Hebrews Chapter 13

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Thirteen Theme: Identifying as those ‘outside the camp’

BACKGROUND

We have seen how the writer often combines practical advice with an important revelation. It is no surprise that this concluding chapter follows the same pattern.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 13 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-8

As the writer draws to a close, he encourages his readers to reach out to fellow believers, strangers, prisoners and sufferers. He then commends marriage, morality and contentment (including concerning money), reminding us of God’s commitment to always be with us (Deuteronomy 31:6 and Psalm 118:6-7).  Still being practical, he speaks of leaders, urging his readers to imitate their faith and consider their lives, positioning the statement ‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever’ in a way that suggests he might be implying that a leaders’ way of life should present Jesus consistently.  

Question

• What checking mechanisms should we have in place when we are seeking to imitate the lives of others?

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Verses 9-14

Verse 9 warns against strange teachings, possibly because some have been  promoting confusion and compromise around eating ceremonial foods. This leads into verse 10 which opens up a powerful argument based on our commitment to feasting on Jesus. Animals offered for sin were buried outside the camp and not eaten, yet we feast on Jesus who, as our sin offering, rightly suffered outside the camp. So, having already made ourselves unacceptable under Jewish law by feasting on the sin offering, we should bear the disgrace and identify with Jesus ‘outside the camp’ (i.e. outside the acceptable system), remembering that we don’t have an enduring city here but have one to come.

Question

• What might it mean to you to identify with Jesus ‘outside the camp’?

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Verses 15-19

We are back in the realm of short practical comments. Verse 15 picks up on offering a sacrifice of praise; verse 16 on acting sacrificially towards others, verse 17 returns to the theme of attitude towards leaders, especially as they have to give account for us; and verse 18-19 has the writer asking for prayer as he is currently isolated from them.

Question

• What do you think is meant by leaders ‘must give an account’?

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Verses 20-21

This is a benediction worth learning by heart and savouring every word. Jesus is indeed our great Shepherd raised from the dead for us!

Question

• Having taught about the new covenant, in this benediction the writer speaks of the eternal covenant. Why is that significant?

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Verses 22-25

To finish, we have some more short comments. Verse 22 encourages the readers to receive this (brief) exhortation, while verse 23 shares news of Timothy’s release. Verse 24-25 are the final greetings, with v24 implying that the letter may be coming to them from Italy (possibly Rome).

Question

• We could end with the tantalising question (to which no one knows the answer): who wrote Hebrews? Instead we’ll settle for ‘what do you feel you have learnt about the passions, cares and concerns of the writer to the Hebrews? 

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter has not only been a ‘signing off’ but has contained some powerful thoughts about stepping outside the camp. It has also included an incredible blessing. 

PRAYER & REFLECTION

It would be great to end this study series by praying verses 20-21 over each other.

Now may the God of peace,

who through the blood of the eternal covenant

brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus,

the great Shepherd of the sheep,

equip you with everything good for doing his will,

and may he work in us what is pleasing to him,

through Jesus Christ,

to whom be glory for ever and ever,

Amen. 

Hebrews Chapter 12

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Twelve Theme: Accepting discipline while motivated by realties we can hold onto.

BACKGROUND

This is a practical chapter about Christian discipline but it  contains one of the most startling comparisons between the old and new covenants that the writer to the Hebrews shares with his audience (and consequently with us).

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 12 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-3

These verses describe the Christian life as a race in which we need to run unencumbered. Verse 1 speaks of the faith heroes of Chapter 11 as a cloud of witnesses (cheering us on from the stands). Verse 2 reminds us to fix our eyes on Jesus, not on the cloud of witnesses but on the cross and on his eternal throne. 

Question

• Do you have a story that you can share about losing encumbrances so you can better run the race? If the context is appropriate, do share it. 

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Verses 4-13

Verses 4-11 present Christian discipline positively by comparing earthly and heavenly discipline, drawing on encouragement from Proverbs 3:11-12 (Septuagint). The writer reminds us that the intended outcome of God’s discipline is righteousness and peace. Verses 12-13 urge us to strengthen ourselves and to make the paths that we walk (? run) on level.  

Question

• What differences do you see between earthly and heavenly discipline?

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Verses 14-17

Verse 4 speaks of holiness without which ‘no one will see the Lord.’ Verses 15-16 list bitterness, immorality and godlessness as things to guard against. Esau is used as an example of godlessness, and verse 17 can be seen as an example of being sorry about the consequences of an action without being truly repentant over performing it.  

Question

• How might it be possible to describe Esau as an old covenant example of the situation highlighted in Hebrews 6:8, seeing that he grew up alongside his brother and had different priorities?

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Verses 18-21

These verses describe the dramatic way that the old covenant was instituted at Mount Sinai.

Question

• All these events were very outward and visible. They marked an exciting and dramatic moment which the Jewish nation remembered every year at Passover. The writer is about to describe something better, but are there ways in which a fixation with the dramatic and spectacular might be a hindrance in our spiritual journeys? 

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Verses 22-24

These verses describe what we, by contrast, have come to as Christian believers. They provide yet another amazing Hebrews’ list: Mount ZIon, God’s city, the heavenly Jerusalem, innumerable angels, the church of the firstborn, God the judge of all, spirits of righteous people made perfect, Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and the sprinkled blood that speaks better than the blood of Abel.  

Question

• These are invisible realities that last for eternity compared with visible things that existed in just one moment. How can we increase our appreciation for these eternal realities that are our new covenant benefits?

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Verses 25-29

In these final verses of the chapter we are exhorted to keep listening to God who now speaks from heaven. One day he will once again shake the earth and the heavens in a way that will remove all that is shakeable, and show himself as consuming fire. The good news for us is that we are ‘receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken.' 

Question

• If God is working in us so we can live unshakeable lives in an unshakeable kingdom, how does he (and Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:12-13) encourage us to build so that we can live with him as a consuming fire?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

In this chapter the writer has encouraged us in our Christian race and taught us the value of discipline. He has also continued to contrast the old and new covenants. It is great that we can benefit from all that he is presenting to his audience of first-century Jewish believers. Our inheritance may have come to us by a different route, but knowing the way God unfolded his salvation plan within a nation can only inspire us with more confidence and commitment.

PRAYER & REFLECTION

There is a lot in this chapter that we can reflect on. Maybe we can gather some of it together in prayer.

Eternal God,

You shook the earth and burned with fire when you gave the law,

but shakeable things remained unmoved, 

and lives remained unignited.

As you speak into our lives today we are prepared to be shaken.

We look for that holiness without which no one shall see the Lord.   

We value your fire that has ignited us. 

Let it burn up everything that is unworthy of you.

 We take hold of the realities you have opened up for us

and commit to keeping our eyes fixed on you. 

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 11

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Eleven Theme: Celebrating the faith of those who longed for the realities we have received

BACKGROUND

In the previous chapter we read the amazing account of how these early Jewish believers (the letter’s initial readers) began their Christian journey. In this well-known chapter we read of those who lived before the old covenant and during it. Their stories challenge us deeply, especially given the surprising statement in the chapter’s final verses tells us they had not received what we have received. 

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 11 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-16

Verse 1 gives us a definition of faith that focuses on confidence and assurance. Verse 2 then opens the way to explore this. From seeing that faith enable us to understand God’s role in creation, we move on to look at  Cain and Abel, Enoch and Noah, leading up to Abraham. From Cain and Abel we learn that Abel’s offering was acceptable because it was offered in fatih. From Enoch we learn how one can please God through faithfully seeking him. From Noah we learn how faith enabled him to stand out from a corrupt world around him. The writer then gives us Abraham’s first example of faith as Abraham leaves Ur to head for a city designed and built by God, which God has shown him. Abraham’s second display of faith relates to trusting God’s promise to give him and Sarah a son in their old age. The writer then makes the point that all those mentioned so far persisted in fatih, never looking back, even though they only saw from a distance God’s ultimate promise of a heavenly country and a specially prepared city.   

Question

• Why do you think this future hope was so important in keeping them pressing forward in the midst of their own challenges?

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Verses 17-19

These verses cover Abraham offering Isaac and receiving him back as if from the dead. The original story is recorded in Genesis 22 where verse 5 is noteworthy. 

Question

• Abraham’s thinking must have been ‘if God has promised me a son, he is not going to leave me without him, even if resurrection is to be the only option.’ How good are we at holding onto God’s promises when we go through testing times?

• Could the test also have come to remind Abraham that, as God emphasised Abraham’s ‘only’ mentality in Genesis 22:2, Abraham needed to be reminded that the promise he had received was not just about Isaac but about generations to come? If so, are some of the tests we experience also about helping us to see a bigger picture?

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Verses 20-31

Verses 20-22 cover the next-generation being blessed by Isaac and Jacob, and Joesph’s commitment to returning to the Promised Land after the 400-year wait which God had informed Abraham about (see Genesis 15:12-16). Verses 23-28 then take us from Moses’ birth, his commitment to his Israeli identity and the departure on Passover night, onto verses 29-31 where the writer shows the faith involved in the Red Sea crossing, the sending out of  the spies, the fall of Jericho and the protection of Rahab. 

Question

• It is easy to see these as mere historical events but throughout we are being told there were examples of individual faith. Is it possible that individual faith still plays a part in the unfolding of major events today, and if so, how?

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Verses 32-38

These verses cover judges, prophets and kings; including, among others, Gideon, David and Samuel, listing many of the things they achieved through faith. In verse 35 we are told of women who received their dead raised to life, and of those who were tortured but refused release, trusting for a better resurrection. Verse 38 tells us the world was not worthy of them! 

Question

• If ‘a better resurrection’ means a more glorious entrance into heaven, how might 2 Peter 1:10-11 be relevant for them and for us? 

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Verses 39-40

These verses are humbling in that they state ‘God had planned something better for us.’

Question

• How should we respond appropriately to these verses in our day-to-day living?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter has provided us with a collection of inspirational instances and attitudes that show the power of faith in terms of both ‘confidence in what we hope for’ and as the ‘assurance about what we do not see.' It tells us that we have received more than those who have gone before us but that their confidence and assurance can still speak to us. 

PRAYER & REFLECTION

Look back through the chapter, thinking of both the named and the unnamed, and see if there is anyone whose faith-in-action inspires you in your  current circumstances. You may then like to pray this prayer:

Almighty God

Your presence through the centuries has inspired your followers to do mighty things.

You have given us so much, but many who have gone before 

have achieved more with less.

  Encourage us again with an awareness of your presence, 

and cause us to be bold with the confidence and assurance you stir within us.

Others have trusted you for so much in the midst of trying circumstances,

may we be those who hold firmly to you in the midst of our challenges,

knowing that our lives are in your hands.

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 10

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Three Theme: Recognising the completeness of Christ’s sacrifice and the need for a consistent response

BACKGROUND

This chapter picks up on the challenge presented to the early Jewish believers of the new covenant appearing to still be running side-by-side with the old covenant. Gentile believers reading the Hebrews letter would have seen the problem differently. They (like us) had entered straight into God’s new covenant but would have welcomed the privilege of seeing the heart of God in using the old to prepare the way for the new. In this chapter  the completeness of Christ’s sacrifice is presented together with the need for a consistent response.The chapter ends on a positive note about faith, ready for Chapter 11’s presentation of those in the past who were referred to as examples in Hebrews 6:12.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 10 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-10

The centre piece of these verses is the quotation from the Septuagint version of Psalm 40:6-8 in verses 5-7. Before quoting this the writer reemphasises the inability of the old covenant sacrifices to make people perfect, in that they left the people still feeling ‘guilty for their sins.' The psalm records (in anticipation) the intentions of Christ (the Messiah) when taking up our humanity and coming into the world. The writer explains that, in being set to do his Father’s will, Jesus came to provide something better than ineffectual sacrifices. Verse 10 sums up the fulfilment of that intention by saying ‘we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.’ 

Question

• Why is it important to know that our consciences are cleansed so that we are no longer left with an overburdening sense of guilt for our sins?

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Verses 11-18

Although these verses quote from the new covenant promises given in Jeremiah 31:33-34, there is in verses 12-13 a reference to Psalm 110:1 showing Jesus seated at his Father’s right hand and waiting. For the writer this brings home the reality of Jeremiah 31:34 leading to the confirmation in verse 18 ‘and where these (sins and lawless acts) have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary.’ 

Question

• How does the picture of Jesus being seated and waiting in heaven confirm for you the effectiveness of his once for all sacrifice?

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Verses 19-25

There are three exhortations in these verses. In verses 19-22 we are encouraged to draw near to God boldly as Christ on the cross has opened the way into God’s presence. The writer describes this opening up as ‘going through the curtain’ and also speaks of the sprinkling of our hearts and the washing of our bodies. These statements highlight the new covenant realities anticipated in the old covenant rituals. The second exhortation is to ‘hold firmly to the hope we possess’ (verse 23), and the third is to spur each other on by meeting together and encouraging each other (verses 24-26). 

Questions

• How does the spiritual sprinkling of our hearts and the washing of our bodies relate to the purity needed for us to come boldly into the presence of God?

• What can we do to increase the encouragement we bring to one another?

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Verses 26-31

When reading verses 26-35 it is good to have in mind 1John 1:8-10. These warnings in Hebrews are particularly strong (as we saw in Hebrews 6:4-8). This is because they relate to a determined, unrepentant attitude. The three condemning factors in verse 29 underscore this point. All three border on the unthinkable: trampling the Son of God underfoot, treating  as unholy the sanctifying blood of the covenant, and insulting the Spirit of grace. 

Question

• Why do you think the writer is so forceful on the topic of determined unrepentance?

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Verses 32-35

These verses contain the amazing testimony of these early Jewish believers. It is an incredible list. No one the writer says ‘So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.’ 

Question

• How does the list in verses 32-34 compare with the list in Hebrews 6:4-5, and could the Hebrews 10  list be a practical outworking of the list in Hebrews 6?

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Verses 36-39

Here a plea to persevere is linked with the hope of the second coming, referenced by Isaiah 26:20. It is then followed  by Habakkuk 2:4, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.' It is good to emphasise that we are not ‘those who shrink back’ but ‘those who have faith and are saved.’ 

Question

• ‘The just shall live by faith’ is often quoted. What does it mean in practice?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter has many takeaways, both in terms of what it exhorts us to do and what it encourages us to avoid. The final verse about living by faith sets us up well for the next chapter.  

PRAYER & REFLECTION

Verses 19-22 are written as one long sentence – a sentence which is so rich in meaning that it is well-worth taking time to reflect on. As you do so, perhaps you could use it as a prayer of gratitude.

Lord Jesus, 

since we, as brothers and sisters, have confidence to enter 

the Most Holy Place by your blood,  

by a new and living way 

opened for us through the curtain, that is, your body,

and since you are our great priest over the house of God, 

let us draw near to you with a sincere heart

and with the full assurance that faith brings, 

having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience 

and having our bodies washed with pure water.

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 9

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Three Theme: Comparing the earthly tabernacle with the heavenly reality

BACKGROUND

Someone once said ‘if you want a good commentary on Leviticus, read Hebrews.' This chapter proves the point. It shows how God put types and figures into the old covenant that point to realities in the new. In particular this chapter presents a detailed comparison between the earthly tabernacle and the heavenly reality that was its template.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 9 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-10

Verses 1-5 set out the furniture and layout of the tabernacle as constructed by Moses. Verses 6-7 then explain the regular role of the priests and the annual role of the high priest (as described in Leviticus 16:11-17). Verses 8-10  complete this overview by explaining the limitation of this system, saying ‘the way into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed’ and ‘the gifts and sacrifices offered were not able to clear the conscience of the worshippers.' 

Question

• Why do you think the writer chooses to highlight these two particular disadvantages of tabernacle (and, later, temple) worship?

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Verses 11-14

In these verses the writer takes us directly from Christ’s coming to his ascended ministry as our heavenly high priest. So ‘the good things that are to come’ (i.e. the blessing of the new covenant) can also be described as ‘the good things that are already here.' ‘The greater and more perfect tabernacle’ is heaven itself. The Most Holy Place is God’s throne room and by bringing his own blood before the Father’s throne he achieves an inner cleansing for us that goes way beyond that temporary, outward, ceremonial cleansing achieved by offering bulls and goats. 

Question

• Why is it important to have our consciences cleansed from dead (or deadly) past acts?

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Verses 15-26

Verse 15 stresses that Jesus is the mediator of the new covenant and that his death liberates all who are called. The writer then, in verses 16-22, uses the illustration of a will, only coming into effect when someone dies, to explain why things need to be cleansed with blood. There was a lot of blood in the old covenant! But In the new covenant Jesus was in effect ‘cleansing’ heavenly realities. Verses 23-26 affirm this and show that as his sacrifice was a far better sacrifice, he only had to offer himself once ‘at the culmination of the ages to do away with sin.’

Questions

• How does the ‘once for all’ nature of Christ’s death affect our thinking when we are coming before God in repentance and faith?

• People often speak about the importance of the blood of Jesus. How has this chapter helped your understanding of it when comparing the old and new covenants?  

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Verses 27-28

These final verses speak about death and judgement, and of Christ’s second coming ‘to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.'

Question

• How confident should we be when considering judgement, given that Christ’s second coming is about bringing salvation to those who are waiting for him?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter has not only provided us with a contrast between the earthly tabernacle and the heavenly original, but has given us detailed information about the effectiveness of Jesus’ death and his ministry in the heavenly realms. The writer makes it clear that the old covenant practices repeated annually on the Day of Atonement are superseded  by a ‘once for all’ reality in the new covenant. 

PRAYER & REFLECTION

This time I’d like to suggest that you prayerfully reflect on a hymn of Isaac Watts. You may like to quietly play some reflective music while you do so. Try to find something that takes you away from the hymn’s usual rhythm.

Not all the blood of beasts,

  On Jewish altars slain,

Could give the guilty conscience peace,

  Or wash away its stain.

But Christ, the heavenly Lamb,

  Takes all our sins away;

A sacrifice of nobler name,

  And richer blood than they.

My faith would lay her hand

  On that dear head of Thine,

While like a penitent I stand,

  And there confess my sin.

My soul looks back to see

  The burdens Thou didst bear

When hanging on the cursed tree,

  And knows her guilt was there.

Believing, we rejoice

  To see the curse remove;

We bless the Lamb with cheerful voice,

  And sing His bleeding love.

Hebrews Chapter 8

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Eight Theme: Defining the essence of God’s new covenant

BACKGROUND

This chapter marks a huge transition point in human history – the moving from the old covenant to the new. Both Jeremiah and Ezekiel prophesied a new covenant at the time of the restoration after the Babylonian exile, and in the upper room Jesus linked its arrival with the giving of his body and the shedding of his blood.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 8 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-6

The writer tells us the main point of what is coming in this chapter (and in the next) is that we have a high priest who serves in the true tabernacle which God has raised up  in heaven. He then writes of the earthly copy where earthly high priests serve, saying that the ministry of Jesus is greater than theirs as he is the mediator of a superior covenant.

Question

• It is just about possible that priests were still serving in the Jerusalem Temple at the time this was written (Jerusalem fell in AD 70). If that were the case, what contrasts could the readers draw between an earthly priestly role and a heavenly one?

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Verses 7-9

These verses quote Jeremiah 31:31-32 from the Septuagint version (a Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures in use at the time Hebrews was written). It is introduced by explaining that the fault with the first covenant (established through Moses) was that people did not remain faithful to it. Obviously it requires more than taking people ‘by the hand to lead them out of Egypt’ to make them covenant-keepers. 

Question

• Why do you think the writer of Hebrews says that people’s failure to keep the old covenant implies a fault with the covenant itself? 

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Verses 10-12

These verses quote Jeremiah 31:33-34 which spell out the benefits of the new covenant over the old as follows: the law being written in our minds and on our hearts; a close relationship being possible with God who now becomes knowable by all, regardless of a people’s status; a forgiveness that is accompanied by a gracious forgetfulness.

Question

• Why is having the law in our minds on our hearts better than just having them on stones in the Ark behind the veil in the tabernacle or temple?

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Verse 13

It is a big thing to say that the old covenant is obsolete and outdated but not only were the  believing Jews living under a new covenant but the new covenant was able to bring Gentiles into direct relationship with God. Emphasising the transient nature of the old covenant would have focussed the minds of wavering Jewish believers. 

Question

• As we are studying this, can you think of reasons why it is helpful for Gentile believers to know the details and history of the old covenant?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter introduces us to the words of Jeremiah that Jesus had in mind in the upper room. Studying them helps us have a better understanding of the new covenant that we have been brought into.   

PRAYER & REFLECTION

As I read verse 13 of this chapter I think of all those Jewish people, well-versed in the old covenant, who are still looking for the new era that they believe God still has in store. Let’s pray that our own testimony will commend Jesus, and not unthinkingly condemn those who are yet to know him. Ephesians 2:11-22 can guide us.

Father God,

We who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

We were foreigners to the covenants of promise,

without hope and without God in the world.

 But now we know him who is our peace, who has made two groups one,

destroying the barrier and dividing wall of hostility. 

He set aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. 

So we turn to the cross that reconciles us to you and others, and ask that once again 

we may preach peace to those who are far away and those who are near.

In Jesus’ name we pray.

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 7

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Seven Theme: Explaining the necessary change in the priesthood

BACKGROUND

This Chapter is about a change in the priesthood that God had planned way before he had Moses appoint Aaron as Israel’s first high priest. When God told the serpent in the Garden of Eden that his head would be bruised by the Seed of women, God in his triunity knew that this would be a role God the Son would fulfil through his crucifixion and resurrection. However, the fuller picture would involve God the Son being mankind’s mediator, high priest, prophet, king and judge. 

The historical preparation for Jesus being our high priest not only involved setting up high-priestly practice through Aaron and his successors but establishing a separate line for an everlasting priesthood that only Jesus could fulfil. Melchizedek, who met with Abraham long before Aaron was born, was God’s way of introducing that eternal high priesthood, which surpasses the Aaronic priesthood in every way.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 7 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-10

All we know of Melchizedek from Genesis 14:18-20 is set out in verses 1-3, plus his evident lack of genealogy and similarity to the Son of God. Some scholars actually think he was a pre-incarnation appearance of Christ. The writer then goes on to show Melchizedek’s superiority by telling how even Abraham paid Melchizedek a tithe and received a blessing from him. Levi, who is mentioned in verses 9-10, was Abraham’s great-grandson and the head of Moses and Aaron’s tribe.

Question

•  In what way is it significant that God established the priestly line for Jesus through one who is both king of righteousness and king of peace?

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Verses 11-22

The argument that the Aaronic/Levitical priesthood had to be replaced because it didn’t bring perfection shows that perfection has been God’s aim from the beginning. The law also had its limitations. Changing both the law and the priesthood, sees Jesus being made high priest from the tribe of Judah on the basis of an indestructible life. His appointment is confirmed by an oath (see Psalm 110:4). All of this speaks of a better covenant through which we can draw near to God.

Questions

• If the law of Moses and the Aaronic/Levitical priesthood were interim, what was God seeking to achieve by putting them in place?

• Can you describe a link between drawing near to God and reaching perfection?

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Verses 23-28

Verses 23-25 establish the permanence of Christ’s priesthood, affirming that his continuing intercessory role brings a completeness to his work of salvation. Verses 26-27 show that not only did Jesus have no need to sacrifice for his own sins, but that his sacrifice suffices once for all. Verse 28 confirms that whereas the law appointed high priests in their weakness, God’s oath appointed Christ in his perfection.

Questions

• Why is it so important to stress that when Jesus died for sin, he died ‘once for all’? 

• How is it that a high priest who is ‘holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners’ and ‘exalted above the heavens’ is so good at meeting our needs? 

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter informs us that God has always had an ultimate plan which he has been introducing to humanity step-by-step through interim measures. The important thing to hold onto is that the ultimate reality is far better than the interim measures.  

PRAYER & REFLECTION

In verse 18 we are told that ‘a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.’ It would be good to end this time of study by quietly drawing near to God. After a time of silence you might like to pray along the following lines:

Father God,

The perfection of your planning leaves us in awe. 

You truly are the one who knows the end from the beginning.

Indeed, you are the one who defined the end from the beginning.

We are confident that, as you steered our predecessors 

through the types and figures of the past towards a better covenant, 

so you will establish our hearts and minds in the joy of your presence.

Help us to understand the fulness of your new covenant,

this better covenant that brings us nearer to your perfection.

In Jesus’ name we pray.

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 6

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Six Theme: Acknowledging limitations and vulnerabilities, and finding a promise to hold onto

BACKGROUND

This Chapter picks up on the need for maturity that was introduced in Chapter 5 preparing us for a more in-depth look at the high priestly ministry in Chapters 7-10. The writer’s commitment to seeing his readers holding firm to their faith is very much the motivation behind this chapter.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 6 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-3

The writer sets out six foundational points that Jewish believers would have been taught when coming to Jesus. They are: repentance, faith, cleansings (baptisms), the laying on of hands, resurrection and judgement. Each deserves a close look. They provide an insight into how well they had been taught when embracing Christianity from a Jewish background. Cleansing rites were important and for them  baptism carried that understanding (see Acts 2:38). The laying on of hands was associated with receiving the Spirit (Acts 8:17), commissioning (Acts 6:6; 13:3) and healing (Luke 4:40). They would have known, though, that all three could happen without the laying on of hands. 

Questions

•  How does this foundation-laying line up with the foundation-laying you experienced when you came to faith? 

• Can you give a reason as to why the writer lists repentance and faith first?

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Verses 4-8

These are challenging verses and we start by looking at the illustration in verses 7-8. This is not a contrast between land that is well watered and land that suffers drought. Both were well watered. Saying that the land ‘drinks the rain often falling on it’ (see verse 7) highlights the blessings God pours onto believers. These are listed in verses 4-5: enlightenment, tasting the heavenly gift, sharing in the Holy Spirit, tasting the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come. Despite this downpour of blessings, some still produce thorns. They live as if the crucifixion achieved nothing. The problem, which is highlighted verse 6, relates to the challenge of restoring such people to repentance. The Holy Spirit constantly works to bring about repentance (see David in Psalm 51:11), but some people only get as far as remorse (see Esau in Hebrews 2:17), having set their hearts against the Holy Spirit’s work (see Matt 12:32). 

Other helpful verses are: 1 John 5:16; Galatians 6:1 and James 5:19.

Question

• In the light of John 16:8-11, what do you think it means for us as Christians to welcome the ‘sin-convicting’ work of the Holy Spirit in our lives?

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Verses 9-12

These are encouraging words to hold onto after the challenge of verses 4-8. Verse 12 lays the foundation for some exciting lessons from the lives of others that we will come to in Chapter 11.

Question

• What encouragement can you draw personally from the statement that ‘God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people’?

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Verses 13-20

When God made his promise to bless Abraham and his descents, it was a doubly guaranteed promise: God said it, and then backed it with a binding commitment by way of an oath. God wants us to know that his purposes are unchanging. We have a hope that we can hold onto with confidence as Jesus has anchored it in the heavenly holy of holies where he has entered to serve as our high priest. 

Question

• What value do you see in Jesus having anchored our hope?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

Although this chapter carries warnings, it also carries a lot of encouragement. Its main purpose is declared in verse 1: ‘let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity.’ Despite the challenges, the writer is showing an underlying confidence in the growth-potential of every believer. 

PRAYER & REFLECTION

Maybe a good way to reflect on the chapter is to think again about the blessings poured on the lives of believers: enlightenment, tasting the heavenly gift, sharing in the Holy Spirit, tasting the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come. We can give thanks for this as we pray.

Lord Jesus

We thank you for the enlightenment you have brought to our lives,

and are amazed that you have allowed us to taste the gift of heaven.

We recognise the cost to you of giving us a share in the Holy Spirit.

He only abides in us because of your work of reconciliation on the cross.

We have indeed tasted the goodness of the Word of God, 

and experienced something of the powers of the age to come,

and for these realities we are deeply grateful. 

Continue to increase our understanding 

as we pray in your name.

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 5

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Five Theme: Celebrating Jesus, our great high priest

BACKGROUND

Chapter 4 taught us more about entering into God’s rest, and began to say more about Jesus as our high priest. In this chapter the writer says more about the high priestly role of Jesus and once again stresses the importance of not falling away. 

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 5 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-6

Here the writer gives us an insight into the way high priests have functioned ever since the days of Aaron. Aspects mentioned include: appointment, representation and the offering of gifts and sacrifices. The gentleness of high priests is said to relate to their own weaknesses, which means that when making sin offerings they are doing it for themselves as well as for others. The comparison with Jesus starts with his appointment, citing Psalm 2:7 and Psalm 110:4.

Question

 How do you think first century Jewish believers in Jesus would have responded to hearing that Psalms they had grown up with actually held statements about Jesus that sounded as if the psalmists were listening into conversions between God the Father and God the Son that had taken place in eternity?  

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Verses 7-10

These verses emphasise the humanity of Jesus, especially with regard to Gethsemane. The expression ‘Son though he was’ in verse 8 is important. Nothing here takes away from his divinity. ‘Learned obedience’ and being ‘made perfect’ need to be seen in this light. They play a part in Jesus being designated ‘high priest in the order of Melchizedek’ but, as we shall see in Chapter 7, Melchizedek was unique and carried unusual characteristics. 

Questions

•  How do you rate the ability of the Church to recognise the humanity of Jesus alongside his divinity?

• What can we learn for our own prayer life from the way Jesus prayed at Gethsemane?

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Verses 11-14

The writer is concerned that those he is addressing have become apathetic. He expects them to have progressed to being teachers but concludes they make little effort to understand. He compares them to infants wanting milk rather than meat who consequently have failed to train themselves to discern good from evil. 

Question

• How do you assess your own progress in terms of tackling meatier concepts that might take you on to maturity?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

The writer is taking us on a journey of understanding. Issues have already been introduced in these first five chapters yet need to be examined more rigorously. At the end of this chapter a challenge is laid down to prepare us for what is to come. 

PRAYER & REFLECTION

You may have noticed that themes are beginning to flow from chapter to chapter, and that there are times when the chapter breaks interrupt lines of thought. You may like to find a time when you can read the whole letter to the Hebrews at one sitting. If this is difficult, do at least consider checking back as you read. It may be that a lead-in from the previous chapter will help to hold concepts together. It would be good, as you pray together, to focus on the grace to transition from spiritual milk to spiritual meat. 

Father God

We thank you for the challenge to move on from spiritual milk to spiritual meat, 

and thank you too for the challenge to become those who can teach others.

We not only want to be those who are able to discern good from evil,

but yearn to be those who can pray with passion as Jesus did. 

When trials come to perfect our obedience,

we long to be known for our reverent submission.

 And we ask this in the name of the one 

who is our example and inspiration,

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 4

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Four Theme: Discovering the rest that remains

BACKGROUND

Chapter 3 introduced us to the way we can learn lessons from the past. This chapter looks more closely at the outworking of Psalm 95:7-11, which the writer quoted in chapter 3. The thought of holding firmly to our faith is still never far away.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 4 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-5

The writer explains that the failure of the Israelites to enter into rest when reaching the promised land means that the opportunity to enter into God’s rest is still available  for those of us who have heard the good news and believed it. The point is emphasised by quoting again from Psalm 95:11 and followed up by confirming that the rest which God is referring to as ‘my rest’ is actually the rest he has been experiencing since completing creation by forming mankind. This means that God’s ‘seventh day rest’ was to be humanity’s experience from our first day onwards. Humanity lost that rest in the fall, and then went on to miss out again when entering the promised land.

Question

• How do you think humanity’s restlessness has affected individuals and society since the fall?

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Verses 6-11

In saying ‘it still remains for some to enter that rest’, the writer shows that God’s purposes can never be thwarted. The emphasis on ‘today’ is then brought home strongly by saying that David was deliberately setting a new opportunity when he, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote ‘Today if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.’ In verse 10 more light is shed on the nature of God’s rest and in v11 the need to prioritise entering it is emphasised.

Question

• How do you bring together the reality of ‘resting from our works’ with ‘making every effort’ to enter into rest?

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Verses 12-13

In these verses we see how God keeps us on track through the penetrating power of his word.

Question

• Have you experienced the Bible speaking into your life in a powerful way that you would be able to share?

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Verses 14-16

In the final verses of this chapter we come back to the theme of Jesus as our high priest (see Hebrews 3:1). Although Jesus, unlike previous high priests, is without sin, he can still support us as he has experienced every possible temptation. What is more, he has made it possible for us to come into God’s presence, boldly approaching the throne of grace. Previously, only the high priest could come before the earthly mercy seat and that was just once a year to receive mercy for the nation. We can now come whenever needed to receive personally God’s mercy and grace. 

Question

• What does it mean to you to ‘receive mercy and find grace to help’ when you are in need?

• How would you summarise the benefit of being able to find grace as well as to receive mercy?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter has made it clear that there is an open door for us to enter into God’s rest. It has also talked about the power of God’s word to keep us on track, and told us how we can receive mercy and find grace. In the next chapter we will explore further the high priestly ministry of Jesus.

PRAYER & REFLECTION

As you end this time of study as a group or an individual, think about how committed God is to seeing us enter into his rest.

Father God

Thank you for your commitment to seeing us released from our strivings,

and for opening up for us the rest you have known from creation. 

We will never be worthy of that privilege, but we resolve to enter in,

trusting unreservedly in your mercy and grace.

Thank you too for the correction you bring through your word,

and for making Jesus our high priest

 who sympathises with us in our weakness.

 And it’s in his name that we pray,

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 3

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Three Theme: Learning a lesson from the wilderness

BACKGROUND

In chapter 2 we saw the importance of appreciating the humanity of Jesus. Now we are presented with a contrast between the role of Moses and the ministry of Jesus. The writer then brings a lesson from Israel’s time of wandering in the wilderness, using Psalm 95:7-11 to emphasise the opportunities they missed. It is a pivotal chapter as it paves the way for greater contrasts to come.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 3 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-6

These verses start by encouraging us to fix our eyes on Jesus who is the builder of the house and head over it. In this the writer compares him with Moses who was faithful in the house. The writer then states that we are the house,as long as we hold firmly to our confidence and hope.

Question

• How does ‘fixing our eyes on Jesus’ help us to hold firm to our confidence and hope?

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Verses 7-14 

Here the writer explains the significance of the Holy Spirit’s message in Psalm 95:7-11 about not hardening our hearts. These verses are then used to show the importance of encouraging each other to stand firm. The writer particularly emphasises the importance of the word ‘Today.'

Question

• When the writer speaks about being ‘hardened by sin’s deceitfulness’, what  does it mean and how can it happen?

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Verses 15-19 

These verses are introduced by a repetition of Psalm 95:7-8. The rebellion referred to happened at a place called Meribah, which means quarrelling. The writer focuses on the consequences of the Israelites’ rebellion and unbelief in the wilderness, even  though Moses was leading them to freedom out of Egypt. This is in preparation for further lessons to come in Chapter 4..

Question

• Given the way the writer of Hebrews is making his case, this could be a good moment to read Romans 15:4. Here Paul speaks of learning from things written in the past. Discuss the possibility of things in the past not only having been written down for us to learn from but actually having been set in place for us to understand God’s overall plan. 

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter introduces us to learning lessons from the past. This was important for Jewish believers in Jesus, as God had chosen their nation to prepare the world for the coming of Jesus. This makes their history relevant for us too.

PRAYER & REFLECTION

As you end your time of study as a group or individually, focus your thoughts on God’s thoroughness in preparing the world for the coming of Jesus. 

Father God

Your patience throughout history touches our hearts.

You endured more from your creation than we can ever imagine,

Yet your love and commitment never faltered.

Help us to learn from that as we seek to encourage each other.

We want to stand firm in you and be strong for one another.

Strengthen us as we turn away from rebellion and unbelief

and fix our eyes on Jesus as our apostle and high priest.

In his name we pray,

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 2

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter Two Theme: Appreciating God’s total identification with our humanity

BACKGROUND

In Chapter 1 we saw how the Father speaks of the Son, and how he has spoken to him. Now we will see how the Son has spoken to us, and how we need to register the responsibility this brings. Whereas chapter 1 focuses on the divinity of Jesus, this chapter establishes his humanity. The theme of holding to our faith is never far away.

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 2 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-4 

The NIV translation of ‘drift away’ in verse 1 is a helpful reminder of the effect of inactivity. ‘So great salvation’ in verse 3 is also a good reminder. The greatness of that salvation was certainly backed up by the experience of the early Church..

Questions

• How do these verses begin to emphasise the greater value of what we have received?

• What safeguards against drifting away are you already beginning to notice the writer is presenting?

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Verses 5-9 

In this section the translators of the NIV have opted to translate Psalm 8:4-6 differently from those who worked on the NKJV. Both translations are theologically viable. The NKJV sees the writer’s quotation from Psalm 8:4-6 as referring to Jesus, whereas the NIV translators, by using ‘their’ and ‘them’ rather than ‘he’ in verse 8, apply it to mankind. Theologically: humanity was ‘lowered’ at the fall, but Jesus was ‘lowered’ at the cross. It is the suffering of Jesus on the cross that redeems us from the fall and raises us to glory.

Questions

• How do you understand the fall in the quotation from Psalm 8:4-6? 

• How do you see the outworking of the cross in the Psalm 8 quotation and the verses that follow it?  

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Verses 10-13 

Verse 10 picks up on ‘crowned with glory’ from the Psalm 8:5 quotation, applying it to mankind. The main focus in these verses, though, is on Jesus fully identifying with us in his pioneering role. The writer then gives three quotations to show family closeness: Genesis 3:15; Psalm 22:22; Psalm 8:17-18.

Questions

• How does the thought of us being ‘brothers and sisters’ to Jesus help you in your day-to-day living?

• Do you also find it helps you in your prayer-life and worship?

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Verses 14-18 

In these verses the identification argument is strengthened, and emphasis is placed on the way breaking the fear of death frees us from slavery. Christ’s high priestly ministry is introduced, with verse 18 saying that, since Christ suffered when tempted, he can help us when we are tempted.

Questions

• What are the different ways in which the fear of death grips people? 

• As the concept of Christ’s priestly ministry is introduced, what benefits of that ministry mean do you think might apply to you?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This chapter has focused particularly on Christ’s identification with us in our humanity, but it also begins to introduce aspects of Christ’s priestly ministry. The writer is continuing to build his case for believers standing firm in their faith.

PRAYER & REFLECTION

As you end your time of study as a group or on your own, focus your thoughts on Christ's identification with us. You may find this prayer of thankfulness helpful. 

Father God,

Thank you for sending Jesus to identify with us in our need.

Thank you that even before humanity fell, you had a plan of restoration.

Thank you for lifting us up through Christ’s suffering on the cross.

Thank you for bringing many sons and daughters to glory.

We thank you for our many brothers and sisters around the world.

Strengthen us all in the tests we face in seeking to live wholeheartedly for you.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Hebrews Chapter 1

THEMES

Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant

Chapter One Theme: Recognising the role and reign of God the Son

HISTORY

The Hebrews letter does not disclose who it is written by or who exactly it is intended for, although its contents imply a Jewish audience under pressure to renounce Christ. A concluding mention of Timothy in prison suggests a writer who was close to Paul’s team. Both Hebrews and Galatians argue that the Mosaic covenant is surpassed and fulfilled in the new covenant, with the new covenant being God’s original and ultimate plan. However, the styles differ.

Furthermore, as Timothy’s imprisonment is not mentioned by Paul in either of his letters to him, a date after Paul’s death (normally given as around AD 65) is indicated. Mention of Temple activity (e.g. Heb 8:4-5) and the comment about the old covenant’s imminent disappearance (Heb 8:13) may suggest a date prior to the destruction of the Temple in AD 70. 

As it was sent from Italy, and Paul is believed to have died in Rome, it might be the work of someone seeking to preserve Paul’s legacy by following up on the pastoral and theological concerns Paul was known to have for those who shared his Jewish heritage.   

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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 1 and have a Bible ready in front of you.

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Verses 1-4 

These verses establish the role of God the Son in creating and sustaining creation. 

They also show how his crucifixion was a victory leading to his post-ascension enthronement It  afforded him the exalted position he now holds (see Phil 2:6-11).

Questions

• How do these verses portray the broad sweep of Christ coming from the heights of heaven to meet our needs before returning to heaven?

• How should we understand the privilege of being spoken to by the Son rather than by the prophets?

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Verses 5-14 

In verses 5.14 the writer confirms Christ’s sonship by quoting Bible verses described as ‘words never said to angels.' Here is the list:

• Verse 5 quotes Ps 2:7 and 2 Sam 7:14 from Nathan’s prophecy to David. 

• Verse 6  quotes Deut 32:43 (Septuagent). 

• Verse 7 quotes Ps 104:4 to set up the place of angels before going on to …

• Verses 8-9 that quote Ps 45:6-7 referencing the anointing of the Anointed one which echo ascension references in Phil 2:6-11, Acts 2:33 and Ps 133:2. 

• Verses 10-12 quote Ps 102:25-27 confirming Christ’s eternal nature. 

• Verse 13 quotes Ps 110:1 a verse which Jesus uses Himself in Mt 22:41-46.

In verse 14 the writer speaks of the role of angels towards us.

Questions

• Which of the Old Testament verses quoted by the writer speaks to you most powerfully and why?

• Many speculate about how angels serve us. If we were to focus just on our worship, how would you say angels help us to celebrate God’s goodness, and what, if anything, can we add to their worship?

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

The writer to the Hebrews begins this letter by giving us a powerful insight into the person and work of Christ, particularly of his victorious entry into his ascended glory (having humbled himself to meet our needs). The writer affirms that Christ speaks more powerfully than the prophets he sent, and reigns above the angels he created. This understanding of Christ’s supremacy is foundational for the whole letter.

PRAYER & REFLECTION

End your time as a group, or individually, with prayer. It may be helpful to first focus your thoughts by reading and applying the words of Psalm 24 as a way of bringing together the thoughts raised in this chapter. 

Lord Jesus,

We come before you in all humility and deep gratitude.

We thank you for providing purification for our sins on the cross,

and we celebrate your ascension and the overflowing of your anointing. 

We are so grateful for the giving of the Holy Spirit.

He changed lives at Pentecost 

and continues to change lives today.

Anoint us afresh to receive the empowering words you speak into our lives

 and continue to transform us through all that you have done and are doing.

In your name we pray.

Amen