter? Do you understand how secure that anchor of the soul is when you are no longer subject to works, but you are saved by faith into God's grace in Jesus Christ? Summarize your thoughts and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews Chapter 5

Hebrews 5     In this chapter the writer of Hebrews continues to pursue a line of reasoning to convince his readers that Christ is superior to prophets, angels, Moses, Joshua, and now, that Christ is Superior to the priesthood. In the first five verses the position and purpose of the priest is defined so that it may be made clear that Christ's position is superior to that of the priests. In regard to the high priests that Israel had that were appointed by men, what were they appointed to do in things pertaining to God? vs. 1 - Name 2 things How did the high priest deal with the sins of the ones ignorant of the law or misguided in their knowledge? vs. 2a Why was the high priest able to deal with them this way? vs. 2b What did the high priest have to do in order to take care of his own sinful nature? vs. 3 A person did not appoint themselves a high priest, but they were called by God, even as the first high priest, Aaron, was. (vs.4) How does this compare to how Christ was called to be our High Priest? vs. 4-5 What is Christ according to the Order of Melchizedek? vs. 6 Who is Melchizedek? Read Genesis 14:18-20 to see where Melchizedek was first introduced in Scripture. What did you learn about him? Read Hebrews 6:20 - Hebrews 7:1-3. What do you learn about Melchizedek that seems to be an immortal being? Summarize all that you learn about this priest. Would it be a stretch to say that this may have been the pre-carnate Christ? What does John 8:56-58 teach us about Abraham knowing about Jesus? Read Psalm 110. What does God say regarding Melchizedek in this passage? (see vs.4) Note: It is believed by Bible scholars that Melchizedek was either a type or picture of Christ OR that he was The Christ in pre-carnate form. Either way, the writer to the Hebrews is wanting them to realize that Christ is a High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. Jesus was not of the house of Levi, which all the earthly priests were suppose to come from - but was appointed by God to be both king and priest over the house of Israel. His calling is not by law but by the will of God. "You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek"- This eternal, immutable calling could only belong to Christ, our Great high priest. The author of Hebrews continues to speak of Jesus, our High Priest. What are we told that Jesus offered up in the days of His flesh? vs.7a What emotion did Jesus use with the Father when He was facing death on the cross? vs. 7b Although Jesus was the Son of God, how did He learn obedience? vs. 8 Having been made perfect through His sufferings, what did Jesus become to all who obey Him? vs. 9 Again, what did God designate Jesus to be and according to what order? vs. 10 Concerning Melchizedek, the author of Hebrews says that they had much to say about him that was hard to explain. Why was it hard to explain to the Hebrews? vs. 11 What should most of the people have been by that time? vs.12 Instead, they are still needing someone to teach them the "elementary principles" of the oracles of God. What have they come to need to eat for digestion purposes? vs.12 What are they not able to be accustomed to when they are infants only on milk? vs. 13 How does one become mature enough to be on the "meat" of the Word? vs. 14 How are your senses? Are they trained to discern good and evil? Do you believe you need to be on the milk of the Word or can you handle meat? These last verses deal with dullness of heart. The text here speaks about readiness to hear the word like a child is ready to eat solid food only after having been fed milk for some time. The writer of Hebrews is anxious to share the meat of what the Spirit has taught, but understands that his readers are still "unskilled in the word of righteousness." We will be chewing on "meat" in chapter six, and some may have a hard time understanding some of the deeper things that are going to be discussed, but realize that it is okay to not be able to digest it and return back on milk until you can prepare to digest more meat. Let us all continue to chew and digest the Word and become more mature day by day to handle all that the Lord would want to reveal to us in His precious Word. Summarize this chapter and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews Chapter 4

Hebrews 4     What does the author of Hebrews want them to fear? vs. 1 What have we had preached to us that those in the Old Testament had preached to them as well? vs. 2 Why didn't hearing the gospel profit them at the time? vs. 2 Note: We know from Hebrews 11 that some did have faith, but the majority did not believe. What have believers in Jesus entered into? vs. 3 What were the unbelievers in the Old Testament not able to enter into? vs. 4 Were the OT people able to have faith? Yes, they were. When were all of God's works finished? vs. 3 What did Jesus say when He died on the cross for our sins? See John 19:30 Yet, how long have believers had their names written in the Lamb's Book of Life? See Revelation 13:8. Write it out. Note: The Old Testament saints were able to believe the Gospel that was preached to them because of this. If they looked to the symbols that pointed to the cross, such as the serpent lifted up in the wilderness. Read about this account in Numbers 21:9 (OT) as well as what Jesus said in John 3:14-15. (NT) ...... They became believers in the same way by looking forward to the work of the cross just as we become believers looking back at the work of the cross. Among the Jews, the brazen serpent was considered a type of the resurrection-through it the dying lived; and so, by the voice of God, they that were dead shall be raised to life. As the serpent was raised up, so shall Christ be lifted up: as they who were stung by the fiery serpents were restored by looking up to the brazen serpent, so those who are infected with and dying through sin are healed and saved, by looking up to and believing in Christ crucified. 1 Peter 2:24 says .. "He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed." Amen. When did God rest from all His works? vs. 4 It remains for some to still "enter" God's "rest". Why did the majority of the ones in the wilderness "not enter it" ? vs. 5-6 God again fixes a certain day for us to enter His rest. What day is it? vs. 7 Who did He speak through about this rest a long time ago? vs. 7 What causes a person not to enter God's "rest", then and now? vs. 7 Joshua led the children of Israel into the Promised Land, but was that the "rest" God had spoken of through David and the symbols that pointed to Christ? How do we know? vs. 8 What still remains for the people of God today? vs. 9 When we enter God's "rest", what do we "rest" from? vs. 10 Look back at Titus 3:4-7. How do we enter God's "rest" according to these verses? What are we to be diligent to enter in to and not fall from? vs. 11 When we hear God's Word, what is it able to do for us just as it has done from the beginning of time? vs. 12 Since the Word of God judges the intents of the heart, we know that there is not a thought or an action that we can hide from God. (vs.13). Therefore, what should we 'hold fast' to? vs.14 We learned in the previous chapters that Jesus is the apostle and High Priest of our confession. He became a man to take our sins upon Himself, to become like us, so that He would be a merciful High Priest for us who could help us when we are tempted. What does He completely understand and sympathize with us about? vs. 15 It is human nature to have our doubts and our weaknesses, but we have a way to be reassured and strengthened daily. What does the author of Hebrews encourage us to do? vs. 15-16 What kind of throne does our Lord sit on? vs. 16 What two things do we receive from our Lord when we draw near to Him in our need? vs. 16 Final thoughts: Since God's "rest" is continually available to us, we need to continue to draw near to Him, realizing that through Christ, we come to a throne of grace and when we come in our weakness of the flesh, we are understood and will receive mercy from Him. Don't you need that "rest" today? Today you have heard His Word. Believe it and be diligent to continue to enter His "rest". What did Jesus invite you to do in Matthew 11:28? Write it out and "enter" His rest today. Summarize your thoughts and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews Chapter 3

Hebrews 3     As we begin Chapter 3 the author begins to explain why Jesus is superior to Moses. He has already established in previous chapters that Christ is superior to the Prophets in his revelation of the truth, and that Christ is more excellent than the angels in position and honor. What did the author say the holy brethren were partakers of? vs. 1 The author of Hebrews wanted them to consider Jesus. What did he call Jesus? vs.1- Note: The High priest is sent from among us to mediate our relationship to God. He is our advocate. But a priest is also one who offers sacrifice in behalf of the people for the atonement of sin. Christ Jesus was not only the priest, but also the sacrifice. The high priest is also the Lamb of God, slain for us, and offering himself as the gift of atonement for our sin. Who did the author compare Jesus to? vs. 2 Why had Jesus been counted worthy of more glory than Moses? vs. 3 Every house is built by someone. Who is the builder of all things? vs. 4 Moses was faithful in all God's House as a servant. What were the things he did a testimony of? vs.5 Christ was faithful over God's House as a Son. Who is God's house? vs. 6 What will show that we were truly a believer that belonged to the house of God? vs. 6 What are we not to do if the Holy Spirit speaks to us today? vs. 7,8 The Holy Spirit reminds them not to harden their hearts if they hear His Word in the way that the Israelites did when they provoked God in the day of their trial. They saw His works, but they forgot them and served other gods. Because they always went astray in their hearts, what were they unable to enter at that time? vs.7-11 (Note - If you want to read some of the accounts of their rebellion toward God, you can read Psalm 106, Numbers 25, Psalm 95, Exodus 16 & 17, and 1 Corinthians 10:1-14 to name a few places. You can find more references as well by looking in the concordance.) What does the author of Hebrews want each one of us to make sure about? vs. 12 How can we help each other not be deceived by sin and have a hardened heart? vs.13 What is the evidence that we have become partakers of Christ? vs. 14 The author of Hebrews mentions again not to harden their hearts like their forefathers did during the 40 years in the wilderness. (vs.15-17) Who were the ones who did not get to enter into the Lord's rest, the promised land? vs.18,19 - Name 2 things that kept them out. Note: The last paragraph of this chapter moves back to the writers argument that Jesus is greater than Moses. Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, but he could not keep them from sin and destruction in the wilderness. He could not bring them safely to the promised land, even though he himself was a faithful servant. So those who died in the wilderness did not enter into God's rest because of their unbelief. Jesus however is able to bring us safely into God's rest. That is the topic of Chapter 4 which we will take up tomorrow. Jesus was not only faithful, but also effectual and therefore we conclude he is superior to Moses. We will see how believer's have that "rest" in Jesus tomorrow in Hebrews Chapter 4. For now, think about your own heart, and make sure that it is one that believes God for His goodness and trusts in His promises. Summarize your thoughts and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews Chapter 2

Hebrews 2     Why must we pay "closer" attention to what we have heard? vs. 1 When God sent His Word through angels to proclaim a message or a warning to men, it was unalterable; it stood firm and could not be changed. When men refused to obey His Word, they received a just penalty for their disobedience. The author of Hebrews asks them in light of that truth, how would they escape His judgment if they neglected such a great offer of salvation. (vs.2,3) ... Who was the first to explain this salvation? vs. 3 Who confirmed the Lord's words to others? vs. 3 How did God show that He was the One speaking through these men who had heard His Word? vs.4 - Name 4 things God did according to His will. God did not subject to angels the world to come, and yet He crowned mankind with glory and honor and appointed him over the works of His hands.(vs.5-7) While on earth, what have we been made "for a little while"? vs. 7 God has put everything in subjection to mankind. (vs.8 ) However, do we see all the things that are in subjection to us at this time? Who do we see that was also "for a little while" lower than the angels? vs. 9 What made Him "lower" than the angels at one time? vs. 9 Why did Jesus become like us, lower than the angels, for a brief time? vs. 9 It was fitting for Jesus, for whom are "all things", and through whom are "all things", to suffer. What did His sufferings accomplish? vs. 10 - Name 2 things it accomplished. Jesus sanctifies us and we are sanctified in Him. We have the same Father and therefore, Jesus calls us His "brethren". He is not ashamed of this (vs.11). In fact, what does Jesus do in the midst of the congregation with us? vs. 12 How exciting is this to think of Jesus singing praises to the Father with us? Oh wow! ..... This makes me think of another verse. Who is praying with us when we are gathered by 2's or 3's in His Name? Look up Matthew 18:20 and write it out: What does Jesus do when He is with us and what does He say about us? vs. 13 Since we are flesh and blood, Jesus Himself partook of the same. What did He accomplish for us by becoming a man like us? vs. 14 What did Jesus free us of through His death and promise of eternal life? vs. 15 Who does God not give help to? vs. 16 Who does God give help to? vs. 16 In order to help us, Jesus became a merciful and faithful High Priest for us in the heavens. He had to be made like His "brethren" in order to accomplish this. What did He accomplish that makes us able to come through Him and be acceptable to God? vs. 17 Another way that Jesus helps us is when we face temptation. Why is He able to do this? vs. 18 Take time to thank God that Jesus became like us in order to pay for our sins and become a meriful High Priest for us to help us and free us from the fear of death. Praise His Holy Name! Summarize your thoughts and post a prayer if you would like. Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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Hebrews Chapter 1

Hebrews 1     How did God speak to the fathers long ago? vs. 1 How has God spoken to us in these last days? vs. 2 What did God appoint Jesus the heir of? vs. 2 Who did God create the world through? vs. 2 What 3 things are said about Jesus to show His diety? vs. 3 What did Jesus do after He made purification of sins? vs. 3 Who had Jesus become "much better than"? vs. 4 What kind of Name did Jesus inherit? vs. 4 God did not speak to any angel the way He spoke to His Son, Jesus. He told Him "You are My Son, Today I have begotten You." He said again, "I will be a Father to Him and He shall be a Son to Me." (vs.5) Who does God say is to worship Jesus? vs. 6 How does God explain the role of angels? vs. 7 What does God call His Son in the first line of verse 8? God said that the throne of Jesus would be forever and that the Scepter of His Kingdom was righteous and everlasting. (vs. Why did God anoint Jesus with the oil of gladness above His companions? vs. 9 What does God call His Son in the first part of verse 10? What did Jesus do in the beginning? vs. 10 Who created the Heavens? vs. 10 The heavens and earth will perish, but Jesus will remain. They will become old like a garment. (vs.11) What will Jesus do to the heavens? vs. 11 Like a garment, the heavens will be changed. Will Jesus ever change? vs. 12 How long will the kingdom of Jesus last? vs. 12 God did not tell the angels to sit at His right hand. What did He tell His Son, Jesus, to do? vs. 13 We are told more about the role of angels. What kind of spirits are they and who are they sent out to render service to? How does it feel to know that angels are sent out to help you in this way? Do you think you have ever had an angel's help? If so, why don't you share it with us. Reading this chapter shows us that God the Father called His Son Jesus - God and Lord - it is clear that He is Diety - part of God Himself. He will reign forever and His kingdom will never end. Do you belong to His Kingdom? Do you exalt His Name above every other Name and power in heaven or on earth? End this summary with not only a prayer, but praise to our Jesus, the everlasting King. Amen \o/ Prayer Father God, I pray ...

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