Did John prepare the way for the Lord? Were Father, Son and Holy Spirit involved in Jesus’ baptism? How did Mark summarize the Good News that Jesus preached? What did Jesus tell his first disciples? Did Jesus heal many? Did people come to Him from everywhere? Let’s find out in Mark 1.
Serving as a good title for the whole book, let’s look at verse 1. The Gospel, or Good News, is about who?
The beginning of the good news about Jesus Christ, God’s Son, (Mark 1:1 CEB)
What did the prophets predict? Is that still relevant in some ways for us?
It began just as God had said in the book written by Isaiah the prophet, “I am sending my messenger to get the way ready for you. In the desert someone is shouting, ‘Get the road ready for the Lord! Make a straight path for him.’ ” (Mark 1:2-3 CEV Malachi 3:1; Isaiah 40:3)
What was John’s ministry? Was he based in a city or the wilderness?
John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. (Mark 1:4-5 ESV)
What was John’s lifestyle? Did he wear fancy robes or very simple clothing?
John wore a camel-hair garment with a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey. (Mark 1:6 HCSB)
What was his message? Did he glorify himself or someone else?
He kept proclaiming, “The one who is coming after me is stronger than I am, and I am not worthy to bend down and untie his sandal straps. I baptized you with water, but it is he who will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 1:7-8 ISV)
Did Jesus submit to John’s baptism? Did His coming up out of the water mean He was immersed, or could it simply mean He came up the river bank? Is this deliberately left unspecified and vague? What did God the Father say?
And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Mark 1:9-11 KJV)
What happened immediately after that? Did the Holy Spirit drive Jesus somewhere?
And immediately the Spirit drove Him to go out into the wilderness. And He was in the wilderness forty days being tempted by Satan; and He was with the wild beasts, and the angels were ministering to Him. (Mark 1:12-13 LSB)
What is a summary of Jesus’ preaching? Do we preach like Jesus?
Now after John was taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1:14-15 NASB)
How did Simon and Andrew respond? How quickly did they respond?
As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him. (Mark 1:16-18 NIV)
How did the Zebedee brothers respond? How quickly did they respond?
When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went after Him. (Mark 1:19-20 NKJV)
How different was Jesus’ teaching style? What is the teaching style of many modern preachers?
Jesus and his companions went to the town of Capernaum. When the Sabbath day came, he went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, for he taught with real authority—quite unlike the teachers of religious law. (Mark 1:21-22 NLT)
Was there an immediate demon response? Did they know who Jesus was?
Immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, saying, “Ha! What do we have to do with you, Jesus, you Nazarene? Have you come to destroy us? I know you who you are: the Holy One of God!” (Mark 1:23-24 WEB)
How did Jesus deal with the demon? Did it obey Him?
“Silence!” Jesus said, speaking harshly to the demon. “Come out of him!” The unclean spirit shook him and screamed, then it came out. (Mark 1:25-26 CEB)
What was the people’s response? Were they surprised?
Everyone was completely surprised and kept saying to each other, “What is this? It must be some new kind of powerful teaching! Even the evil spirits obey him.” News about Jesus quickly spread all over Galilee. (Mark 1:27-28 CEV)
Did Jesus hang around or move on to other things? Was He making what we might call a whirlwind tour?
And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon's mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. (Mark 1:29-31 ESV)
Did Jesus quickly move on to other things? Did He permit any other demons to speak?
When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all those who were sick and those who were demon-possessed. The whole town was assembled at the door, and He healed many who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons. But He would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew Him. (Mark 1:32-34 HCSB)
How early did Jesus rise? What did He do? Was Jesus very busy?
In the morning, while it was still very dark, Jesus got up and went to a deserted place and prayed there. Simon and his companions searched frantically for him. When they found him, they told him, “Everyone’s looking for you.” (Mark 1:35-37 ISV)
What was Jesus busy doing? Did He travel throughout all of Galilee?
And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth. And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils. (Mark 1:38-39 KJV)
What happened to a leper? Did Jesus show compassion?
And a leper came to Jesus, pleading with Him and falling on his knees before Him, and saying, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” And moved with compassion, He stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” (Mark 1:40-41 LSB)
Was the man with a skin disease healed? How quickly was Jesus able to heal him?
And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed. (Mark 1:42 NASB)
What did Jesus warn him not to do? How did the leper spreading the news affect Jesus’ ministry?
Jesus sent him away at once with a strong warning: “See that you don’t tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” Instead he went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere. (Mark 1:43-45 NIV)
Did John prepare the way for the Lord? Were Father, Son and Holy Spirit involved in Jesus’ baptism? How did Mark summarize the Good News that Jesus preached? What did Jesus tell his first disciples? Did Jesus heal many? Did people come to Him from everywhere? How would we have reacted, if we had been there? You decide!
Acts of Sacrifice (Hebrews 13)
How important are love and hospitality in a church? Should we be careful not to be misled? Are we looking for the city that is still to come? Do we offer spiritual sacrifices like praise, confessing the Lord’s name, doing good and sharing what we have? Let’s find out in Hebrews 13.
What is the best hallmark of a local church? Have you ever suspected that you showed hospitality to an angel?
Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! (Hebrews 13:1-2 NLT)
Is a ministry to prisoners honorable? What about those mistreated by society?
Remember prisoners as if you were in prison with them, and people who are mistreated as if you were in their place. (Hebrews 13:3 CEB)
How should we treat marriage? Is sexual morality important?
Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled; but God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers. (Hebrews 13:4 WEB)
What about greed for money? Will God ever leave us? What do the Old Testament scriptures say?
Don't fall in love with money. Be satisfied with what you have. The Lord has promised that he will not leave us or desert us. This should make you feel like saying, “The Lord helps me! Why should I be afraid of what people can do to me?” (Hebrews 13:5-6 CEV Deuteronomy 31:6; Psalm 118:6-7)
How should we treat faithful church leaders? What is a hallmark of their service?
Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. (Hebrews 13:7 ESV)
Does Jesus change? Does His word change with the whims of a corrupt world?
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8 HCSB)
Did they have a weakness with different and strange doctrines like our generation? Is grace more important than food laws?
Stop being carried away by all kinds of unusual teachings, for it is good that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by food laws that have never helped those who follow them. (Hebrews 13:9 ISV)
Were sin offerings not available for eating? Was Jesus like a sin offering?
We have an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no authority to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as an offering for sin, are burned outside the camp. Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate. (Hebrews 13:10-12 LSB)
As Jesus suffered outside the city gate like a sin offering, do we belong outside the camp, in a city yet to come?
Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. (Hebrews 13:13-14 KJV)
What sacrifices do we make? What about praising God’s name, doing good and sharing?
Through Him then, let’s continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips praising His name. And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (Hebrews 13:15-16 NASB)
Do some churches continually nit pick and criticize their leaders, making life miserable for them? How should we strive to treat church leaders?
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you. (Hebrews 13:17 NIV)
How should we pray for church leaders? What are some specific prayers for them?
Pray for us; for we are confident that we have a good conscience, in all things desiring to live honorably. But I especially urge you to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner. (Hebrews 13:18-19 NKJV)
How did the author, traditionally Paul, bless them at the end of his letter?
Now may the God of peace—who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood— may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen. (Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT)
What was the final greeting? Do we consider fellow Christians as holy?
Greet your leaders and all of God’s holy people. The group from Italy greets you. May grace be with all of you. (Hebrews 13:24-25 CEB)
How important are love and hospitality in a church? Should we be careful not to be misled? Are we looking for the city that is still to come? Do we offer spiritual sacrifices like praise, confessing the Lord’s name, doing good and sharing what we have? You decide!
What is the best hallmark of a local church? Have you ever suspected that you showed hospitality to an angel?
Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! (Hebrews 13:1-2 NLT)
Is a ministry to prisoners honorable? What about those mistreated by society?
Remember prisoners as if you were in prison with them, and people who are mistreated as if you were in their place. (Hebrews 13:3 CEB)
How should we treat marriage? Is sexual morality important?
Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled; but God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers. (Hebrews 13:4 WEB)
What about greed for money? Will God ever leave us? What do the Old Testament scriptures say?
Don't fall in love with money. Be satisfied with what you have. The Lord has promised that he will not leave us or desert us. This should make you feel like saying, “The Lord helps me! Why should I be afraid of what people can do to me?” (Hebrews 13:5-6 CEV Deuteronomy 31:6; Psalm 118:6-7)
How should we treat faithful church leaders? What is a hallmark of their service?
Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. (Hebrews 13:7 ESV)
Does Jesus change? Does His word change with the whims of a corrupt world?
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8 HCSB)
Did they have a weakness with different and strange doctrines like our generation? Is grace more important than food laws?
Stop being carried away by all kinds of unusual teachings, for it is good that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by food laws that have never helped those who follow them. (Hebrews 13:9 ISV)
Were sin offerings not available for eating? Was Jesus like a sin offering?
We have an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no authority to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as an offering for sin, are burned outside the camp. Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate. (Hebrews 13:10-12 LSB)
As Jesus suffered outside the city gate like a sin offering, do we belong outside the camp, in a city yet to come?
Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. (Hebrews 13:13-14 KJV)
What sacrifices do we make? What about praising God’s name, doing good and sharing?
Through Him then, let’s continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips praising His name. And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (Hebrews 13:15-16 NASB)
Do some churches continually nit pick and criticize their leaders, making life miserable for them? How should we strive to treat church leaders?
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you. (Hebrews 13:17 NIV)
How should we pray for church leaders? What are some specific prayers for them?
Pray for us; for we are confident that we have a good conscience, in all things desiring to live honorably. But I especially urge you to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner. (Hebrews 13:18-19 NKJV)
How did the author, traditionally Paul, bless them at the end of his letter?
Now may the God of peace—who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood— may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen. (Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT)
What was the final greeting? Do we consider fellow Christians as holy?
Greet your leaders and all of God’s holy people. The group from Italy greets you. May grace be with all of you. (Hebrews 13:24-25 CEB)
How important are love and hospitality in a church? Should we be careful not to be misled? Are we looking for the city that is still to come? Do we offer spiritual sacrifices like praise, confessing the Lord’s name, doing good and sharing what we have? You decide!
Fix our Eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12)
Is there a great cloud of witnesses who were faithful before us? Do their examples encourage us to run with endurance the race that is set before us? Do we meditate on what Jesus did for us? Does the Lord discipline those He loves? Have we come to the city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem? Let’s discuss this in Hebrews 12.
Are the patriarchs and matriarchs of old a cloud of witnesses encouraging us to also have faith? Where should we fix our eyes?
Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, laying aside every weight and the sin which so easily entangles us, let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2 LSB)
Should we meditate on what Jesus suffered so that we too can endure and not grow weary?
For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:3 NASB)
Have most of us not yet reached the point of shedding blood for our faith in Jesus?
In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. (Hebrews 12:4 NIV)
What do the Proverbs say to all of us about the chastening of the Lord?
And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.” (Hebrews 12:5-6 NKJV Proverbs 3:11-12)
What does enduring God’s discipline mean in regard to living forever?
As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever? (Hebrews 12:7-9 NLT)
Why did our earthly fathers discipline us? Why does God? Should we allow God to train us?
For they indeed, for a few days, punished us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. All chastening seems for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:10-11 WEB)
What do the Old Testament scriptures encourage us to do in regard to God’s discipline?
So strengthen your drooping hands and weak knees! Make straight paths for your feet so that if any part is lame, it will be healed rather than injured more seriously. (Hebrews 12:12-13 CEB Isaiah 35:3; Proverbs 4:26)
What kind of life should we lead? What about peace and clean living?
Try to live at peace with everyone! Live a clean life. If you don't, you will never see the Lord. Make sure no one misses out on God's wonderful kindness. Don't let anyone become bitter and cause trouble for the rest of you. (Hebrews 12:14-15 CEV)
What else should we see to, in regard to sexual purity and holy living?
that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears. (Hebrews 12:16-17 ESV)
Does God reveal His power to us like He did with ancient Israel at Mount Sinai?
For you have not come to what could be touched, to a blazing fire, to darkness, gloom, and storm, to the blast of a trumpet, and the sound of words. (Those who heard it begged that not another word be spoken to them, for they could not bear what was commanded: And if even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned! (Hebrews 12:18-20 HCSB)
Was even Moses terrified at the powerful signs God revealed at Mount Sinai?
Indeed, the sight was so terrifying that Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.” (Hebrews 12:21 ISV)
Have we come to heavenly Mount Zion, the assembly of God’s people in heaven?
But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV)
What warning should we take seriously? Should we listen to God?
See to it that you do not refuse Him who is speaking. For if those did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape who turn away from Him who warns from heaven. (Hebrews 12:25 LSB)
Will God once more shake heaven and earth? Will a kingdom which cannot be shaken remain?
And His voice shook the earth then, but now He has promised, saying, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth, but also the heaven.” This expression, “Yet once more,” denotes the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let’s show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews 12:26-29 NASB)
Will there be a new heaven and new earth? Will the old pass away?
Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. (Revelation 21:1 NIV)
Is there a great cloud of witnesses who were faithful before us? Do their examples encourage us to run with endurance the race that is set before us? Do we meditate on what Jesus did for us? Does the Lord discipline those He loves? Have we come to the city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem? You decide!
Are the patriarchs and matriarchs of old a cloud of witnesses encouraging us to also have faith? Where should we fix our eyes?
Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, laying aside every weight and the sin which so easily entangles us, let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2 LSB)
Should we meditate on what Jesus suffered so that we too can endure and not grow weary?
For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:3 NASB)
Have most of us not yet reached the point of shedding blood for our faith in Jesus?
In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. (Hebrews 12:4 NIV)
What do the Proverbs say to all of us about the chastening of the Lord?
And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.” (Hebrews 12:5-6 NKJV Proverbs 3:11-12)
What does enduring God’s discipline mean in regard to living forever?
As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever? (Hebrews 12:7-9 NLT)
Why did our earthly fathers discipline us? Why does God? Should we allow God to train us?
For they indeed, for a few days, punished us as seemed good to them; but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. All chastening seems for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:10-11 WEB)
What do the Old Testament scriptures encourage us to do in regard to God’s discipline?
So strengthen your drooping hands and weak knees! Make straight paths for your feet so that if any part is lame, it will be healed rather than injured more seriously. (Hebrews 12:12-13 CEB Isaiah 35:3; Proverbs 4:26)
What kind of life should we lead? What about peace and clean living?
Try to live at peace with everyone! Live a clean life. If you don't, you will never see the Lord. Make sure no one misses out on God's wonderful kindness. Don't let anyone become bitter and cause trouble for the rest of you. (Hebrews 12:14-15 CEV)
What else should we see to, in regard to sexual purity and holy living?
that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears. (Hebrews 12:16-17 ESV)
Does God reveal His power to us like He did with ancient Israel at Mount Sinai?
For you have not come to what could be touched, to a blazing fire, to darkness, gloom, and storm, to the blast of a trumpet, and the sound of words. (Those who heard it begged that not another word be spoken to them, for they could not bear what was commanded: And if even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned! (Hebrews 12:18-20 HCSB)
Was even Moses terrified at the powerful signs God revealed at Mount Sinai?
Indeed, the sight was so terrifying that Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.” (Hebrews 12:21 ISV)
Have we come to heavenly Mount Zion, the assembly of God’s people in heaven?
But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV)
What warning should we take seriously? Should we listen to God?
See to it that you do not refuse Him who is speaking. For if those did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape who turn away from Him who warns from heaven. (Hebrews 12:25 LSB)
Will God once more shake heaven and earth? Will a kingdom which cannot be shaken remain?
And His voice shook the earth then, but now He has promised, saying, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth, but also the heaven.” This expression, “Yet once more,” denotes the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let’s show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews 12:26-29 NASB)
Will there be a new heaven and new earth? Will the old pass away?
Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. (Revelation 21:1 NIV)
Is there a great cloud of witnesses who were faithful before us? Do their examples encourage us to run with endurance the race that is set before us? Do we meditate on what Jesus did for us? Does the Lord discipline those He loves? Have we come to the city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem? You decide!
A Living Faith (Hebrews 11)
Is faith the assurance of things hoped for, the proof of things not yet seen? Did the patriarchs and matriarchs have a faith that pleased God? Do we believe that God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him? Let’s discuss this in Hebrews 11.
What is faith? Did faith make the ancient patriarchs and matriarchs pleasing to God?
Faith makes us sure of what we hope for and gives us proof of what we cannot see. It was their faith that made our ancestors pleasing to God. (Hebrews 11:1-2 CEV)
What is one of the most important things that we realize in faith? Was the universe created?
By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. (Hebrews 11:3 ESV)
Did Abel act on faith? Is that what made his sacrifice better than his brother’s?
By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was approved as a righteous man, because God approved his gifts, and even though he is dead, he still speaks through his faith. (Hebrews 11:4 HCSB)
Did Enoch have faith? Did this please God?
By faith Enoch was taken away without experiencing death. He could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he won approval as one who pleased God. (Hebrews 11:5 ISV)
What must we believe? Is diligence in seeking God important?
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 KJV)
Did Noah act on faith? Did he make great preparations for a barge to carry his family?
By faith Noah, being warned about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. (Hebrews 11:7 LSB)
Did Abraham act on faith? Did he obey God in faith or just believe without action?
By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he left, not knowing where he was going. By faith he lived as a stranger in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs of the same promise; for he was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. (Hebrews 11:8-10 NASB)
Did Sarah have faith? Did she have a child in her old age?
And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. (Hebrews 11:11-12 NIV)
Did they all have a heavenly hope? Did they seek a heavenly country?
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. (Hebrews 11:13-16 NKJV)
Did Abraham act on faith? Would any of us have so readily done such a thing?
It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. Abraham, who had received God’s promises, was ready to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, even though God had told him, “Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted.” Abraham reasoned that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. And in a sense, Abraham did receive his son back from the dead. (Hebrews 11:17-19 NLT)
Did Isaac, Jacob and Joseph act in faith? What about our faith, is it faith in action or empty belief?
By faith, Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even concerning things to come. By faith, Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff. By faith, Joseph, when his end was near, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones. (Hebrews 11:20-22 WEB)
Did Moses’ parents act in faith? Did they disobey pharaoh’s murderous orders?
By faith Moses was hidden by his parents for three months when he was born, because they saw that the child was beautiful and they weren’t afraid of the king’s orders. (Hebrews 11:23 CEB)
Did Moses act in faith? Did he prefer God's people to his status in Egypt?
Then after Moses grew up, his faith made him refuse to be called the king's grandson. He chose to be mistreated with God's people instead of having the good time that sin could bring for a little while. Moses knew that the treasures of Egypt were not as wonderful as what he would receive from suffering for the Messiah, and he looked forward to his reward. Because of his faith, Moses left Egypt. Moses had seen the invisible God and wasn't afraid of the king's anger. His faith also made him celebrate Passover. He sprinkled the blood of animals on the doorposts, so that the first-born sons of the people of Israel would not be killed by the destroying angel. (Hebrews 11:24-28 CEV)
Did Israel act in faith in the Exodus? Were crossing the sea and destroying the walls of Jericho acts of faith?
By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days. (Hebrews 11:29-30 ESV)
Did Rahab act in faith? Was her faith greater than her sinful lifestyle?
By faith Rahab the prostitute received the spies in peace and didn’t perish with those who disobeyed. (Hebrews 11:31 HCSB)
Did many others act in faith? Is the old testament filled with deeds of faith by very imperfect people?
And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell you about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets. Through faith they conquered kingdoms, administered justice, received promises, shut the mouths of lions, put out raging fires, escaped death by the sword, found strength in weakness, became powerful in battle, and routed foreign armies. Women received their dead raised back to life. Other people were brutally tortured, but refused to be ransomed, so that they might gain a better resurrection. Still others endured taunts and floggings, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned to death, sawed in half, and killed with swords. They went around in sheepskins and goatskins. They were needy, oppressed, and mistreated. The world wasn’t worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and from caves to holes in the ground. (Hebrews 11:32-38 ISV)
Did they all receive a good report through faith? What promise did they not yet receive without us? Will they and we be made perfect together?
And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. (Hebrews 11:39-40 KJV)
Is faith the assurance of things hoped for, the proof of things not yet seen? Did the patriarchs and matriarchs have a faith that pleased God? Do we believe that God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him? You decide!
What is faith? Did faith make the ancient patriarchs and matriarchs pleasing to God?
Faith makes us sure of what we hope for and gives us proof of what we cannot see. It was their faith that made our ancestors pleasing to God. (Hebrews 11:1-2 CEV)
What is one of the most important things that we realize in faith? Was the universe created?
By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. (Hebrews 11:3 ESV)
Did Abel act on faith? Is that what made his sacrifice better than his brother’s?
By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was approved as a righteous man, because God approved his gifts, and even though he is dead, he still speaks through his faith. (Hebrews 11:4 HCSB)
Did Enoch have faith? Did this please God?
By faith Enoch was taken away without experiencing death. He could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he won approval as one who pleased God. (Hebrews 11:5 ISV)
What must we believe? Is diligence in seeking God important?
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 KJV)
Did Noah act on faith? Did he make great preparations for a barge to carry his family?
By faith Noah, being warned about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. (Hebrews 11:7 LSB)
Did Abraham act on faith? Did he obey God in faith or just believe without action?
By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he left, not knowing where he was going. By faith he lived as a stranger in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs of the same promise; for he was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. (Hebrews 11:8-10 NASB)
Did Sarah have faith? Did she have a child in her old age?
And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. (Hebrews 11:11-12 NIV)
Did they all have a heavenly hope? Did they seek a heavenly country?
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. (Hebrews 11:13-16 NKJV)
Did Abraham act on faith? Would any of us have so readily done such a thing?
It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. Abraham, who had received God’s promises, was ready to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, even though God had told him, “Isaac is the son through whom your descendants will be counted.” Abraham reasoned that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. And in a sense, Abraham did receive his son back from the dead. (Hebrews 11:17-19 NLT)
Did Isaac, Jacob and Joseph act in faith? What about our faith, is it faith in action or empty belief?
By faith, Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even concerning things to come. By faith, Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff. By faith, Joseph, when his end was near, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones. (Hebrews 11:20-22 WEB)
Did Moses’ parents act in faith? Did they disobey pharaoh’s murderous orders?
By faith Moses was hidden by his parents for three months when he was born, because they saw that the child was beautiful and they weren’t afraid of the king’s orders. (Hebrews 11:23 CEB)
Did Moses act in faith? Did he prefer God's people to his status in Egypt?
Then after Moses grew up, his faith made him refuse to be called the king's grandson. He chose to be mistreated with God's people instead of having the good time that sin could bring for a little while. Moses knew that the treasures of Egypt were not as wonderful as what he would receive from suffering for the Messiah, and he looked forward to his reward. Because of his faith, Moses left Egypt. Moses had seen the invisible God and wasn't afraid of the king's anger. His faith also made him celebrate Passover. He sprinkled the blood of animals on the doorposts, so that the first-born sons of the people of Israel would not be killed by the destroying angel. (Hebrews 11:24-28 CEV)
Did Israel act in faith in the Exodus? Were crossing the sea and destroying the walls of Jericho acts of faith?
By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days. (Hebrews 11:29-30 ESV)
Did Rahab act in faith? Was her faith greater than her sinful lifestyle?
By faith Rahab the prostitute received the spies in peace and didn’t perish with those who disobeyed. (Hebrews 11:31 HCSB)
Did many others act in faith? Is the old testament filled with deeds of faith by very imperfect people?
And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell you about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets. Through faith they conquered kingdoms, administered justice, received promises, shut the mouths of lions, put out raging fires, escaped death by the sword, found strength in weakness, became powerful in battle, and routed foreign armies. Women received their dead raised back to life. Other people were brutally tortured, but refused to be ransomed, so that they might gain a better resurrection. Still others endured taunts and floggings, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned to death, sawed in half, and killed with swords. They went around in sheepskins and goatskins. They were needy, oppressed, and mistreated. The world wasn’t worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and from caves to holes in the ground. (Hebrews 11:32-38 ISV)
Did they all receive a good report through faith? What promise did they not yet receive without us? Will they and we be made perfect together?
And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. (Hebrews 11:39-40 KJV)
Is faith the assurance of things hoped for, the proof of things not yet seen? Did the patriarchs and matriarchs have a faith that pleased God? Do we believe that God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him? You decide!
Christ's Sacrifice (Hebrews 10)
Was the law a shadow of the good things to come? Was it impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins? Did God really want such a sacrifice or an offering? Did He perfect the people who are being made holy with one offering for all time? Do we need patient endurance, so that we will continue to do God’s will? Let’s find out in Hebrews 10.
What is the law? Why was there a need for continual sacrifices?
The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. Otherwise, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. (Hebrews 10:1-2 NIV)
What were those sacrifices a reminder of? What was it impossible for them to do?
But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins year by year. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. (Hebrews 10:3-4 LSB)
Did God have pleasure in animal sacrifices? What did He say in the Psalms?
Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, But a body You have prepared for Me. In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin You had no pleasure. Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—In the volume of the book it is written of Me—To do Your will, O God.’ ” (Hebrews 10:5-7 NKJV Psalm 40:6-8)
Is the first covenant canceled? Was God’s will for us to be made holy? What made that possible?
First, Christ said, “You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings or burnt offerings or other offerings for sin, nor were you pleased with them” (though they are required by the law of Moses). Then he said, “Look, I have come to do your will.” He cancels the first covenant in order to put the second into effect. For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. (Hebrews 10:8-10 NLT)
Did animal sacrifices take away sins? What did Jesus’ one offering do? If we are “being sanctified” is it a process?
Every priest indeed stands day by day serving and offering often the same sacrifices which can never take away sins, but he, when he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God, from that time waiting until his enemies are made the footstool of his feet. For by one offering he has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. (Hebrews 10:11-14 WEB)
Was the new covenant prophesied in Jeremiah? Is it a covenant whereby God will no longer remember our sins?
The Holy Spirit affirms this when saying, This is the covenant that I will make with them. After these days, says the Lord, I will place my laws in their hearts and write them on their minds. And I won’t remember their sins and their lawless behavior anymore. (Hebrews 10:15-17 CEB Jeremiah 31:33)
What happens when sins are forgiven? Is there still a need to offer sacrifices?
When sins are forgiven, there is no more need to offer sacrifices. (Hebrews 10:18 CEV)
What happens when we can enter heaven’s holy place by the blood of Jesus? Can we now draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith? Are our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience?
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. (Hebrews 10:19-22 ESV)
What should we hold onto? What should we promote? What about church attendance?
Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, not staying away from our worship meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:23-25 HCSB)
Do we have a choice? What if we choose to reject repentance?
For if we choose to go on sinning after we have learned the full truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but only a terrifying prospect of judgment and a raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. (Hebrews 10:26-27 ISV)
What about those who despised Moses’ law? Is there a worse punishment for those who rejected Christ?
He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? (Hebrews 10:28-29 KJV)
Should we wait patiently, trusting God for ultimate justice? Will He repay?
For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge His people.” It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10:30-31 LSB)
Did these Christians suffer for their faith? Are we insulted for our faith?
But remember the former days, when, after being enlightened, you endured a great conflict of sufferings, partly by being made a public spectacle through insults and distress, and partly by becoming companions with those who were so treated. (Hebrews 10:32-33 NASB)
Were some imprisoned and did some even have their property stolen? Does this still happen in various countries? Do we have better possessions in eternity?
You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. (Hebrews 10:34-35 NIV)
What do we need? Do we continue to do God’s will?
Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. (Hebrews 20:36 NLT)
Does the author paraphrase Habakkuk? Do we live by faith or shrink back?
“In a very little while, he who comes will come, and will not wait. But the righteous will live by faith. If he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” (Hebrews 10:37-38 WEB Habakkuk 2:3-4)
Will we shrink back and be destroyed? Will we endure in faith and so be preserved?
But we aren’t the sort of people who timidly draw back and end up being destroyed. We’re the sort of people who have faith so that our whole beings are preserved. (Hebrews 10:39 CEB)
Was the law a shadow of the good things to come? Was it impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins? Did God really want such a sacrifice or an offering? Did He perfect the people who are being made holy with one offering for all time? Do we need patient endurance, so that we will continue to do God’s will? You decide!
What is the law? Why was there a need for continual sacrifices?
The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. Otherwise, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. (Hebrews 10:1-2 NIV)
What were those sacrifices a reminder of? What was it impossible for them to do?
But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins year by year. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. (Hebrews 10:3-4 LSB)
Did God have pleasure in animal sacrifices? What did He say in the Psalms?
Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, But a body You have prepared for Me. In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin You had no pleasure. Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—In the volume of the book it is written of Me—To do Your will, O God.’ ” (Hebrews 10:5-7 NKJV Psalm 40:6-8)
Is the first covenant canceled? Was God’s will for us to be made holy? What made that possible?
First, Christ said, “You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings or burnt offerings or other offerings for sin, nor were you pleased with them” (though they are required by the law of Moses). Then he said, “Look, I have come to do your will.” He cancels the first covenant in order to put the second into effect. For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. (Hebrews 10:8-10 NLT)
Did animal sacrifices take away sins? What did Jesus’ one offering do? If we are “being sanctified” is it a process?
Every priest indeed stands day by day serving and offering often the same sacrifices which can never take away sins, but he, when he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God, from that time waiting until his enemies are made the footstool of his feet. For by one offering he has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. (Hebrews 10:11-14 WEB)
Was the new covenant prophesied in Jeremiah? Is it a covenant whereby God will no longer remember our sins?
The Holy Spirit affirms this when saying, This is the covenant that I will make with them. After these days, says the Lord, I will place my laws in their hearts and write them on their minds. And I won’t remember their sins and their lawless behavior anymore. (Hebrews 10:15-17 CEB Jeremiah 31:33)
What happens when sins are forgiven? Is there still a need to offer sacrifices?
When sins are forgiven, there is no more need to offer sacrifices. (Hebrews 10:18 CEV)
What happens when we can enter heaven’s holy place by the blood of Jesus? Can we now draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith? Are our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience?
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. (Hebrews 10:19-22 ESV)
What should we hold onto? What should we promote? What about church attendance?
Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, not staying away from our worship meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:23-25 HCSB)
Do we have a choice? What if we choose to reject repentance?
For if we choose to go on sinning after we have learned the full truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but only a terrifying prospect of judgment and a raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. (Hebrews 10:26-27 ISV)
What about those who despised Moses’ law? Is there a worse punishment for those who rejected Christ?
He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? (Hebrews 10:28-29 KJV)
Should we wait patiently, trusting God for ultimate justice? Will He repay?
For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge His people.” It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10:30-31 LSB)
Did these Christians suffer for their faith? Are we insulted for our faith?
But remember the former days, when, after being enlightened, you endured a great conflict of sufferings, partly by being made a public spectacle through insults and distress, and partly by becoming companions with those who were so treated. (Hebrews 10:32-33 NASB)
Were some imprisoned and did some even have their property stolen? Does this still happen in various countries? Do we have better possessions in eternity?
You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. (Hebrews 10:34-35 NIV)
What do we need? Do we continue to do God’s will?
Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. (Hebrews 20:36 NLT)
Does the author paraphrase Habakkuk? Do we live by faith or shrink back?
“In a very little while, he who comes will come, and will not wait. But the righteous will live by faith. If he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” (Hebrews 10:37-38 WEB Habakkuk 2:3-4)
Will we shrink back and be destroyed? Will we endure in faith and so be preserved?
But we aren’t the sort of people who timidly draw back and end up being destroyed. We’re the sort of people who have faith so that our whole beings are preserved. (Hebrews 10:39 CEB)
Was the law a shadow of the good things to come? Was it impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins? Did God really want such a sacrifice or an offering? Did He perfect the people who are being made holy with one offering for all time? Do we need patient endurance, so that we will continue to do God’s will? You decide!
The Tabernacle (Hebrews 9)
Was the earthly tabernacle a picture of heaven? Did Christ enter through the greater and more perfect tabernacle into heaven? Does the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse our conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Is a covenant like a last will and testament, involving a death? Let’s discuss this in Hebrews 9.
What was the earthly tabernacle like under the old covenant?
Then indeed, even the first covenant had ordinances of divine service and the earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was prepared: the first part, in which was the lampstand, the table, and the showbread, which is called the sanctuary; and behind the second veil, the part of the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of All, (Hebrews 9:1-3 NKJV)
What was in the holy of holies? Were there statues of cherubs there? Were they bowed down to like icons?
having a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded, and the tablets of the covenant. And above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. (Hebrews 9:4-5 LSB)
Who entered the holy of holies? Was that just once a year?
When these things were all in place, the priests regularly entered the first room as they performed their religious duties. But only the high priest ever entered the Most Holy Place, and only once a year. And he always offered blood for his own sins and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. (Hebrews 9:6-7 NLT)
Was the entrance to the most holy place freely open as long as the old system was in place? What did the Holy Spirit want to teach us in this?
The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: (Hebrews 9:8 KJV)
Were those old practices in place until a reformation, a new covenant and better way?
This is a symbol of the present age, where gifts and sacrifices are offered that are incapable, concerning the conscience, of making the worshiper perfect, being only (with meats and drinks and various washings) fleshly ordinances, imposed until a time of reformation. (Hebrews 9:9-10 WEB)
What has Christ done? Is heaven the more perfect tabernacle?
But Christ has appeared as the high priest of the good things that have happened. He passed through the greater and more perfect meeting tent, which isn’t made by human hands (that is, it’s not a part of this world). He entered the holy of holies once for all by his own blood, not by the blood of goats or calves, securing our deliverance for all time. (Hebrews 9:11-12 CEB)
Why is Jesus’ blood much more powerful than that of animals? Can we now serve God and not worry about death?
According to the Law of Moses, those people who become unclean are not fit to worship God. Yet they will be considered clean, if they are sprinkled with the blood of goats and bulls and with the ashes of a sacrificed calf. But Christ was sinless, and he offered himself as an eternal and spiritual sacrifice to God. This is why his blood is much more powerful and makes our consciences clear. Now we can serve the living God and no longer do things that lead to death. (Hebrews 9:13-14 CEV)
Who is the mediator of this new covenant? Who does it redeem from transgressing the old covenant?
Therefore he [Christ] is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant. (Hebrews 9:15 ESV)
Are the covenants similar to a last will and testament? Is that why blood ratified both covenants?
Where a will exists, the death of the one who made it must be established. For a will is valid only when people die, since it is never in force while the one who made it is living. That is why even the first covenant was inaugurated with blood. For when every command had been proclaimed by Moses to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats, along with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll itself and all the people, saying, This is the blood of the covenant that God has commanded for you. (Hebrews 9:16-20 HCSB)
Did sprinkling blood symbolize cleansing and forgiveness? Did this point to the cross?
In the same way, he sprinkled with the blood both the tent and everything used in worship. In fact, under the Law almost everything is cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of the blood there is no forgiveness. (Hebrews 9:21-22 ISV)
Did the tabernacle portray heaven? Did Christ enter heaven?
It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: (Hebrews 9:23-24 KJV)
How often did Jesus offer Himself? What did His sacrifice accomplish?
nor was it that He would offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the holy places year by year with blood that is not his own. Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. (Hebrews 9:25-26 LSB)
Will Christ appear a second time? Do we eagerly await Him?
And just as it is destined for people to die once, and after this comes judgment, so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him. (Hebrews 9:27-28 NASB)
Was the earthly tabernacle a picture of heaven? Did Christ enter through the greater and more perfect tabernacle into heaven? Does the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse our conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Is a covenant like a last will and testament involving a death? You decide!
What was the earthly tabernacle like under the old covenant?
Then indeed, even the first covenant had ordinances of divine service and the earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was prepared: the first part, in which was the lampstand, the table, and the showbread, which is called the sanctuary; and behind the second veil, the part of the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of All, (Hebrews 9:1-3 NKJV)
What was in the holy of holies? Were there statues of cherubs there? Were they bowed down to like icons?
having a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded, and the tablets of the covenant. And above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. (Hebrews 9:4-5 LSB)
Who entered the holy of holies? Was that just once a year?
When these things were all in place, the priests regularly entered the first room as they performed their religious duties. But only the high priest ever entered the Most Holy Place, and only once a year. And he always offered blood for his own sins and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. (Hebrews 9:6-7 NLT)
Was the entrance to the most holy place freely open as long as the old system was in place? What did the Holy Spirit want to teach us in this?
The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: (Hebrews 9:8 KJV)
Were those old practices in place until a reformation, a new covenant and better way?
This is a symbol of the present age, where gifts and sacrifices are offered that are incapable, concerning the conscience, of making the worshiper perfect, being only (with meats and drinks and various washings) fleshly ordinances, imposed until a time of reformation. (Hebrews 9:9-10 WEB)
What has Christ done? Is heaven the more perfect tabernacle?
But Christ has appeared as the high priest of the good things that have happened. He passed through the greater and more perfect meeting tent, which isn’t made by human hands (that is, it’s not a part of this world). He entered the holy of holies once for all by his own blood, not by the blood of goats or calves, securing our deliverance for all time. (Hebrews 9:11-12 CEB)
Why is Jesus’ blood much more powerful than that of animals? Can we now serve God and not worry about death?
According to the Law of Moses, those people who become unclean are not fit to worship God. Yet they will be considered clean, if they are sprinkled with the blood of goats and bulls and with the ashes of a sacrificed calf. But Christ was sinless, and he offered himself as an eternal and spiritual sacrifice to God. This is why his blood is much more powerful and makes our consciences clear. Now we can serve the living God and no longer do things that lead to death. (Hebrews 9:13-14 CEV)
Who is the mediator of this new covenant? Who does it redeem from transgressing the old covenant?
Therefore he [Christ] is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant. (Hebrews 9:15 ESV)
Are the covenants similar to a last will and testament? Is that why blood ratified both covenants?
Where a will exists, the death of the one who made it must be established. For a will is valid only when people die, since it is never in force while the one who made it is living. That is why even the first covenant was inaugurated with blood. For when every command had been proclaimed by Moses to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats, along with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll itself and all the people, saying, This is the blood of the covenant that God has commanded for you. (Hebrews 9:16-20 HCSB)
Did sprinkling blood symbolize cleansing and forgiveness? Did this point to the cross?
In the same way, he sprinkled with the blood both the tent and everything used in worship. In fact, under the Law almost everything is cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of the blood there is no forgiveness. (Hebrews 9:21-22 ISV)
Did the tabernacle portray heaven? Did Christ enter heaven?
It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: (Hebrews 9:23-24 KJV)
How often did Jesus offer Himself? What did His sacrifice accomplish?
nor was it that He would offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the holy places year by year with blood that is not his own. Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. (Hebrews 9:25-26 LSB)
Will Christ appear a second time? Do we eagerly await Him?
And just as it is destined for people to die once, and after this comes judgment, so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him. (Hebrews 9:27-28 NASB)
Was the earthly tabernacle a picture of heaven? Did Christ enter through the greater and more perfect tabernacle into heaven? Does the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse our conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Is a covenant like a last will and testament involving a death? You decide!
A Better Covenant (Hebrews 8)
Where is our high priest? What did our high priest offer? What does the new covenant place in our hearts? What will God forgive? Is the old covenant now obsolete? Let’s find out in Hebrews 8.
Where does our high priest serve? Where is the true tabernacle?
Now the main point of what is being said is this: We have this kind of high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister of the sanctuary and the true tabernacle that was set up by the Lord and not man. (Hebrews 8:1-2 HCSB)
Did Jesus as high priest offer Himself? Is the new covenant better than the old?
For every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices. Therefore, this high priest had to offer something, too. Now if he were on earth, he would not even be a priest, because other men offer the gifts prescribed by the Law. They serve in a sanctuary that is a copy, a shadow of the heavenly one. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tent: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.” However, Jesus has now obtained a more superior ministry, since the covenant he mediates is founded on better promises. (Hebrews 8:3-6 ISV)
With whom was the fault of the old covenant? Is there a new covenant?
For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: (Hebrews 8:7-8 KJV Jeremiah 31:31-34)
Who broke the old covenant? What is a key component of the new covenant?
Not like the covenant which I made with their fathers In the day when I took them by the hand To lead them out of the land of Egypt; For they did not continue in My covenant, And I did not care for them, says the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel After those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws into their minds, And upon their hearts I will write them. And I will be their God, And they shall be My people. (Hebrews 8:9-10 LSB Jeremiah 31:31-34)
What is a wonderful blessing of the new covenant? What will God no longer remember?
And they will not teach, each one his fellow citizen, And each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ For they will all know Me, From the least to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful toward their wrongdoings, And their sins I will no longer remember.” (Hebrews 8:11-12 NASB Jeremiah 31:31-34)
What happens to the old covenant? Will it soon disappear?
By calling this covenant “new,” he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and outdated will soon disappear. (Hebrews 8:13 NIV)
Where is our high priest? What did our high priest offer? What does the new covenant place in our hearts? What will God forgive? Is the old covenant now obsolete? You decide!
Where does our high priest serve? Where is the true tabernacle?
Now the main point of what is being said is this: We have this kind of high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister of the sanctuary and the true tabernacle that was set up by the Lord and not man. (Hebrews 8:1-2 HCSB)
Did Jesus as high priest offer Himself? Is the new covenant better than the old?
For every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices. Therefore, this high priest had to offer something, too. Now if he were on earth, he would not even be a priest, because other men offer the gifts prescribed by the Law. They serve in a sanctuary that is a copy, a shadow of the heavenly one. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tent: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.” However, Jesus has now obtained a more superior ministry, since the covenant he mediates is founded on better promises. (Hebrews 8:3-6 ISV)
With whom was the fault of the old covenant? Is there a new covenant?
For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: (Hebrews 8:7-8 KJV Jeremiah 31:31-34)
Who broke the old covenant? What is a key component of the new covenant?
Not like the covenant which I made with their fathers In the day when I took them by the hand To lead them out of the land of Egypt; For they did not continue in My covenant, And I did not care for them, says the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel After those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws into their minds, And upon their hearts I will write them. And I will be their God, And they shall be My people. (Hebrews 8:9-10 LSB Jeremiah 31:31-34)
What is a wonderful blessing of the new covenant? What will God no longer remember?
And they will not teach, each one his fellow citizen, And each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ For they will all know Me, From the least to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful toward their wrongdoings, And their sins I will no longer remember.” (Hebrews 8:11-12 NASB Jeremiah 31:31-34)
What happens to the old covenant? Will it soon disappear?
By calling this covenant “new,” he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and outdated will soon disappear. (Hebrews 8:13 NIV)
Where is our high priest? What did our high priest offer? What does the new covenant place in our hearts? What will God forgive? Is the old covenant now obsolete? You decide!
Melchizedek (Hebrews 7)
Was Melchizedek a high priest before the Levitical priesthood? Was the Levitical priesthood perfect? Is Jesus the perfect high priest? Let’s discuss this in Hebrews 7.
Who was Melchizedek? What does it mean that he was without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life? Who was he made like?
For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. (Hebrews 7:1-3 KJV)
How often did Abraham pay Melchizedek a tenth? How often did the priests collect a tenth?
Now observe how great this man was to whom Abraham, the patriarch, gave a tenth of the spoils. And those indeed of the sons of Levi, who receive the priest’s office, have a commandment in the Law to collect a tenth from the people, that is, from their brothers, although these are descended from Abraham. (Hebrews 7:4-5 LSB)
Did Melchizedek not trace his genealogy from Abraham? Does Melchisedek live on?
But the one whose genealogy is not traced from them collected a tenth from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. But without any dispute the lesser person is blessed by the greater. In this case mortal men receive tithes, but in that case one receives them, of whom it is witnessed that he lives on. (Hebrews 7:6-8 NASB)
Did Levi also, in a sense, pay a tenth to Melchizedek through his ancestor Abraham?
One might even say that Levi, who collects the tenth, paid the tenth through Abraham, because when Melchizedek met Abraham, Levi was still in the body of his ancestor. (Hebrews 7:9-10 NIV)
Was the Levitical priesthood perfect? Was there a need for another priest to rise?
Therefore, if perfection were through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should rise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be called according to the order of Aaron? (Hebrews 7:11 NKJV)
Was the law changed? Did that change permit Jesus to be our high priest?
And if the priesthood is changed, the law must also be changed to permit it. For the priest we are talking about belongs to a different tribe, whose members have never served at the altar as priests. What I mean is, our Lord came from the tribe of Judah, and Moses never mentioned priests coming from that tribe. (Hebrews 7:12-14 NLT)
Did Jesus refer to a precedent even older than the Levitical priesthood and the law that regulated it?
This is yet more abundantly evident, if after the likeness of Melchizedek there arises another priest, who has been made, not after the law of a fleshly commandment, but after the power of an endless life; for it is testified, “You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 7:15-17 WEB Psalm 110:4)
Is the earlier command now set aside, or was the Levitical priesthood promised forever? Is the priesthood of Jesus promised forever?
On the one hand, an earlier command is set aside because it was weak and useless (because the Law made nothing perfect). On the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God. And this was not done without a solemn pledge! The others have become priests without a solemn pledge, but this priest was affirmed with a solemn pledge by the one who said, The Lord has made a solemn pledge and will not change his mind: You are a priest forever. (Hebrews 7:18-21 CEB Psalm 110:4)
Does this mean that Jesus guarantees a better covenant? Is Jesus forever able to intervene for us?
This means that Jesus guarantees us a better agreement with God. There have been a lot of other priests, and all of them have died. But Jesus will never die, and so he will be a priest forever! He is forever able to save the people he leads to God, because he always lives to speak to God for them. (Hebrews 7:22-25 CEV)
Is Jesus the best high priest? Did He offer up Himself as a perfect sacrifice?
For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever. (Hebrews 6:26-28 ESV)
Was Melchizedek a high priest before the Levitical priesthood? Was the Levitical priesthood perfect? Is Jesus the perfect high priest? You decide!
Who was Melchizedek? What does it mean that he was without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life? Who was he made like?
For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. (Hebrews 7:1-3 KJV)
How often did Abraham pay Melchizedek a tenth? How often did the priests collect a tenth?
Now observe how great this man was to whom Abraham, the patriarch, gave a tenth of the spoils. And those indeed of the sons of Levi, who receive the priest’s office, have a commandment in the Law to collect a tenth from the people, that is, from their brothers, although these are descended from Abraham. (Hebrews 7:4-5 LSB)
Did Melchizedek not trace his genealogy from Abraham? Does Melchisedek live on?
But the one whose genealogy is not traced from them collected a tenth from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. But without any dispute the lesser person is blessed by the greater. In this case mortal men receive tithes, but in that case one receives them, of whom it is witnessed that he lives on. (Hebrews 7:6-8 NASB)
Did Levi also, in a sense, pay a tenth to Melchizedek through his ancestor Abraham?
One might even say that Levi, who collects the tenth, paid the tenth through Abraham, because when Melchizedek met Abraham, Levi was still in the body of his ancestor. (Hebrews 7:9-10 NIV)
Was the Levitical priesthood perfect? Was there a need for another priest to rise?
Therefore, if perfection were through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should rise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be called according to the order of Aaron? (Hebrews 7:11 NKJV)
Was the law changed? Did that change permit Jesus to be our high priest?
And if the priesthood is changed, the law must also be changed to permit it. For the priest we are talking about belongs to a different tribe, whose members have never served at the altar as priests. What I mean is, our Lord came from the tribe of Judah, and Moses never mentioned priests coming from that tribe. (Hebrews 7:12-14 NLT)
Did Jesus refer to a precedent even older than the Levitical priesthood and the law that regulated it?
This is yet more abundantly evident, if after the likeness of Melchizedek there arises another priest, who has been made, not after the law of a fleshly commandment, but after the power of an endless life; for it is testified, “You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 7:15-17 WEB Psalm 110:4)
Is the earlier command now set aside, or was the Levitical priesthood promised forever? Is the priesthood of Jesus promised forever?
On the one hand, an earlier command is set aside because it was weak and useless (because the Law made nothing perfect). On the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God. And this was not done without a solemn pledge! The others have become priests without a solemn pledge, but this priest was affirmed with a solemn pledge by the one who said, The Lord has made a solemn pledge and will not change his mind: You are a priest forever. (Hebrews 7:18-21 CEB Psalm 110:4)
Does this mean that Jesus guarantees a better covenant? Is Jesus forever able to intervene for us?
This means that Jesus guarantees us a better agreement with God. There have been a lot of other priests, and all of them have died. But Jesus will never die, and so he will be a priest forever! He is forever able to save the people he leads to God, because he always lives to speak to God for them. (Hebrews 7:22-25 CEV)
Is Jesus the best high priest? Did He offer up Himself as a perfect sacrifice?
For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever. (Hebrews 6:26-28 ESV)
Was Melchizedek a high priest before the Levitical priesthood? Was the Levitical priesthood perfect? Is Jesus the perfect high priest? You decide!
On To Perfection (Hebrews 6)
Should we leave discussing elementary Christian teachings and move on to maturity? Can people turn away from God? Should we continue to be diligent to the very end? Is there such a thing as a lazy faith? Let’s discuss this in Hebrews 6.
Should we eventually move on beyond very basic Christian doctrines to deeper things? What are some of those elementary principles?
Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits. (Hebrews 6:1-3 NKJV)
What is the grave danger awaiting those who turn away from God? Can a person turn away from God?
For it is impossible to bring back to repentance those who were once enlightened—those who have experienced the good things of heaven and shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the power of the age to come— and who then turn away from God. It is impossible to bring such people back to repentance; by rejecting the Son of God, they themselves are nailing him to the cross once again and holding him up to public shame. (Hebrews 6:4-6 NLT)
Is turning away from God like land that produces thorns instead of a good crop? Are they burned?
For the land which has drunk the rain that comes often on it and produces a crop suitable for them for whose sake it is also tilled, receives blessing from God; but if it bears thorns and thistles, it is rejected and near being cursed, whose end is to be burned. (Hebrews 6:7-8 WEB)
What about effort, love and service? Do they go together with salvation?
But we are convinced of better things in your case, brothers and sisters, even though we are talking this way—things that go together with salvation. God isn’t unjust so that he forgets your efforts and the love you have shown for his name’s sake when you served and continue to serve God’s holy people. (Hebrews 6:9-10 CEB)
Can we just relax in a lazy faith, or should we patiently hold onto hope until God finally fulfills his promise to us?
We wish each of you would always be eager to show how strong and lasting your hope really is. Then you would never be lazy. You would be following the example of those who had faith and were patient until God kept his promise to them. (Hebrews 6:11-12 CEV)
Did Abraham eventually obtain the promise of a son and grandchildren? Was he required to patiently wait?
For when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself, saying, “Surely I will bless you and multiply you.” And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise. (Hebrews 6:13-15 ESV)
Why do men and women swear oaths? What guarantees a promise from God?
For men swear by something greater than themselves, and for them a confirming oath ends every dispute. Because God wanted to show His unchangeable purpose even more clearly to the heirs of the promise, He guaranteed it with an oath, so that through two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. (Hebrews 6:16-18 HCSB)
Is Jesus like an anchor that secures a ship? Like the high priest went behind the veil into the holy of holies to make atonement for the people, has Jesus gone beyond the veil, into heaven to intercede for us?
That hope, firm and secure like an anchor for our souls, reaches behind the curtain where Jesus, our forerunner, has gone on our behalf, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 6:19-20 ISV)
Should we leave discussing elementary Christian teachings and move on to maturity? Can people turn away from God? Should we continue to be diligent to the very end? Is there such a thing as a lazy faith? You decide!
Should we eventually move on beyond very basic Christian doctrines to deeper things? What are some of those elementary principles?
Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits. (Hebrews 6:1-3 NKJV)
What is the grave danger awaiting those who turn away from God? Can a person turn away from God?
For it is impossible to bring back to repentance those who were once enlightened—those who have experienced the good things of heaven and shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the power of the age to come— and who then turn away from God. It is impossible to bring such people back to repentance; by rejecting the Son of God, they themselves are nailing him to the cross once again and holding him up to public shame. (Hebrews 6:4-6 NLT)
Is turning away from God like land that produces thorns instead of a good crop? Are they burned?
For the land which has drunk the rain that comes often on it and produces a crop suitable for them for whose sake it is also tilled, receives blessing from God; but if it bears thorns and thistles, it is rejected and near being cursed, whose end is to be burned. (Hebrews 6:7-8 WEB)
What about effort, love and service? Do they go together with salvation?
But we are convinced of better things in your case, brothers and sisters, even though we are talking this way—things that go together with salvation. God isn’t unjust so that he forgets your efforts and the love you have shown for his name’s sake when you served and continue to serve God’s holy people. (Hebrews 6:9-10 CEB)
Can we just relax in a lazy faith, or should we patiently hold onto hope until God finally fulfills his promise to us?
We wish each of you would always be eager to show how strong and lasting your hope really is. Then you would never be lazy. You would be following the example of those who had faith and were patient until God kept his promise to them. (Hebrews 6:11-12 CEV)
Did Abraham eventually obtain the promise of a son and grandchildren? Was he required to patiently wait?
For when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself, saying, “Surely I will bless you and multiply you.” And thus Abraham, having patiently waited, obtained the promise. (Hebrews 6:13-15 ESV)
Why do men and women swear oaths? What guarantees a promise from God?
For men swear by something greater than themselves, and for them a confirming oath ends every dispute. Because God wanted to show His unchangeable purpose even more clearly to the heirs of the promise, He guaranteed it with an oath, so that through two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. (Hebrews 6:16-18 HCSB)
Is Jesus like an anchor that secures a ship? Like the high priest went behind the veil into the holy of holies to make atonement for the people, has Jesus gone beyond the veil, into heaven to intercede for us?
That hope, firm and secure like an anchor for our souls, reaches behind the curtain where Jesus, our forerunner, has gone on our behalf, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 6:19-20 ISV)
Should we leave discussing elementary Christian teachings and move on to maturity? Can people turn away from God? Should we continue to be diligent to the very end? Is there such a thing as a lazy faith? You decide!
Salvation for All Who Obey (Hebrews 5)
Is Jesus a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek? Did He become the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him? Are we living on the milk of the word or are we mature enough in the faith for meat? Let’s find out in Hebrews 5.
What was a high priest's duties? How did he act for men in relation to God?
For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. (Hebrews 5:1 ESV)
Why could such a high priest empathize with others? Was he also a weak human being?
He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he is also subject to weakness. (Hebrews 5:2 HCSB)
Because of this, what is his obligation? To offer what sacrifices?
For that reason he is obligated to offer sacrifices for his own sins as well as for those of the people. (Hebrews 5:3 ISV)
Could a high priest appoint himself? Was he appointed by God?
And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. (Hebrews 5:4 KJV)
How does this relate to Jesus? What Old Testament passages refer to Christ in this regard?
In this way also Christ did not glorify Himself to become a high priest, but He who said to Him, “You are My Son, Today I have begotten You”; just as He says also in another passage, “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 5:5-6 LSB Psalm 2:7; 110:4)
What did Jesus become the source of? Is that salvation, offered to those who have faith “alone,” without obedience, or for all those who obey Him?
In the days of His humanity, He offered up both prayers and pleas with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His devout behavior. Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey Him, being designated by God as High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 5:7-10 NASB)
Were they like many Christians, unable to digest solid food, only able to deal with spiritual baby food? What about us?
We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (Hebrews 5:11-14 NIV)
Is Jesus a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek? Did He become the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him? Are we living on the milk of the word or are we mature enough in the faith for meat? You decide!
What was a high priest's duties? How did he act for men in relation to God?
For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. (Hebrews 5:1 ESV)
Why could such a high priest empathize with others? Was he also a weak human being?
He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he is also subject to weakness. (Hebrews 5:2 HCSB)
Because of this, what is his obligation? To offer what sacrifices?
For that reason he is obligated to offer sacrifices for his own sins as well as for those of the people. (Hebrews 5:3 ISV)
Could a high priest appoint himself? Was he appointed by God?
And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. (Hebrews 5:4 KJV)
How does this relate to Jesus? What Old Testament passages refer to Christ in this regard?
In this way also Christ did not glorify Himself to become a high priest, but He who said to Him, “You are My Son, Today I have begotten You”; just as He says also in another passage, “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 5:5-6 LSB Psalm 2:7; 110:4)
What did Jesus become the source of? Is that salvation, offered to those who have faith “alone,” without obedience, or for all those who obey Him?
In the days of His humanity, He offered up both prayers and pleas with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His devout behavior. Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey Him, being designated by God as High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 5:7-10 NASB)
Were they like many Christians, unable to digest solid food, only able to deal with spiritual baby food? What about us?
We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (Hebrews 5:11-14 NIV)
Is Jesus a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek? Did He become the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him? Are we living on the milk of the word or are we mature enough in the faith for meat? You decide!
Our Eternal Rest (Hebrews 4)
Did the Sabbath rest and Israel’s rest from Egyptian slavery in the land of promise picture a better rest and a better promised land in eternity? Do we who have believed enter that rest? Why did a generation rest on the day of rest, but not enter the land of rest? Is there a rest that another Joshua, Jesus, invites us to? Let’s find out in Hebrews 4.
Do we find true rest on a Sabbath day or in a land? Is there a land anywhere in this world where we can find true rest from all evils? Is our true rest a day, the land or an eternal rest?
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. (Hebrews 4:1 KJV)
Was good news given to them and us? Even though it was better news and an eternal land of promise for us?
For indeed we have had good news proclaimed to us, just as they also; but the word that was heard did not profit those who were not united with faith among those who heard. For we who have believed enter that rest, just as He has said, “As I swore in My wrath, They shall not enter My rest,” although His works were finished from the foundation of the world. (Hebrews 4:2-3 LSB Psalm 95:11)
Was there a sabbath rest? Was there a land of rest that a sabbath keeping people were not allowed to enter?
For He has said somewhere concerning the seventh day: “And God rested on the seventh day from all His works”; and again in this passage, “They certainly shall not enter My rest.” (Hebrews 4:4-5 NASB)
Does it still remain for some to enter a figurative land of rest? Was disobedience the reason why they did not enter that literal land of rest?
Therefore since it still remains for some to enter that rest, and since those who formerly had the good news proclaimed to them did not go in because of their disobedience, God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 4:6-7 NIV)
Did Joshua give a Sabbath keeping people, who entered the land of rest, true rest? Is there another day and another rest for the people of God? Is there a rest from our own worldly works? If Joshua led Israel into the land of rest but not to a true rest, does there remain another rest and another Joshua, (Yeshua) Jesus?
For if Joshua had given them rest, then He would not afterward have spoken of another day. There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. (Hebrews 4:8-10 NKJV)
Did Jesus speak of another rest not in a day, not in a land, but in Himself?
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV)
To enter that eternal land of rest and that eternal day of rest, should we do our best to obey or disobey God?
So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall. (Hebrews 4:11 NLT)
Does the word of God open our eyes to what’s in our hearts? Does God see all?
For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart. There is no creature that is hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him to whom we must give an account. (Hebrews 4:12-13 WEB)
What should we hold fast? Does Jesus understand our situations?
Also, let’s hold on to the confession since we have a great high priest who passed through the heavens, who is Jesus, God’s Son; because we don’t have a high priest who can’t sympathize with our weaknesses but instead one who was tempted in every way that we are, except without sin. (Hebrews 4:14-15 CEB)
What should we do when we are in need? Should we go to God?
So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved grace, and we will find help. (Hebrews 4:16 CEV)
Did the Sabbath rest and Israel’s rest from Egyptian slavery in the land of promise picture a better rest and a better promised land in eternity? Do we who have believed enter that rest? Why did a generation rest on the day of rest, but not enter the land of rest? Why did those who entered the land of rest not find rest? Is there a rest that another Joshua, Jesus, invites us to? You decide!
Do we find true rest on a Sabbath day or in a land? Is there a land anywhere in this world where we can find true rest from all evils? Is our true rest a day, the land or an eternal rest?
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. (Hebrews 4:1 KJV)
Was good news given to them and us? Even though it was better news and an eternal land of promise for us?
For indeed we have had good news proclaimed to us, just as they also; but the word that was heard did not profit those who were not united with faith among those who heard. For we who have believed enter that rest, just as He has said, “As I swore in My wrath, They shall not enter My rest,” although His works were finished from the foundation of the world. (Hebrews 4:2-3 LSB Psalm 95:11)
Was there a sabbath rest? Was there a land of rest that a sabbath keeping people were not allowed to enter?
For He has said somewhere concerning the seventh day: “And God rested on the seventh day from all His works”; and again in this passage, “They certainly shall not enter My rest.” (Hebrews 4:4-5 NASB)
Does it still remain for some to enter a figurative land of rest? Was disobedience the reason why they did not enter that literal land of rest?
Therefore since it still remains for some to enter that rest, and since those who formerly had the good news proclaimed to them did not go in because of their disobedience, God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 4:6-7 NIV)
Did Joshua give a Sabbath keeping people, who entered the land of rest, true rest? Is there another day and another rest for the people of God? Is there a rest from our own worldly works? If Joshua led Israel into the land of rest but not to a true rest, does there remain another rest and another Joshua, (Yeshua) Jesus?
For if Joshua had given them rest, then He would not afterward have spoken of another day. There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. (Hebrews 4:8-10 NKJV)
Did Jesus speak of another rest not in a day, not in a land, but in Himself?
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV)
To enter that eternal land of rest and that eternal day of rest, should we do our best to obey or disobey God?
So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall. (Hebrews 4:11 NLT)
Does the word of God open our eyes to what’s in our hearts? Does God see all?
For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart. There is no creature that is hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him to whom we must give an account. (Hebrews 4:12-13 WEB)
What should we hold fast? Does Jesus understand our situations?
Also, let’s hold on to the confession since we have a great high priest who passed through the heavens, who is Jesus, God’s Son; because we don’t have a high priest who can’t sympathize with our weaknesses but instead one who was tempted in every way that we are, except without sin. (Hebrews 4:14-15 CEB)
What should we do when we are in need? Should we go to God?
So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved grace, and we will find help. (Hebrews 4:16 CEV)
Did the Sabbath rest and Israel’s rest from Egyptian slavery in the land of promise picture a better rest and a better promised land in eternity? Do we who have believed enter that rest? Why did a generation rest on the day of rest, but not enter the land of rest? Why did those who entered the land of rest not find rest? Is there a rest that another Joshua, Jesus, invites us to? You decide!
The Land of Rest (Hebrews 3)
Did a generation that kept a weekly rest day, NOT find rest in the land of promise? Was it because of their lack of faith, evidenced by their disobedience? Let’s find out in Hebrews 3.
Upon whom should we fix our thoughts? Was Jesus also an apostle, one sent, in His case sent from heaven?
Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest. (Hebrews 3:1 NIV)
Was Jesus faithful to God? Was Moses faithful?
[Jesus] who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house. (Hebrews 3:2 NKJV)
Does Jesus deserve more glory than Moses? Was Jesus, as God the Son, the builder of everything?
But Jesus deserves far more glory than Moses, just as a person who builds a house deserves more praise than the house itself. For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God. (Hebrews 3:3-4 NLT)
How are we Christ’s house, by membership in an exclusive church led by men, or holding fast to our confidence and hope?
Moses indeed was faithful in all his house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were afterward to be spoken, but Christ is faithful as a Son over his house. We are his house, if we hold fast our confidence and the glorying of our hope firm to the end. (Hebrews 3:5-6 WEB)
Under Moses, these recently freed slaves entered into rest each Sabbath day, so was there another rest that they were denied? Were they denied a land of rest because of their rebellion?
So, as the Holy Spirit says, Today, if you hear his voice, don’t have stubborn hearts as they did in the rebellion, on the day when they tested me in the desert. That is where your ancestors challenged and tested me, though they had seen my work for forty years. So I was angry with them. I said, “Their hearts always go off course, and they don’t know my ways.” Because of my anger I swore: “They will never enter my rest!” (Hebrews 3:7-11 CEB Psalm 95:7-11)
Could we also easily fall into rebellion? Should we encourage one another daily? Will we hold tightly to our faith until the end?
My friends, watch out! Don't let evil thoughts or doubts make any of you turn from the living God. You must encourage one another each day. And you must keep on while there is still a time that can be called “today.” If you don't, then sin may fool some of you and make you stubborn. We were sure about Christ when we first became his people. So let's hold tightly to our faith until the end. (Hebrews 3:12-14 CEV)
What warning from the Psalms does the writer include? Is it a warning for today?
As it is said, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (Hebrews 3:15 ESV Psalm 95:7-8)
Is not being allowed to enter a rest in the land of promise linked to their rebellion against what they heard?
For who heard and rebelled? Wasn’t it really all who came out of Egypt under Moses? And who was He provoked with for 40 years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? (Hebrews 3:16-17 HCSB)
Why did a Sabbath keeping people not enter the rest of the promised land? Are disobedience and unbelief connected?
And to whom did he swear that they would never enter his rest? It was to those who disobeyed him, was it not? So we see that they were unable to enter because of their unbelief. (Hebrews 3:18-19 ISV)
Did a generation that kept a weekly rest day, NOT find rest in the land of promise? Was it because of their lack of faith, evidenced by their disobedience? You decide!
Upon whom should we fix our thoughts? Was Jesus also an apostle, one sent, in His case sent from heaven?
Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest. (Hebrews 3:1 NIV)
Was Jesus faithful to God? Was Moses faithful?
[Jesus] who was faithful to Him who appointed Him, as Moses also was faithful in all His house. (Hebrews 3:2 NKJV)
Does Jesus deserve more glory than Moses? Was Jesus, as God the Son, the builder of everything?
But Jesus deserves far more glory than Moses, just as a person who builds a house deserves more praise than the house itself. For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God. (Hebrews 3:3-4 NLT)
How are we Christ’s house, by membership in an exclusive church led by men, or holding fast to our confidence and hope?
Moses indeed was faithful in all his house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were afterward to be spoken, but Christ is faithful as a Son over his house. We are his house, if we hold fast our confidence and the glorying of our hope firm to the end. (Hebrews 3:5-6 WEB)
Under Moses, these recently freed slaves entered into rest each Sabbath day, so was there another rest that they were denied? Were they denied a land of rest because of their rebellion?
So, as the Holy Spirit says, Today, if you hear his voice, don’t have stubborn hearts as they did in the rebellion, on the day when they tested me in the desert. That is where your ancestors challenged and tested me, though they had seen my work for forty years. So I was angry with them. I said, “Their hearts always go off course, and they don’t know my ways.” Because of my anger I swore: “They will never enter my rest!” (Hebrews 3:7-11 CEB Psalm 95:7-11)
Could we also easily fall into rebellion? Should we encourage one another daily? Will we hold tightly to our faith until the end?
My friends, watch out! Don't let evil thoughts or doubts make any of you turn from the living God. You must encourage one another each day. And you must keep on while there is still a time that can be called “today.” If you don't, then sin may fool some of you and make you stubborn. We were sure about Christ when we first became his people. So let's hold tightly to our faith until the end. (Hebrews 3:12-14 CEV)
What warning from the Psalms does the writer include? Is it a warning for today?
As it is said, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (Hebrews 3:15 ESV Psalm 95:7-8)
Is not being allowed to enter a rest in the land of promise linked to their rebellion against what they heard?
For who heard and rebelled? Wasn’t it really all who came out of Egypt under Moses? And who was He provoked with for 40 years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness? (Hebrews 3:16-17 HCSB)
Why did a Sabbath keeping people not enter the rest of the promised land? Are disobedience and unbelief connected?
And to whom did he swear that they would never enter his rest? It was to those who disobeyed him, was it not? So we see that they were unable to enter because of their unbelief. (Hebrews 3:18-19 ISV)
Did a generation that kept a weekly rest day, NOT find rest in the land of promise? Was it because of their lack of faith, evidenced by their disobedience? You decide!
Jesus High Priest (Hebrews 2)
Must we pay much closer attention to what we have heard about Jesus, so that we do not drift? How will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? Did Jesus taste death for everyone? Is Jesus ashamed to call us brothers and sisters? Did Jesus partake of flesh and blood so that through death He might free us from death? Let’s find out in Hebrews 2.
How important is it to pay attention to the Gospel taught by Jesus and the Apostles? Is there a danger of drifting away from the truth?
This is why it’s necessary for us to pay more attention to what we have heard, or else we may drift away from it. (Hebrews 2:1 CEB)
Was the message spoken by angels and the Lord? To whom did He give His Holy Spirit?
The message spoken by angels proved to be true, and all who disobeyed or rejected it were punished as they deserved. So if we refuse this great way of being saved, how can we hope to escape? The Lord himself was the first to tell about it, and people who heard the message proved to us that it was true. God himself showed that his message was true by working all kinds of powerful miracles and wonders. He also gave his Holy Spirit to anyone he chose to. (Hebrews 2:2-4 CEV)
Who will inherit the world to come, humanity or angels?
For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. It has been testified somewhere, “What is man, that you are mindful of him, or the son of man, that you care for him? You made him for a little while lower than the angels; you have crowned him with glory and honor, putting everything in subjection under his feet.” (Hebrews 2:5-8 ESV Psalm 8:4-6)
Was Jesus made temporarily lower than the angels? Why is He now crowned with glory and honor?
But we do see Jesus—made lower than the angels for a short time so that by God’s grace He might taste death for everyone—crowned with glory and honor because of His suffering in death. (Hebrews 2:9 HCSB)
Do we have the same Father? Does Jesus call us brothers and sisters?
It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through suffering as part of his plan to glorify many children, because both the one who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified all have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers when he says, “I will announce your name to my brothers. I will praise you within the congregation.” And again, “I will trust him.” And again, “I am here with the children God has given me.” (Hebrews 2:10-13 ISV Isaiah 8:17-18 LXX)
What kind of loving God partakes of death to deliver humanity from death?
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. (Hebrews 2:14-15 KJV)
Do we need salvation from death? Did Jesus reconcile us to God?
For assuredly He does not give help to angels, but He gives help to the seed of Abraham. Therefore, He had to be made like His brothers in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation [reconciliation, atonement] for the sins of the people. (Hebrews 2:16-17 LSB)
Though He never gave into temptation, can Jesus help us who are tempted?
For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted. (Hebrews 2:18 NASB)
Must we pay much closer attention to what we have heard about Jesus, so that we do not drift? How will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? Did Jesus taste death for everyone? Is Jesus ashamed to call us brothers and sisters? Did Jesus partake of flesh and blood so that through death He might free us from death? You decide!
How important is it to pay attention to the Gospel taught by Jesus and the Apostles? Is there a danger of drifting away from the truth?
This is why it’s necessary for us to pay more attention to what we have heard, or else we may drift away from it. (Hebrews 2:1 CEB)
Was the message spoken by angels and the Lord? To whom did He give His Holy Spirit?
The message spoken by angels proved to be true, and all who disobeyed or rejected it were punished as they deserved. So if we refuse this great way of being saved, how can we hope to escape? The Lord himself was the first to tell about it, and people who heard the message proved to us that it was true. God himself showed that his message was true by working all kinds of powerful miracles and wonders. He also gave his Holy Spirit to anyone he chose to. (Hebrews 2:2-4 CEV)
Who will inherit the world to come, humanity or angels?
For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. It has been testified somewhere, “What is man, that you are mindful of him, or the son of man, that you care for him? You made him for a little while lower than the angels; you have crowned him with glory and honor, putting everything in subjection under his feet.” (Hebrews 2:5-8 ESV Psalm 8:4-6)
Was Jesus made temporarily lower than the angels? Why is He now crowned with glory and honor?
But we do see Jesus—made lower than the angels for a short time so that by God’s grace He might taste death for everyone—crowned with glory and honor because of His suffering in death. (Hebrews 2:9 HCSB)
Do we have the same Father? Does Jesus call us brothers and sisters?
It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through suffering as part of his plan to glorify many children, because both the one who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified all have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers when he says, “I will announce your name to my brothers. I will praise you within the congregation.” And again, “I will trust him.” And again, “I am here with the children God has given me.” (Hebrews 2:10-13 ISV Isaiah 8:17-18 LXX)
What kind of loving God partakes of death to deliver humanity from death?
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. (Hebrews 2:14-15 KJV)
Do we need salvation from death? Did Jesus reconcile us to God?
For assuredly He does not give help to angels, but He gives help to the seed of Abraham. Therefore, He had to be made like His brothers in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation [reconciliation, atonement] for the sins of the people. (Hebrews 2:16-17 LSB)
Though He never gave into temptation, can Jesus help us who are tempted?
For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted. (Hebrews 2:18 NASB)
Must we pay much closer attention to what we have heard about Jesus, so that we do not drift? How will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? Did Jesus taste death for everyone? Is Jesus ashamed to call us brothers and sisters? Did Jesus partake of flesh and blood so that through death He might free us from death? You decide!
God the Son (Hebrews 1)
Ancient witnesses attributed the letter to the Hebrews to Paul. Modern scholars tend to be skeptics, even discounting testimony. Hebrews addresses the question of who is Jesus? Is Jesus higher than the angels? Do angels worship Him? Is the Son also called God? Did Jesus taste death for everyone? Did a Sabbath keeping people not find rest? Do we who have believed enter that rest?
Is Jesus a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek? Should we eventually move on beyond very basic Christian doctrines to deeper things? Is Jesus the perfect high priest? What does the new covenant place in our hearts? Was the earthly tabernacle a picture of heaven? Was the law a shadow of the good things to come? Did the patriarchs and matriarchs have a faith that pleased God before the law? Does the Lord discipline those He loves? Have we come to the city of the living God? How important are love and hospitality in a church? Let’s begin.
Hebrews 1 God the Son
Is Jesus higher than the angels? Do angels worship Him? Is the Son called God? Who is His God? Did Jesus lay the foundation of the earth? Is there a huge difference between Jesus and the angels? Let’s find out in Hebrews 1.
Who is Jesus? Is He the heir of all things? Was He instrumental in creation?
God, having spoken long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days spoke to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds, (Hebrews 1:1-2 LSB)
Whose nature is He an exact representation of? Where does He sit? Is He above the angels in stature?
And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, to the extent that He has inherited a more excellent name than they. (Hebrews 1:3-4 NASB)
Why is He above angels? Why is He worshiped? Is He also God along with the Father? Does the author quote the Old Testament extensively throughout this section to prove the divinity of Jesus? Was Jesus Michael the Archangel as some non-Christian cults claim?
For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father”? Or again, “I will be his Father, and he will be my Son”? And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.” (Hebrews 1:5-6 NIV Psalm 2:7; 2 Samuel 7:14; 1 Chronicles 17:13; Deuteronomy 32:43; Psalm 97:7 LXX)
Does God call the Son God? Is the Father also called His God?
And of the angels He says: “Who makes His angels spirits And His ministers a flame of fire.” But to the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” (Hebrews 1:7-9 NKJV Psalm 104:4; 45:6-7)
Who laid the foundation of the earth? Who will remain forever?
He also says to the Son, “In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundation of the earth and made the heavens with your hands. They will perish, but you remain forever. They will wear out like old clothing. You will fold them up like a cloak and discard them like old clothing. But you are always the same; you will live forever.” (Hebrews 1:10-12 NLT Psalm 102:25-27)
What are the angels? Are they serving spirits?
But which of the angels has he told at any time, “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies the footstool of your feet?” Aren’t they all serving spirits, sent out to do service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:13-14 WEB Psalm 110:1)
Is Jesus higher than the angels? Do angels worship Him? Is the Son called God? Who is His God? Did Jesus lay the foundation of the earth? Is there a huge difference between Jesus and the angels? You decide!
Is Jesus a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek? Should we eventually move on beyond very basic Christian doctrines to deeper things? Is Jesus the perfect high priest? What does the new covenant place in our hearts? Was the earthly tabernacle a picture of heaven? Was the law a shadow of the good things to come? Did the patriarchs and matriarchs have a faith that pleased God before the law? Does the Lord discipline those He loves? Have we come to the city of the living God? How important are love and hospitality in a church? Let’s begin.
Hebrews 1 God the Son
Is Jesus higher than the angels? Do angels worship Him? Is the Son called God? Who is His God? Did Jesus lay the foundation of the earth? Is there a huge difference between Jesus and the angels? Let’s find out in Hebrews 1.
Who is Jesus? Is He the heir of all things? Was He instrumental in creation?
God, having spoken long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days spoke to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds, (Hebrews 1:1-2 LSB)
Whose nature is He an exact representation of? Where does He sit? Is He above the angels in stature?
And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, to the extent that He has inherited a more excellent name than they. (Hebrews 1:3-4 NASB)
Why is He above angels? Why is He worshiped? Is He also God along with the Father? Does the author quote the Old Testament extensively throughout this section to prove the divinity of Jesus? Was Jesus Michael the Archangel as some non-Christian cults claim?
For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father”? Or again, “I will be his Father, and he will be my Son”? And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.” (Hebrews 1:5-6 NIV Psalm 2:7; 2 Samuel 7:14; 1 Chronicles 17:13; Deuteronomy 32:43; Psalm 97:7 LXX)
Does God call the Son God? Is the Father also called His God?
And of the angels He says: “Who makes His angels spirits And His ministers a flame of fire.” But to the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” (Hebrews 1:7-9 NKJV Psalm 104:4; 45:6-7)
Who laid the foundation of the earth? Who will remain forever?
He also says to the Son, “In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundation of the earth and made the heavens with your hands. They will perish, but you remain forever. They will wear out like old clothing. You will fold them up like a cloak and discard them like old clothing. But you are always the same; you will live forever.” (Hebrews 1:10-12 NLT Psalm 102:25-27)
What are the angels? Are they serving spirits?
But which of the angels has he told at any time, “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies the footstool of your feet?” Aren’t they all serving spirits, sent out to do service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:13-14 WEB Psalm 110:1)
Is Jesus higher than the angels? Do angels worship Him? Is the Son called God? Who is His God? Did Jesus lay the foundation of the earth? Is there a huge difference between Jesus and the angels? You decide!
A Plea for Onesimus (Philemon)
How do we act as Christians in the midst of political and social corruption? How should Philemon handle the delicate matter of a runaway slave, now converted and a brother in Christ, yet who was still under some kind of legal obligation to serve out his term as a slave? Was Philemon the host of a house church? Were the hearts of the saints refreshed through him? Was Onesimus once useless but now a brother in the faith? Was Paul pleading for mercy on behalf of this former slave? How should we treat each other? Let’s find out in the letter to Philemon.
Who wrote this letter? Who was it to? Was he the host of a house church?
Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon, our beloved fellow worker, to the beloved Apphia, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the assembly in your house: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philemon 1-3 WEB)
What praise did Paul and Timothy have of Philemon? Did he refresh the people in the church? Did Paul approach this delicate situation with all apostolic authority or as a friend pleading on behalf of a brother?
Philemon, I thank my God every time I mention you in my prayers because I’ve heard of your love and faithfulness, which you have both for the Lord Jesus and for all God’s people. I pray that your partnership in the faith might become effective by an understanding of all that is good among us in Christ. I have great joy and encouragement because of your love, since the hearts of God’s people are refreshed by your actions, my brother. (Philemon 4-7 CEB)
Who did Paul make an appeal to? On whose behalf? Onesimus means useful. Was he once useless for some reason?
Christ gives me the courage to tell you what to do. But I would rather ask you to do it simply because of love. Yes, as someone in jail for Christ, I beg you to help Onesimus! He is like a son to me because I led him to Christ here in jail. Before this, he was useless to you, but now he is useful both to you and to me. (Philemon 8-11 CEV)
Is Onesimus going back to Philemon? Did Paul compel Philemon or let him make his own mind up?
I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart. I would have been glad to keep him with me, in order that he might serve me on your behalf during my imprisonment for the gospel, but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord. (Philemon 12-14 ESV)
Was Onesimus Philemon’s slave, who has through baptism, now become his brother?
For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but even more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. (Philemon 15-16 HCSB)
How does Paul encourage Philemon to treat his former slave? In a world without welfare, being a slave to a good master was often a means of security.
So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to my account. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand: I will repay it. (I will not mention to you that you owe me your very life.) Yes, brother, I desire this favor from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in the Messiah! Confident of your obedience, I am writing to you because I know that you will do even more than I ask. (Philemon 17-21 ISV)
Does Paul expect to see him soon? Was Philemon known for his hospitality?
But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. (Philemon 22-25 KJV)
How do we act as Christians in the midst of political and social corruption? How should Philemon handle the delicate matter of a runaway slave, now converted and a brother in Christ, yet who was still under some kind of legal obligation to serve out his term as a slave? Was Philemon the host of a house church? Were the hearts of the saints refreshed through him? Was Onesimus once useless but now a brother in the faith? Was Paul pleading for mercy on behalf of this former slave? How should we treat each other? You decide!
Who wrote this letter? Who was it to? Was he the host of a house church?
Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon, our beloved fellow worker, to the beloved Apphia, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the assembly in your house: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philemon 1-3 WEB)
What praise did Paul and Timothy have of Philemon? Did he refresh the people in the church? Did Paul approach this delicate situation with all apostolic authority or as a friend pleading on behalf of a brother?
Philemon, I thank my God every time I mention you in my prayers because I’ve heard of your love and faithfulness, which you have both for the Lord Jesus and for all God’s people. I pray that your partnership in the faith might become effective by an understanding of all that is good among us in Christ. I have great joy and encouragement because of your love, since the hearts of God’s people are refreshed by your actions, my brother. (Philemon 4-7 CEB)
Who did Paul make an appeal to? On whose behalf? Onesimus means useful. Was he once useless for some reason?
Christ gives me the courage to tell you what to do. But I would rather ask you to do it simply because of love. Yes, as someone in jail for Christ, I beg you to help Onesimus! He is like a son to me because I led him to Christ here in jail. Before this, he was useless to you, but now he is useful both to you and to me. (Philemon 8-11 CEV)
Is Onesimus going back to Philemon? Did Paul compel Philemon or let him make his own mind up?
I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart. I would have been glad to keep him with me, in order that he might serve me on your behalf during my imprisonment for the gospel, but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord. (Philemon 12-14 ESV)
Was Onesimus Philemon’s slave, who has through baptism, now become his brother?
For perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a brief time, so that you might get him back permanently, no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dearly loved brother. He is especially so to me, but even more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. (Philemon 15-16 HCSB)
How does Paul encourage Philemon to treat his former slave? In a world without welfare, being a slave to a good master was often a means of security.
So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to my account. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand: I will repay it. (I will not mention to you that you owe me your very life.) Yes, brother, I desire this favor from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in the Messiah! Confident of your obedience, I am writing to you because I know that you will do even more than I ask. (Philemon 17-21 ISV)
Does Paul expect to see him soon? Was Philemon known for his hospitality?
But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. (Philemon 22-25 KJV)
How do we act as Christians in the midst of political and social corruption? How should Philemon handle the delicate matter of a runaway slave, now converted and a brother in Christ, yet who was still under some kind of legal obligation to serve out his term as a slave? Was Philemon the host of a house church? Were the hearts of the saints refreshed through him? Was Onesimus once useless but now a brother in the faith? Was Paul pleading for mercy on behalf of this former slave? How should we treat each other? You decide!
Avoid Foolish Disputes (Titus 3)
Do Christians submit to human governments? Do we avoid slander and quarrels? Did Jesus save us because of the righteous things we had done, or because of His mercy? Do Christians devote themselves to doing good? Should we avoid foolish discussions? How many chances should we give those causing divisions before avoiding them? Let’s find out in Titus 3.
How should Christians act towards their governments? What kind of work ought Christians be ready and willing to do?
Remind believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, and to be ready to do any honorable kind of work. (Titus 3:1 ISV)
Should Christians insult others and argue? Should we gossip about people?
To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. (Titus 3:2 KJV)
Were we once like this description of people with worldly attitudes?
For we ourselves also once were foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, despicable, hating one another. (Titus 3:3 LSB)
Were we saved by our good deeds or in accordance with God’s mercy?
But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we did in righteousness, but in accordance with His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He richly poured out upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7 NASB)
Though we are not saved by good works, should we devote ourselves to good works?
This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. (Titus 3:8 NIV)
What should any of us avoid? How many warnings should we give a divisive person before avoiding them altogether?
But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless. Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned. (Titus 3:9-11 NKJV)
Did Paul have many people he could rely upon? Must people learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others? Did Paul greet many who loved him?
I am planning to send either Artemas or Tychicus to you. As soon as one of them arrives, do your best to meet me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to stay there for the winter. Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive. Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers—all who love us. May God’s grace be with you all. (Titus 3:12-15 NLT)
Do Christians submit to human governments? Do we avoid slander and quarrels? Did Jesus save us because of the righteous things we had done, or because of His mercy? Do Christians devote themselves to doing good? Should we avoid foolish discussions? How many chances should we give those causing divisions before avoiding them? You decide!
How should Christians act towards their governments? What kind of work ought Christians be ready and willing to do?
Remind believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, and to be ready to do any honorable kind of work. (Titus 3:1 ISV)
Should Christians insult others and argue? Should we gossip about people?
To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. (Titus 3:2 KJV)
Were we once like this description of people with worldly attitudes?
For we ourselves also once were foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, despicable, hating one another. (Titus 3:3 LSB)
Were we saved by our good deeds or in accordance with God’s mercy?
But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we did in righteousness, but in accordance with His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He richly poured out upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7 NASB)
Though we are not saved by good works, should we devote ourselves to good works?
This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. (Titus 3:8 NIV)
What should any of us avoid? How many warnings should we give a divisive person before avoiding them altogether?
But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless. Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned. (Titus 3:9-11 NKJV)
Did Paul have many people he could rely upon? Must people learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others? Did Paul greet many who loved him?
I am planning to send either Artemas or Tychicus to you. As soon as one of them arrives, do your best to meet me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to stay there for the winter. Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive. Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers—all who love us. May God’s grace be with you all. (Titus 3:12-15 NLT)
Do Christians submit to human governments? Do we avoid slander and quarrels? Did Jesus save us because of the righteous things we had done, or because of His mercy? Do Christians devote themselves to doing good? Should we avoid foolish discussions? How many chances should we give those causing divisions before avoiding them? You decide!
Sound Doctrine (Titus 2)
What is sound doctrine for men and women? What should older women teach younger women? What is sound doctrine for young men and slaves? What kind of good works does salvation exhibit in us? Let’s find out in Titus 2.
What should a preacher do? What is sound doctrine or teaching?
But as for you, proclaim the things which are fitting for sound doctrine. (Titus 2:1 NASB)
How should the older men in the church behave?
Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. (Titus 2:2 NIV)
How should the older women in the church behave?
the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— (Titus 2:3 NKJV)
What is some sound doctrine that older women can teach younger women?
These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God. (Titus 2:4-5 NLT)
What is sound doctrine that can be taught to young men?
Likewise, exhort the younger men to be sober minded. (Titus 2:6 WEB)
Some translations put the phrase “in every way” with the last sentence in verse 6. Some put it with the first sentence in verse 7. Let’s leave that to the experts. How should Titus set an example? Should all church leaders lead by example?
in every way. Offer yourself as a role model of good actions. Show integrity, seriousness, and a sound message that is above criticism when you teach, so that any opponent will be ashamed because they won’t find anything bad to say about us. (Titus 2:7-8 CEB)
This is not tacit approval of Roman forms of slavery, but advice to those who are stuck in that system. In those days, it was about half of the population. What is sound doctrine for slaves? Is this also a principle of sound doctrine for modern employees?
Tell slaves always to please their owners by obeying them in everything. Slaves must not talk back to their owners or steal from them. They must be completely honest and trustworthy. Then everyone will show great respect for what is taught about God our Savior. (Titus 2:9-10 CEV)
Did Jesus bring salvation for all people, if they so choose? What does Jesus want us to be zealous about?
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. (Titus 2:11-14 ESV)
Should a preacher both encourage and rebuke, or just encourage?
Say these things, and encourage and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you. (Titus 2:15 HCSB)
What is sound doctrine for men and women? What should older women teach younger women? What is sound doctrine for young men and slaves? What kind of good works does salvation exhibit in us? You decide!
What should a preacher do? What is sound doctrine or teaching?
But as for you, proclaim the things which are fitting for sound doctrine. (Titus 2:1 NASB)
How should the older men in the church behave?
Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. (Titus 2:2 NIV)
How should the older women in the church behave?
the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— (Titus 2:3 NKJV)
What is some sound doctrine that older women can teach younger women?
These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God. (Titus 2:4-5 NLT)
What is sound doctrine that can be taught to young men?
Likewise, exhort the younger men to be sober minded. (Titus 2:6 WEB)
Some translations put the phrase “in every way” with the last sentence in verse 6. Some put it with the first sentence in verse 7. Let’s leave that to the experts. How should Titus set an example? Should all church leaders lead by example?
in every way. Offer yourself as a role model of good actions. Show integrity, seriousness, and a sound message that is above criticism when you teach, so that any opponent will be ashamed because they won’t find anything bad to say about us. (Titus 2:7-8 CEB)
This is not tacit approval of Roman forms of slavery, but advice to those who are stuck in that system. In those days, it was about half of the population. What is sound doctrine for slaves? Is this also a principle of sound doctrine for modern employees?
Tell slaves always to please their owners by obeying them in everything. Slaves must not talk back to their owners or steal from them. They must be completely honest and trustworthy. Then everyone will show great respect for what is taught about God our Savior. (Titus 2:9-10 CEV)
Did Jesus bring salvation for all people, if they so choose? What does Jesus want us to be zealous about?
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. (Titus 2:11-14 ESV)
Should a preacher both encourage and rebuke, or just encourage?
Say these things, and encourage and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you. (Titus 2:15 HCSB)
What is sound doctrine for men and women? What should older women teach younger women? What is sound doctrine for young men and slaves? What kind of good works does salvation exhibit in us? You decide!
Elders (Titus 1)
Did Paul describe himself as a slave of God? Was the church’s faith based on the hope of eternal life? Are the qualifications for elders in Titus similar to those in 1 Timothy 3? Do our works speak well of us? What is sound doctrine? What kind of good works does salvation exhibit in us? Do Christians submit to the government? Should we avoid slander and quarreling? Did Jesus save us because of the righteous things we had done, or because of His mercy? Do Christians devote themselves to doing good works? Should we avoid foolish discussions? How many chances should we give those causing divisions before we avoid them? Let’s discuss these things in Paul’s letter to Titus.
Titus 1 Elders
Is our faith based on the hope of eternal life? Are our elders qualified? Are we unruly and vain talkers and deceivers? Are all things pure to us? Do our works speak well of us? Let’s begin in Titus 1.
Many Bible translations are reluctant to use the word slave, because it is so misunderstood in western culture. People suppose that the Bible supports the brutal kidnapping based slavery in recent history. It does not. In fact, kidnapping was a capital crime in ancient Israel.
People are also ignorant of the fact that in ancient times prisoners doing hard labor for crimes committed were also called slaves. Apprentices committed themselves to a limited time and were often called slaves for those years of apprenticeship. People who owed money once sold themselves into voluntary slavery until their debt was repaid. Other moral and immoral forms of slavery also existed. How does Paul describe himself? Why was he sent?
This letter is from Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. I have been sent to proclaim faith to those God has chosen and to teach them to know the truth that shows them how to live godly lives. (Titus 1:1 NLT)
Upon what was their faith based? Does God lie?
Their faith and this knowledge are based on the hope of eternal life that God, who doesn’t lie, promised before time began. (Titus 1:2 CEB)
Who assigned Paul? What was he assigned?
So, at the proper time, God our Savior gave this message and told me to announce what he had said. (Titus 1:3 CEV)
Who was the letter addressed to? What was his relationship to Paul like?
To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior. (Titus 1:4 ESV)
Had the churches grown to the point that elders were needed? Was that one elder in every town or a plurality?
The reason I left you in Crete was to set right what was left undone and, as I directed you, to appoint elders in every town: (Titus 1:5 HCSB)
Are these qualifications in the same spirit as those in 1 Timothy 3? Is the word elder (or presbyter) used as a synonym for overseer (or bishop or the episcopacy)?
An elder must be blameless. He must be the husband of one wife and have children who are believers and who are not accused of having wild lifestyles or of being rebellious. Because an overseer is God’s servant manager, he must be blameless. He must not be arrogant or irritable. He must not drink too much, be a violent person, or make money in shameful ways. Instead, he must be hospitable to strangers, must appreciate what is good, and be sensible, honest, moral, and self-controlled. He must be devoted to the trustworthy message that agrees with what we teach, so that he may be able to encourage others with healthy doctrine and refute those who oppose it. (Titus 1:6-9 ISV)
Does Paul sharply warn of dangers from two different people groups? Would that be considered politically correct today? Have the ancient churches added “commandments of men” on top of what Jesus and the apostles taught? Have Protestant churches also?
For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, the Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. (Titus 1:10-14 KJV)
Do the pure have a habit of fault-finding criticism? What do our works prove?
To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind and their conscience are defiled. They profess to know God, but by their works they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and unfit for any good work. (Titus 1:15-16 LSB)
Is our faith based on the hope of eternal life? Are our elders qualified? Are we unruly and vain talkers and deceivers? Are all things pure to us? Do our works speak well of us? You decide!
Titus 1 Elders
Is our faith based on the hope of eternal life? Are our elders qualified? Are we unruly and vain talkers and deceivers? Are all things pure to us? Do our works speak well of us? Let’s begin in Titus 1.
Many Bible translations are reluctant to use the word slave, because it is so misunderstood in western culture. People suppose that the Bible supports the brutal kidnapping based slavery in recent history. It does not. In fact, kidnapping was a capital crime in ancient Israel.
People are also ignorant of the fact that in ancient times prisoners doing hard labor for crimes committed were also called slaves. Apprentices committed themselves to a limited time and were often called slaves for those years of apprenticeship. People who owed money once sold themselves into voluntary slavery until their debt was repaid. Other moral and immoral forms of slavery also existed. How does Paul describe himself? Why was he sent?
This letter is from Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ. I have been sent to proclaim faith to those God has chosen and to teach them to know the truth that shows them how to live godly lives. (Titus 1:1 NLT)
Upon what was their faith based? Does God lie?
Their faith and this knowledge are based on the hope of eternal life that God, who doesn’t lie, promised before time began. (Titus 1:2 CEB)
Who assigned Paul? What was he assigned?
So, at the proper time, God our Savior gave this message and told me to announce what he had said. (Titus 1:3 CEV)
Who was the letter addressed to? What was his relationship to Paul like?
To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior. (Titus 1:4 ESV)
Had the churches grown to the point that elders were needed? Was that one elder in every town or a plurality?
The reason I left you in Crete was to set right what was left undone and, as I directed you, to appoint elders in every town: (Titus 1:5 HCSB)
Are these qualifications in the same spirit as those in 1 Timothy 3? Is the word elder (or presbyter) used as a synonym for overseer (or bishop or the episcopacy)?
An elder must be blameless. He must be the husband of one wife and have children who are believers and who are not accused of having wild lifestyles or of being rebellious. Because an overseer is God’s servant manager, he must be blameless. He must not be arrogant or irritable. He must not drink too much, be a violent person, or make money in shameful ways. Instead, he must be hospitable to strangers, must appreciate what is good, and be sensible, honest, moral, and self-controlled. He must be devoted to the trustworthy message that agrees with what we teach, so that he may be able to encourage others with healthy doctrine and refute those who oppose it. (Titus 1:6-9 ISV)
Does Paul sharply warn of dangers from two different people groups? Would that be considered politically correct today? Have the ancient churches added “commandments of men” on top of what Jesus and the apostles taught? Have Protestant churches also?
For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, the Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. (Titus 1:10-14 KJV)
Do the pure have a habit of fault-finding criticism? What do our works prove?
To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind and their conscience are defiled. They profess to know God, but by their works they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and unfit for any good work. (Titus 1:15-16 LSB)
Is our faith based on the hope of eternal life? Are our elders qualified? Are we unruly and vain talkers and deceivers? Are all things pure to us? Do our works speak well of us? You decide!
Preach the Word of God (2 Timothy 4)
What should a preacher preach, topics, stories, human traditions, philosophy, reasons for people to doubt, or the word of God? Will people tolerate sound teaching? Will some complain they want smooth preaching? Will we stay faithful regardless? Let’s look in 2 Timothy 4.
Did Paul encourage Timothy to preach philosophy, fluffy stories, the traditions of men, or the word of God?
I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. (2 Timothy 4:1-2 NLT)
Will people not want to put up with sound teaching? Does that sound familiar?
There will come a time when people will not tolerate sound teaching. They will collect teachers who say what they want to hear because they are self-centered. (2 Timothy 4:3 CEB)
Is this similar to a situation described in the Old Testament?
They say to the seers, “Do not see,” and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy the truth to us. Tell us flattering things. Prophesy illusions. (Isaiah 30:10 HCSB)
What happens under such circumstances? Will they turn from the truth?
They will turn from the truth and eagerly listen to senseless stories. (2 Timothy 4:4 CEV)
Should we also follow Paul's encouragement to Timothy? Should we fulfill our ministry?
As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. (2 Timothy 4:5 ESV)
What was Paul’s attitude? Was he ready to depart this present world?
I am already being poured out as an offering, and the time for my departure has come. I have fought the good fight. I have completed the race. I have kept the faith. The victor’s crown of righteousness is now waiting for me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on the day that he comes, and not only to me but also to all who eagerly wait for his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:6-8 ISV)
Despite some abandoning him, did Paul still have faithful supporters? Do people sometimes leave our churches because they love this present world?
Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. (2 Timothy 4:9-13 KJV)
Do some not just leave quietly but also cause harm? Are faithful ministers sometimes totally abandoned by all? Must ministers learn to be forgiving of their people?
Alexander the coppersmith showed me much harm; the Lord will award him according to his deeds. Be on guard against him yourself, for he vigorously opposed our words. At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the preaching might be fulfilled, and that all the Gentiles might hear. And I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will save me unto His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Timothy 4:14-18 LSB)
Did some of Paul’s friends remain? Do they for us?
Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. Erastus remained at Corinth, but I left Trophimus sick at Miletus. Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, also Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters. (2 Timothy 4:19-21 NASB)
Experts say that the oldest manuscripts make this plural, “your spirit” (you plural) and “you all” (you plural). What then is Paul’s farewell blessing?
The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all. (2 Timothy 4:22 NIV)
What should a preacher preach, topics, stories, human traditions, philosophy, reasons for people to doubt, or the word of God? Will people tolerate sound teaching? Will some complain they want smooth preaching? Will we stay faithful regardless? You decide!
Conclusion to Timothy
What have we learned in the letters to Timothy? Are doctrines not taught by Jesus or the apostles questionable? Is love the most important doctrine? Is the law a focus of many false teachers? Did Jesus die just for an elect few, or everyone? Are gender roles oppressive or a blessing? Should wealthy Christians set their hopes on God?
Has God saved us by undeserved grace? Will we guard through the Holy Spirit that good thing which was committed to us? Should we meditate on Jesus? Do we endure all things? Are we faithful? Will difficult times come in these last days? Is all scripture God-breathed? Will some complain that they want smooth preaching? Will we stay faithful, preaching the Word of God regardless? You decide!
Did Paul encourage Timothy to preach philosophy, fluffy stories, the traditions of men, or the word of God?
I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. (2 Timothy 4:1-2 NLT)
Will people not want to put up with sound teaching? Does that sound familiar?
There will come a time when people will not tolerate sound teaching. They will collect teachers who say what they want to hear because they are self-centered. (2 Timothy 4:3 CEB)
Is this similar to a situation described in the Old Testament?
They say to the seers, “Do not see,” and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy the truth to us. Tell us flattering things. Prophesy illusions. (Isaiah 30:10 HCSB)
What happens under such circumstances? Will they turn from the truth?
They will turn from the truth and eagerly listen to senseless stories. (2 Timothy 4:4 CEV)
Should we also follow Paul's encouragement to Timothy? Should we fulfill our ministry?
As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. (2 Timothy 4:5 ESV)
What was Paul’s attitude? Was he ready to depart this present world?
I am already being poured out as an offering, and the time for my departure has come. I have fought the good fight. I have completed the race. I have kept the faith. The victor’s crown of righteousness is now waiting for me, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on the day that he comes, and not only to me but also to all who eagerly wait for his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:6-8 ISV)
Despite some abandoning him, did Paul still have faithful supporters? Do people sometimes leave our churches because they love this present world?
Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus. The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. (2 Timothy 4:9-13 KJV)
Do some not just leave quietly but also cause harm? Are faithful ministers sometimes totally abandoned by all? Must ministers learn to be forgiving of their people?
Alexander the coppersmith showed me much harm; the Lord will award him according to his deeds. Be on guard against him yourself, for he vigorously opposed our words. At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the preaching might be fulfilled, and that all the Gentiles might hear. And I was rescued out of the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will save me unto His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Timothy 4:14-18 LSB)
Did some of Paul’s friends remain? Do they for us?
Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. Erastus remained at Corinth, but I left Trophimus sick at Miletus. Make every effort to come before winter. Eubulus greets you, also Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers and sisters. (2 Timothy 4:19-21 NASB)
Experts say that the oldest manuscripts make this plural, “your spirit” (you plural) and “you all” (you plural). What then is Paul’s farewell blessing?
The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all. (2 Timothy 4:22 NIV)
What should a preacher preach, topics, stories, human traditions, philosophy, reasons for people to doubt, or the word of God? Will people tolerate sound teaching? Will some complain they want smooth preaching? Will we stay faithful regardless? You decide!
Conclusion to Timothy
What have we learned in the letters to Timothy? Are doctrines not taught by Jesus or the apostles questionable? Is love the most important doctrine? Is the law a focus of many false teachers? Did Jesus die just for an elect few, or everyone? Are gender roles oppressive or a blessing? Should wealthy Christians set their hopes on God?
Has God saved us by undeserved grace? Will we guard through the Holy Spirit that good thing which was committed to us? Should we meditate on Jesus? Do we endure all things? Are we faithful? Will difficult times come in these last days? Is all scripture God-breathed? Will some complain that they want smooth preaching? Will we stay faithful, preaching the Word of God regardless? You decide!
Dangerous Times (2 Timothy 3)
Will perilous times come in the last days? Should we avoid certain people? Did Paul suffer for preaching the truth? Do some ministers today suffer because they faithfully preach truth? Would they believe that all scripture is God-breathed? Let’s find out in 2 Timothy 3.
Are we in dangerous times? What are some of the causes? What should we do with such people?
But know this: Difficult [perilous, dangerous] times will come in the last days. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, without love for what is good, traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to the form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid these people! (2 Timothy 3:1-5 HCSB)
Are they like traveling salesmen and the devil in the garden, who would rather talk to the woman of the household because as every door to door salesman knows, she is easier to sell to than the man?
For some of these men go into homes and deceive foolish women who are burdened with sins and swayed by all kinds of desires. These women are always studying but are never able to arrive at a full knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 3:6-7 ISV)
How was Paul different? Was he just looking for an easy sale?
But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Timothy 3:10-11 KJV)
Does persecution come with living a godly life and telling the truth?
Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. (2 Timothy 3:12-13 LSB)
Did Timothy learn the scriptures from his childhood? If only all of us had such an upbringing! If only as parents we had been more diligent in teaching our children!
You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:14-15 NASB)
How was Moses inspired to record that we teach about God’s guidelines to children?
Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. (Deuteronomy 6:7 NIV)
Is all scripture inspired by God? How is it profitable? What kind of work does it equip us for?
Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 WEB)
Will difficult times come in the last days? What are some of the causes? Should we avoid certain people? Did Paul suffer for preaching the truth? Do some ministers today suffer because they faithfully preach truth? Would they believe that all scripture is God-breathed? You decide!
Are we in dangerous times? What are some of the causes? What should we do with such people?
But know this: Difficult [perilous, dangerous] times will come in the last days. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, without love for what is good, traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to the form of godliness but denying its power. Avoid these people! (2 Timothy 3:1-5 HCSB)
Are they like traveling salesmen and the devil in the garden, who would rather talk to the woman of the household because as every door to door salesman knows, she is easier to sell to than the man?
For some of these men go into homes and deceive foolish women who are burdened with sins and swayed by all kinds of desires. These women are always studying but are never able to arrive at a full knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 3:6-7 ISV)
How was Paul different? Was he just looking for an easy sale?
But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Timothy 3:10-11 KJV)
Does persecution come with living a godly life and telling the truth?
Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. (2 Timothy 3:12-13 LSB)
Did Timothy learn the scriptures from his childhood? If only all of us had such an upbringing! If only as parents we had been more diligent in teaching our children!
You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:14-15 NASB)
How was Moses inspired to record that we teach about God’s guidelines to children?
Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. (Deuteronomy 6:7 NIV)
Is all scripture inspired by God? How is it profitable? What kind of work does it equip us for?
Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 WEB)
Will difficult times come in the last days? What are some of the causes? Should we avoid certain people? Did Paul suffer for preaching the truth? Do some ministers today suffer because they faithfully preach truth? Would they believe that all scripture is God-breathed? You decide!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)