The Journey Continues

Hebrews Chapter 9

1) What did the Old Testament system of sacrificing accomplish?  What is accomplished through what Jesus did for us?

2) The Old Testament sacrificial system is full of blood.  Why is this the case?  Why was it necessary for blood to be shed in order for sacrifices to be received?

3) How often is it necessary to offer sacrifices to please God?  How many offerings are needed?

We’ve been talking about the old way to God (through the Law) versus the new way to God (through Jesus).  Chapter 9 deals with some of the details of the difference.  The old way made people ceremonially clean; but inwardly they were still a mess (9:9).  Jesus cleaned our consciences, so we are now free to serve God (9:13-14).  Jesus came in a different way (His blood) to a different place (the perfect tabernacle) with a different result (9:11, 15).

Can you imagine how much blood was shed for the sake of the Old Testament sacrificial system?  Hebrews 9 gives us a glimpse into the reason for this.  The provisions of the Law were not applied until death occurred (9:16-17).  And the evidence of death was seen in the shedding of blood.  This is why Jesus had to die.  It was His death that brought about our forgiveness (9:22).

How often does one need to sacrifice to God?  It depends on the sacrifice.  With Jesus, it was one sacrifice, one time.  In the old way, the high priest entered over and over again with blood that was not his own (9:25).  The sacrifice was endless and limited.  But Jesus came with His own, perfect blood to offer the perfect, final sacrifice.  His work is done!

Hebrews Chapter 10

1) How does God see you in light of Jesus’ sacrifice?  How do you see yourself?

2) We’ve learned a lot of great theology about Jesus thus far in the Book of Hebrews.  So what does this mean for the way we are to live today?

3) With great understanding comes great responsibility.  How does this statement apply to what we’ve learned in Hebrews?

As if to teach the lesson one final time to be sure we understand it completely, the writer of Hebrews speaks of the temporary, inadequate nature of the law (10:1-4), and the permanent, complete nature of Jesus’ sacrifice (10:5-18).  But in the midst of this discussion is this incredible truth found in verse 14: “By one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.”  Don’t miss the significance of all that we’ve been talking about.  Jesus’ death means life for you.  And not just any life; a life set apart by God for His purposes.

Through His sacrifice, Jesus opened up the way to God for us (10:19-21).  But this needs to be more than a theological understanding.  Because this is true we have the opportunity to live our lives differently.  Specifically, the writer of Hebrews gives us five things to do: draw near to God, hold on to hope, help each other love, don’t stop gathering together and encourage each other (10:22-25).  Hebrews wasn’t written just to inform, but to change the way we live.  How can you live out the words of Hebrews today?

With this great understanding of the truth comes a great responsibility to live it out.  But challenging times may cause us stumble, fall and live below the life we’ve been given.  The writer of Hebrews warns us about choosing to disregard what we know (10:26).  If we dismiss the sacrifice of Jesus, there is nothing left for us.  But more than this, the writer leaves us with a call to persevere (10:32-38).  In the midst of challenging times we have the opportunity to choose Christ and boldly live for Him.  “But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.”  (10:39)

Hebrews Chapter 11

1) What is faith all about? How do you understand it?

2) What people or things do we place our faith in?  How important is this who or what when it comes to the promises of our faith?

3) What is the time frame for the completion of our faith?  When will we realize all we hope for?

Fortunately, we don’t have to rely upon our best ideas or even Webster to know what faith is.  God gives a clear definition in Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”  Faith is our ability to count as already done that which has yet to occur.  Faith is seeing as real that which we don’t perceive with our eyes.

In the midst of telling the stories of the heroes of faith, we get another insight into an important element when discussing the issue of faith: who or what we have our faith in.  The money we have in banks is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government.  While this provides a high degree of security, this promise is still only as good as the government that makes it.  For those placing their faith in the Person and works of God, the substance of their faith is found in the very character of God.  “By faith Abraham, even though he was past age—and Sarah herself was barren—was enabled to become a father because he considered him faithful who had made the promise (11:11).” 

We are caught up in the here and now; God is focused on the hereafter.  We are short-sighted and pay attention only to today; God has a perspective that is eternal.  We live blessed lives and often find the fulfillment of our faith in this lifetime, but ultimately this is not the time or place for our faith to be fully realized.  As we read in Hebrews 11 about all the incredible things God accomplished through His people, we are interrupted by verses 13-16.  Specifically, we read this in 11:13: “All these people were still living by faith when they died.  They did not receive the things promised.”  Further, we read in verses 39-40: “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.  God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.”  Don’t let today cause you to lose sight of tomorrow.

Hebrews Chapter 12

1) What gets in the way of your running a good race of faith?  What obstacles must you overcome to be successful in this race?

2) What is discipline for?  Is discipline helpful or hurtful?  Do you welcome discipline or refuse it?

3) How should we approach God?  What should be our attitude as we come into His presence?

In Chapter 11 we walked in the midst of those who are remembered for living their lives by faith.  They experienced both tremendous joy and incredible defeat.  Yet, Chapter 11 ends with this: “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.”  Now, in Chapter 12, we are challenged to persevere.  But our ability to persevere is challenged not by things around us, but by things within us.  We are told to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles (12:1)."  We must struggle with, wrestle down and become victorious over the issue of sin in our lives.  Only then will we be able to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

The writer of Hebrews helps us understand the nature and purpose of God’s discipline.  God’s discipline is motivated by love (12:6), evidence of our relationship with Him (12:7-8), given out by the best Father (12:9), for our own good (12:10), and although not pleasant, it is productive (12:11).  We must learn to recognize, accept and learn from God’s discipline in our lives.  Receive what He is doing as He continually molds you into the image of Jesus.

We no longer relate to God from the distance with great fear as in the days of old (12:18-21).  Now, because of Jesus, we come joyfully into His presence (12:22-24).  Yet, even though we enjoy this wonderful access to our God, we must “worship God acceptably with reverence and awe (12:28).”  He is still God and we still are not.

Hebrews Chapter 13

1) How deeply do you connect with those around you?  How empathetic are you towards them?

2) What sacrifices are acceptable and pleasing to God?  What are you able to offer Him today?

3) At the end of the day, how do you want to live your life?  What would indicate success when it comes to living out your faith?

In the final chapter of Hebrews we find a rapid-fire succession of commands and reminders.  In the opening verses (13:1-3), the writer instructs us to be deeply involved with others.  The New Testament speaks over and over about our connection to, support of, and dependence upon one another.  Here we read about entering into the lives of those around us, truly becoming part of their worlds.

Indeed, because of Jesus’ death on the cross, the sacrificial system is over.  However, we are still able to offer to God sacrifices of words and deeds (13:15-16).  These sacrifices are not offered to make us right with God, but rather as expressions that we are right with God.  And note that these sacrifices include both that which we say and that which we do.

Some of the final words in the book of Hebrews are a prayer for you and me.  Here the writer prays that God would “equip you with everything good for doing his will” and that He would “work in us what is pleasing to him (13:21).”  How incredible it would be to be able to say at the end of the day and at the end of our lives that we pleased God and did His will.

2 Timothy Chapter 1

1) What are something things that you have inherited from your family?  What is part of who you are because of the family you’re in?

2) What does it take for you to continue on a strong path with your faith?  Are you aware when you’re drifting away?

3) Confidence.  What is it?  How do you get it?

2 Timothy is a personal letter from Paul to his son in the faith.  Timothy had been impacted by Paul’s ministry, traveled with him and was now the one receiving the mantle of ministry.  Paul reminds Timothy of where he came from: “I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also (1:5).”  Timothy had a spiritual heritage, a godly foundation on which to stand.  You’ve either inherited a godly foundation or have the opportunity to start one.  Either way, you have the opportunity to make a difference in your generation and the generations to come.

In this final letter before his death, Paul had to make certain that Timothy was ready and able to continue the ministry he had started.  Apparently, he had some concerns that Timothy was becoming overwhelmed with the task of leading, complacent in living out his faith or both.  It seems like the fire of his zeal was dying out (1:6), his boldness was lacking (1:7), and fear was getting the best of him (1:8).  Paul was calling him back to the place he once stood.  We need to continually realign ourselves with the path before us.

To further encourage Timothy regarding the task before him, Paul expressed his great confidence in God (1:12).  This was not some idealistic expression from a lofty place.  This was a genuine demonstration from one contemplating his upcoming execution.  Paul had lived his life sharing the good news about Jesus.  Now, near the end of his life, he speaks boldly and with certainty about God’s ability to deliver on all He had promised.  Paul had placed his life in God’s hands and was now prepared to see his faith become more real than ever.

2 Timothy Chapter 2

1) Plate spinner or laser?  What best describes the way you approach the tasks of your life?

2) How would you approach God’s Word if it came with the warning label “Handle with Care” affixed to it?

3) What must you do when you find you are heading in the wrong direction?  How do you change course in the midst of a journey?

Focus on the commander – focus on the rules – focus on the work (2:3-6).  The task before Timothy was of incredible significance.  This was nothing he was to take lightly.  And to be successful, it would take his full attention and focus.  Think about how ineffective we are because our attention and allegiance is scattered in so many ways.  Think about how productive we would be if we brought all our energies to bear on the task of incredible significance that is before us.  Imagine what it would be like if we would just focus.

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”  This challenge, found in 2:15, calls us to be diligent students of the Word.  Ours should not be a nonchalant stroll through the pages of the scriptures.  Rather, we must bring both our hearts and our minds to our time in the Bible.  It is only through knowing God’s Word that we have any chance at having the right perspective, attitude and focus to live lives that honor Him.

There are two things you must do if you find yourself going the wrong direction.  First, you must stop chasing what you are pursuing and second, you must turn toward a new destination.  Paul seems to be saying this to Timothy in 2:22.  Paul told Timothy what to turn away from and what to turn towards.  What about you?  What course corrections do you need to make?

 

2 Timothy Chapter 3

1) How are we to relate to the evil in the world?  What should our stance be around those bent away from God?

2) How well are you known by those around you?  How much about your life, your victories and your defeats do others know?

3) Why do you believe what you believe?  How did you get to the place of owning your faith?

Paul opens Chapter 3 with a warning to Timothy.  The first nine verses describe the way people will be living in the last days.  We read a rather sobering list of ungrateful, unholy, unforgiving people.  But in the middle of this list comes Paul’s clear command to Timothy: “Have nothing to do with them (3:5).”  These are not people open to the gospel whom we should be engaging with the message of truth.  Rather, people who’s minds are set against God.

After warning Timothy about those he should stay away from, Paul draws Timothy’s attention to himself.  Paul’s life was an open book.  Timothy knew what Paul had experienced having witnessed much of it himself.  As you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, be sure to allow them close enough to you to really know you and to really know about your journey with God.

At the end of Chapter 3 we find one of the most compelling passages on the nature and purpose of scripture (3:16-17).  But before Paul gets to this, he helps Timothy understand why he is able to believe God’s Word.  In verse 14 he says, “continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it.”  Timothy could have confidence in God’s Word because he saw this Word lived out in his grandmother, his mother and his mentor.  There is not greater testimony for the scriptures than the faithful life of one living out the Word every day.

2 Timothy Chapter 4

1) How willing are you to hear the truth?  How willing are you to speak it?

2) What would you say about the way you are living the Christian life today?  What would you like to say at the end of your life?

3) What kind of challenges have you faced standing for Christ?  How have people responded to your life?

We’re down to the last chapter from what is the last letter that we have written by Paul.  In these final words, Paul lets Timothy know what is of utmost importance: “Preach the Word (4:2).”  Paul had been a consistent, strong, faithful voice of God’s truth; it was now time for Timothy to take over this responsibility.  And Paul warned that it would become increasingly difficult to do so (4:3-4).  Regardless, Timothy was to preach the word whether it was convenient or not.  Those in error he was to correct; those who were sinning he was to rebuke; and those who were doing well he was to encourage (4:2).

Paul’s words to Timothy were urgent because the time of his death was near (4:6).  As Paul considered this, he glanced back over his life and said in verse 7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”  May these be our words as we live our lives for Christ.

Paul shares with Timothy the struggles he has had standing for Christ.  He speaks about those who stood against him (4:14-15) and those who deserted him (4:16).  But Paul reminds Timothy how God remained faithful throughout all of this (4:17).  And then, referring to his imminent death, Paul speaks of his ultimate rescue (4:18).  For Paul, death was not seen as defeat, but rather as the final victory.

2 Peter Chapter 1

1) What would be necessary to be well-equipped for a camping trip?  What about being equipped to take a college class or to be successful in a relationship?

2) Repetition may be the mother of learning, but it also can become boring.  Why is repetition so important in our understanding and growth?

3) Can I get a witness?  What can you testify to regarding God’s work in and around your life?

No matter what the activity, to be successful you must be fully equipped.  Peter helps us see the completeness of what Jesus did for us in verses 3-5.  Here he speaks of having everything we need, specifically the great and precious promises of Christ.  The result?  We are able to participate in God’s nature and live free of the corruption of this world.  Indeed, we are well-equipped to live in a way that honors God.

“I know you know, but I’m going to remind you anyway.”  This seems to be what Peter is saying in verses 12-13.  Paul said something similar in Philippians 3:1 – “It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.”  Being reminded of the truth we have learned is an important and necessary part of our spiritual journey.  Not only is there much to know, but there are many distractions and challenges along the way.  Don’t grow weary in learning and hearing the stories of our faith over and over again.  It is through this that we will be able to hold firmly to all we believe.

As if to strengthen his position, Peter reminds us that he isn’t teaching what someone else taught him, rather he is sharing what he personally experienced (1:16-18).  While there is much for us to share about what we’ve learned from the Bible and from others, the biggest impact we can have on others is when we share about what God has done in and through our own life.  There is much power and validity in a personal word of faith.

 

2 Peter Chapter 2

1) How far off true does something need to be in order to be considered false?  What would it take for you to recognize something as being false?

2) What is our recourse against those that live against the ways of God?  What are we to do with people who go about opposing the truth?

3) How narrow is “the straight and narrow?”  What does it take to stay on course?  How soon do you realize when you’re getting off track?

Peter spends all of Chapter 2 speaking out strongly against false teachers.  In doing so, he uncovers the subtle manner in which they work.  In verse 1 he says they “secretly introduce destructive heresies.”  These false teachers must act on the sly or their lies would be obvious.  Further, according to verse 3, the basis of their teaching is “stories they have made up.”  We must be armed with the truth in order to stand up to that which is false.

While we must stand for what is right and share the truth with those who are wrong, at the end of the day God is the one that will settle the score with the wicked (2:4-8).  He is still able to “rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment.”  (2:9)

In verse 15, Peter describes the false teachers as those who have “left the straight way and wandered off.”  Although many would see God’s ways as narrow and restrictive, it is His ways that truly lead to life.  “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.  But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”  Matthew 7:13-14

 

2 Peter Chapter 3

1) How well do you remember God’s Word?  What can you do to better remember the truth you are learning?

2) What do pop quizzes, DUI checkpoints and check ups at the dentist have in common?  Can you be prepared for them?

3) What is the best way to stand firm in our faith in the midst of a world set against God?  How can we best be prepared for the challenges we will face?

The lessons had been taught and the examples had been shared.  Now it would be time for God’s people to live out the truth.  However, they would need to be reminded of and then remember this truth.  Peter expresses that this was his purpose in writing to his friends (3:1-2).  We must continue to work at learning and then remembering what God has taught us through His Word.

There are some events in life that we know are coming, but we’re not sure when.  Unfortunately, our normal response to this is to become lax in our living and preparation.  Jesus’ coming again is one such event.  But Peter instructs us how we should live while we wait.  In verse 14 he says we should “make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.”  How we live day to day really matters.  We should live as if we are expecting His return at any time.

Be on guard and keep growing.  These are some of the final words of Peter’s letter.  If we will do these two things, we will be prepared for whatever the world brings us as we wait for Jesus to come back for us or call us home.