A Consistent Life - Hebrews 12:1-15 - August 31, 2008

Sunday School Lesson - A Consistent Life – August 31, 2008

This is our final lesson in this series of study. We have been discussing Christian basics, priesthood of the believer, confidence, growth and maturity. It is easy to cover the various aspects of spiritual growth and maturity in a month but it takes time and commitment to grow and mature spiritually. Growing and maturing in the LORD does not happen overnight. We can read and study GOD’S Word and pray to learn about GOD. It is vital that we get to know GOD and that requires a relationship with
HIM. Reading, studying HIS Word and prayer can lead to knowing GOD.

We live in a world of instant this and that. I see little children trying to dress and be like teenagers before they have enjoyed their age level. We, as believers, often want to grow spiritually overnight. It is good to have the desire to grow and mature spiritually but we must be careful not to get out of step with our LORD and get ahead of HIM. I know I have been there. He will let you run ahead of HIM and HE will allow you to run into a wall. That usually gets your attention. It got my attention and then I learned, most of the time, to wait upon HIM to lead me.

Our scripture is Hebrews 12:1-15, living a consistent Christian life.

The author of Hebrews compares living the Christian life to running a race. We have just completed the Olympic Games. We know the training that goes into preparing each participant for a game. Preparation begins at a very early physical age. It requires discipline, dedication, commitment and hard work. The Greek word for race is “agon” and means “conflict” or “fight”. I think of the word agony because often it is agony preparing and participating. Running a race depicts a believers struggle to run in the race of life.

Each participant in the Olympic Games had to make a decision. As believers, we had to make the decision to first become believers and second, whether or not we will allow our heavenly coach to train us or if we will follow our own training program.
JESUS asks us to allow HIM to be our coach. It will not be easy, but it will be rewarding. HE is in the business of turning out champions!!! The wonderful part is that we can choose to sign up right now regardless of our physical age or physical condition. It is our willingness that is important. No matter what our physical age or physical condition, we can obediently serve HIM by entering HIS training program at this moment. HE has a plan for each believer. The choice is up to us. So what is your choice? Do it your way or GOD’S way?

If you have read the previous lessons in this series, you know that living a consistent Christian life has been a major struggle in my life and still is. I finally learned that living the consistent Christian life depends upon CHRIST ruling my life instead of my flesh. Even though I know that, the flesh still tries to rule. It is a constant battle between the flesh and the spirit. The more we try to allow the spirit to rule, the more the flesh seems to rise up. That is okay because when that happens we know we are making the right decision to walk in the spirit and not in the flesh.

Physical growth and maturity depend upon eating the right food, exercise, study, work, fellowship and rest. The same is true with spiritual growth and maturity – Study GOD’S Word, pray, fellowship, be honest with GOD, seek the relationship with HIM and serve HIM in obedience.

Our parents have our best interest in mind. Parents want to see their children grow and mature and they play an active role guiding and encouraging them. Children can choose to be obedient to their parents or fight against them. I know not all parents are created equal. But let’s consider the ideal parent.

Our heavenly FATHER is the ideal parent and HIS desire is for HIS children to grow and mature into the fullness of HIS SON JESUS. Did you know that is GOD’S goal for each believer? Each believer is to be made into the image of HIS SON. WOW!!! That is awesome!!! That is why we need to have an intimate, loving relationship with HIM. It is through this relationship that we can have the best opportunity to live a consistent Christian life and to be all that HE wants us to be.

Let’s read Hebrews 12:1-4:

The Call to Endurance

1 Therefore since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us, 2 keeping our eyes on Jesus,[1] Or looking to Jesus the source and perfecter[2] Or the founder and completer of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him[3] Or who instead of the joy lying before Him; that is, the joy of heaven endured a cross and despised the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.[4] Ps 110:1

Fatherly Discipline

3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, so that you won’t grow weary and lose heart. 4 In struggling against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.

The writer of Hebrews again uses the word “therefore”. It refers back to Chapter 11. Hebrews Chapter 11 is known as the Faith Hall of Fame. Chapter 11 highlights some of the heroes of the faith. They have already run the race of life and are waiting for the rest of the believers to complete the race. They have passed the baton to each of us. Now it is our turn.

I think there is another aspect of this scripture that we can consider. As Christians, we are surrounded by numerous people upon earth, who are also watching us. Believers are surrounded by fellow Christians watching as they encounter certain circumstances. Believers are also surrounded by non-believers who watch their lives to see how they live and what choices they make as Christians. The non-believer wants to see if the Christian is genuine and consistent. Observing to see if they practice what they preach? If so, such consistent living will entice those watching to thirst for what they have. Others see that the believer is genuine in their faith and it can lead them to become a believer in CHRIST. Is Christianity real or a passing fad? Believers are GOD’S representatives and often are the only Bible non-believers have access to.

Folks, it is an awesome and sobering thought when we consider that others are watching us. I can tell you, without CHRIST being in control of your life, you cannot even think about being consistent. Even then we fall short. Our flesh wants to rule and our ego gets in the way.

Living a consistent Christian life is not for wimps and impossible in our own strength. The next time someone cuts you off in traffic or shows you a certain finger digit or a store clerk speaks short to you or cannot understand you or you cannot understand him or her and the list goes on, how do we react? I know, I have been there and I have to control my emotions. The LORD has to remind me who I am. When that thought floods my soul, I calm down.

The author tells us not to allow anything to weight us down or “the” sin cause us to drop out of the race. A weight is not necessarily sin but anything that we allow to encumber us, our witness or obedience is. A weight is something that distracts us and slows us down as we live to obediently serve our LORD. Sin is like a vine, rope or chain that wraps around our legs and prevents us from running the race and obediently serving our LORD.

Notice the use of the language “the sin” in verse 1. It is likely the author had a specific sin in mind. The sin that came to my mind was the sin of “unbelief.” Believers cannot run the race if they have doubts about their relationship with the LORD or unbelief. That is why the relationship with our LORD is so critical. Reveal every doubt or unbelief to the LORD and ask HIM to help you conquer them along with anything else that hinders you from running in the race of life. Believers must keep in mind that a moment of any sin offers nothing compared to what awaits them when they get to heaven.

As we read this scripture, it is clear that our strength is in our relationship with CHRIST and we are GOD’S children through the miracle of the rebirth. We must keep our eyes focused on JESUS. HE is our SAVIOR, coach, teacher and example. HE is the “source”, which means the leader or trail blazer. HE suffered the agony of the cross because HE knew the joy that awaited HIM by being obedient to HIS FATHER. HE suffered for us so we could be freed from sin and death. HE is the “perfecter of our faith” through the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT day by day. GOD does not ask any more from us than HE asked from HIS ONLY SON. HE knows life is hard and difficult. HE wants us to keep on keeping on and finish the race of life. Yes, even those in heaven are cheering us on because they know what is waiting for us at the finish line. Never give up, no never because a victor’s crown awaits those who finish the race of life.

Let’s read Hebrews 12:5-11:

5 And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: My son, do not take the Lord’s discipline lightly, or faint when you are reproved by Him; 6 for the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and punishes every son whom He receives.[5] Pr 3:11–12 7 Endure it as discipline: God is dealing with you as sons. For what son is there whom a father does not discipline? 8 But if you are without discipline—which all[6] In context all refers to Christians. receive[7] Lit discipline, of which all have become participants —then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Furthermore, we had natural fathers discipline us, and we respected them. Shouldn’t we submit even more to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time based on what seemed good to them, but He does it for our benefit, so that we can share His holiness. 11 No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the fruit of peace and righteousness[8] Isaiah 32:17 to those who have been trained by it.

The author refers to Proverbs 3:11-12 in verses 5and 6. Discipline is important in a family, military, business and various walks of life. Many people discipline themselves to eat healthy and exercise. Good parents discipline their children. GOD is no different. HE disciplines HIS children and uses circumstances in life to educate and train HIS children, as they need it. Sometimes the education and training is severe.

Most of us do not like discipline. We want to do our own thing. The military knows that discipline is vital to win the battles and ultimately win the war, while protecting the troops.

Christians are in GOD’S army and He wants us to be trained, educated and disciplined so when HE says don’t do that, do that, move, not to move, take action or stay put, we will respond to HIS command.

GOD disciplines HIS children with love and in just the right way. It may hurt but HE knows that some pain now will result in a greater reward for HIS children later. The Greek word for “discipline”, as related to children, carries the idea of both formative and corrective discipline - Formative as we grow and mature in the LORD and corrective as we live and serve HIM on a daily basis.

Believers are born-again in his or her spirit by the Spirit of GOD. Therefore, GOD is the FATHER of spirits (Born-again Spirits). Earthly parents discipline their children based upon what they think is best for them. Our heavenly FATHER knows the beginning and end of our lives. HE knows our potential and HE disciplines us for our benefit. GOD does not have to guess what we may become with the right education and training, HE knows.

When we place our will into HIS hands, HE leads and guides us as HE knows best for us and our potential. Discipline may seem grievous to us for the moment but afterwards, we will see the benefit.

There is one thing for sure, as we go through a time of discipline GOD goes through it with us. HE never leaves us or forsakes us. HE had to turn HIS face from HIS only SON for a moment, when JESUS became sin on the cross. But HE will never have to do that again to one of HIS children. WOW!!! What a FATHER we have!!!

Let’s read Hebrews 12:12-15:

12 Therefore strengthen your tired hands and weakened knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet,[9] Pr 4:26 so that what is lame may not be dislocated,[10] Or so that the lame will not be turned aside but healed instead.

Warning against Rejecting God’s Grace

14 Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness—without it no one will see the Lord. 15 See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no root of bitterness springs up, causing trouble[11] Dt 29:18 and by it, defiling many.

The author realizes that Christians grow weary and get tired but that is when we must realize that our witness influences others. So do not let the burden of life and circumstances get you down. The author has shifted from running the race to sustained endurance for the long journey.

Keeping on is easy to say when it is not you in the circumstance. Life can get a believer down and discourage him or her. This is when believers need to seek help from other believers and to find solace in their relationship with GOD. Keep on keeping on. GOD’S grace is sufficient for all circumstances believers face.

We must keep in mind that GOD’S grace is available to all believers and we must not allow any bitterness to spring up and take root or compromise our relationship with CHRIST. The author uses the words “see to it” in verse 15. The words refer to “bishop” or “overseer.” Believers have a responsibility to look out for other believer’s spiritual well being, as well as their own. GOD grants believers grace and in turn we need to grant others grace. When believers consider GOD’S grace to them, it in turn helps us manage our attitude toward others. It does not mean sticking our head in the sand but handling matters, as GOD directs, to bring about the right result. Our flesh nature rises up at times and we want to act like a bull in a china shop. When it is all over we have a lot of pieces to clean up and rebuilding to do.

Serving our LORD consistently is impossible in our own strength. Seek the fullness of HIM in your life by seeking to have an intimate relationship with HIM. Let HIM teach you and build in you what is needed to walk with HIM consistently each day. Yield your will to HIM. Pray something like this, “FATHER, I am tired of living life on my own terms, take me as I am. I ask YOU be the strength of my life each moment to live as YOU want me to live. Open up your Word and help me to see truth as I have never seen it before. I want to form a partnership with YOU to get to really know YOU and have an intimate, loving relationship with YOU. When we meet in prayer I ask that YOU open my heart to know YOUR voice and grant me the confidence and strength to respond when YOU ask me to be obedient. AMEN.”

Then thank HIM for what HE is going to do in your life. Awesome!!!

We have covered a lot of fundamental spiritual territory. My prayer is that each believer will be challenged to continue in the race of life and finish to receive the victor’s crown. And to hear those awesome words from our SAVIOR and LORD, WELL DONE GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT!!!

A Confident Life - Hebrews 10:19-29, 32-36 - August 24, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – A Confident Life – August 24, 2008

This is lesson four (4) in our series of study.

Our scripture is Hebrews 10: 19-29, 32-36.

Confidence is both good and bad. Over confidence can often lead to problems. We want our physician, attorney, mechanic, etc. to be confident. Being confident and risk-taking can be an interesting combination in a person’s life. Wisdom can play a very important role in managing confidence and risk-taking. This dynamic trio (confidence/risk-taking/wisdom) often comes from experience.

I know during my spiritual journey there was a time I thought I could walk through the pits of Hell and come out without even the smell of smoke. I learned the hard way that over confidence can lead to trouble. Notice the words, “I thought I could ----.” Bad combination – self can get a person into trouble before he or she knows it. Satan is always lurking to spring a snare at just the right moment. Be careful that it is the LORD leading and guiding you and not self. Your confidence must be built upon the LORD and HIS strength and not yours. This is where growth and maturity are vital in a Christian’s life. Build upon the foundation of CHRIST using good, sound, tested materials – HIS WORD, prayer, confession, questioning, seeking, testing (using the Bible as the standard), building a healthy relationship with HIM, serving in obedience to name a few.

Let’s read Hebrews 10:1-18 to set some background for our lesson:

The Perfect Sacrifice, the once forever sacrifice, is CHRIST! Not animals!

1 Since the law has [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a shadow of the good things to come, and not the actual form of those realities, it can never perfect the worshipers by the same sacrifices they continually offer year after year. 2 Otherwise, wouldn’t they have stopped being offered, since the worshipers, once purified, would no longer have any consciousness of sins? 3 But in the sacrifices[1] Lit in them there is a reminder of sins every year. 4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. 5 Therefore, as He was coming into the world, He said: You did not want sacrifice and offering, but You prepared a body for Me. 6 You did not delight in whole burnt offerings and sin offerings. 7 Then I said, “See, I have come— it is written about Me in the volume of the scroll— to do Your will, O God!”[2] Ps 40:6–8 8 After He says above, You did not desire or delight in sacrifices and offerings, whole burnt offerings and sin offerings, (which are offered according to the law), 9 He then says, See, I have come to do Your will.[3] Other mss add O God He takes away the first to establish the second. 10 By this will, we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once and for all. 11 Now every priest stands day after day ministering and offering time after time the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But this man (CHRIST), after offering one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God. 13 He is now waiting until His enemies are made His footstool. 14 For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are sanctified (Set aside for the service of GOD). 15 The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. For after He had said: 16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws on their hearts, and I will write them on their minds, 17 [He adds]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. : I will never again remember their sins and their lawless acts.[4] Jr 31:33–34 18 Now where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer an offering for sin.

CHRIST our High Priest makes it possible, through HIS shed blood, for all believers to approach GOD with boldness. Through the miracle of the rebirth we are children of GOD and as such, CHRIST is our Brother. CHRIST removed once and for all the barrier of sin. The barrier has been removed by CHRIST but every person must choose to accept what CHRIST has done for him or her. That requires a decision.

Let’s read Hebrews 10:19-23:

Exhortations to Godliness

19 Therefore, brothers, since we have boldness to enter the sanctuary through the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that He has inaugurated for us, through the curtain (that is, His flesh); 21 and since we have a great high priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled [clean]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. 23 Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.

The author’s use of the word “therefore” refers back to all he or she has written up to this point and acknowledges that the intended audience is fellow Christians by referring to them as “brothers”. All believers have direct access to GOD and can enter the sanctuary with boldness because of the shed blood of JESUS.

In the Old Testament, the priest could only enter the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle and later the temple in Jerusalem. The Holy of Holies was the innermost part of the sanctuary where the priest encountered the presence of GOD. The priest had to first offer a sacrifice for his own sins and then a sacrifice for the sins of the people. This was done once a year on the Day of Atonement. There were a number of priests serving in the temple but only one (1) priest went into the Holy of Holies. At a point-in-time a rope was tied around the waist of the serving priest in case the priest died when he was in the Holy of Holies. The other priests could drag his body out without having to enter the Holy of Holies.

A curtain separated the Holy of Holies from the other sections of the temple. When CHRIST gave HIS life upon the cross, the curtain that separated the Holy of Holies from the others areas of the temple was torn from top to bottom. Why top to bottom? Because GOD TORE IT!!!

Matthew 27:50-51:

50 Jesus shouted again with a loud voice and gave up His spirit. 51 Suddenly, the curtain of the sanctuary[25] A heavy curtain separated the inner room of the temple from the outer. was split in two from top to bottom; the earth quaked and the rocks were split.

CHRIST was the perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind and there was no longer a need for believers to be separated from GOD, THE FATHER. The resurrection of CHRIST is proof that CHRIST was and is the perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind. It is by the shed blood of CHRIST, through the death of HIS flesh, the perfect sacrifice that opened access to the FATHER in a new way that could not exist any other way. CHRIST replaced the need for an earthly priest because HE is the perfect Priest WHO is over the house of GOD. CHRIST is in charge.

The author reinforced the need for believers to keep on keeping on in their faith. They do not need to revert back to rituals and traditions to feel clean. They are perpetually clean because of the shed blood of CHRIST and can go before GOD, their FATHER, anytime they choose 24/7. Believers have the living, pure water of the HOLY SPIRIT gushing from within. Because it is what flows from us that impacts those around us.

Consecration of the priests – Exodus 29:4, 21. These were the instructions GOD gave to Moses to prepare the priests for service:

Verse 4 - 4 Bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance to the tent of meeting and wash them with water.

Verse 21 - 21 Take some of the blood that is on the altar and some of the anointing oil, and sprinkle [them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. on Aaron and his garments, as well as on his sons and their garments. In this way, he and his garments will become holy, as well as his sons and their garments.

This is awesome to me! Notice the order of the Exodus 29:4 and 21for a priest to approach GOD compared to Hebrews 10:22 for a believer, who is made a priest through faith in CHRIST, to approach GOD.

· Exodus – First clean the body with water to prepare them to made Holy. Then sprinkle them with the blood of the sacrificed animal to make them Holy. Then they could approach GOD.

· Hebrews – Believers hearts are sprinkled clean by the shed blood of JESUS and then they are washed in the pure water. Believers can stand in the very throne room of GOD.

In the Old Testament the priests had to remove the dirt resulting from daily living by washing with water. This prepared them to focus on the impurities in their lives and to prepare them for internal cleansing. The blood from the sacrifice helped them internalize the need to be cleansed from their sins. They were sprinkled with the blood of the animal sacrifice in an act of obedience and to make them Holy to be able to approach GOD.

The author of Hebrews changed the order for approaching GOD. First, every believer can approach GOD with boldness because his or her heart is sprinkled with the blood of JESUS followed by the washing in pure water. First, the inward cleansing of the heart by the shed blood of JESUS, then the HOLY SPIRIT manifest Himself by indwelling every believer as the pure, living water that only CHRIST can provide. Why the change in order? No person can clean himself or herself enough to approach GOD. GOD bids every person to come to HIM as he or she is – dirt and all. CHRIST’S blood cleanses all believers from all sin – Past – Present – Future. Once a believer asks CHRIST to forgive him or her of his or her sins, the HOLY SPIRIT indwells his or her body. Another aspect of washing in the pure water, I think could involve baptism. In obedience, a believer follows the decision to ask CHRIST to forgive him or her sins with baptism. Baptism is an outward symbol for what has happened internally in the life of a believer.

The author of Hebrews ties the Old Testament consecration of the priests to verse 22 in our scripture. All believers are made priests through the shed blood of CHRIST and have the living, pure water of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT gushing from within their lives. [Some scholars believe that the reference to the pure water refers to believer’s baptism.]

Let’s read Hebrew 10:24-25:

24 And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, 25 not staying away from our meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.

The author emphasizes the need for helping one another and gathering together to encourage each other, particularly as you see things getting worse which indicates the return of CHRIST.

One of the purposes of church is for believers to gather to support each other and to encourage each other during hard times. Life is for the perfecting of the Saints and circumstances come in various shapes and forms.

During these days, the Romans left the Jews alone but were persecuting the Christians. It was very tempting to return to Judaism and abandon Christianity for safety. These were critical days and the Christians needed to support and encourage each other. Once a believer knows the truth he or she needs to keep on keeping on. JESUS said while HE was alive upon earth, that there would be hard times and persecution.

Let’s read Hebrews 10: 26-29:

Warning against Willful Sin

26 For if we deliberately sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a terrifying expectation of judgment, and the fury of a fire about to consume the adversaries. 28 If anyone disregards Moses’ law, he dies without mercy, based on the testimony of two or three witnesses.[5] Dt 17:16 29 How much worse punishment, do you think one will deserve who has trampled on the Son of God, regarded as profane[6] Or ordinary the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and insulted the Spirit of grace?

The author deals with intentional sin. The Jews had two (2) categories of sin – Unintentional and intentional. Intentional sin carried severe punishment, even death. If breaking the law carried such severe punishment, how much more accountable is a believer if he or she denies CHRIST or turns his or her back on CHRIST. Once a believer knows the truth it is terrifying to think about a believer returning to the Jewish religion.

Let’s read Hebrews 10:32-36:

32 Remember the earlier days when, after you had been enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings. 33 Sometimes you were publicly exposed to taunts and afflictions, and at other times you were companions of those who were treated that way. 34 For you sympathized with the prisoners[10] Other mss read sympathized with my imprisonment and accepted with joy the confiscation of your possessions, knowing that you yourselves have a better and enduring possession.[11] Other mss add in heaven 35 So don’t throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. 36 For you need endurance, so that after you have done God’s will, you may receive what was promised.

The author reminds the believers of their conversion experience and the days following their experience. Many of us will never forget the moment we saw the light, so-to-speak, and gave out hearts to CHRIST. It is a moment we will never forget. Many of us were on fire and zealous for the LORD and nothing would deter us from witnessing and serving HIM.

During my early teenage years, I remember those who became Christians being teased.

The author reminds these believers of these days when their earthly goods were taken because of their walk with CHRIST. They countered this abuse with joy because they knew their home was not earth but heaven. During these early days, they had their priorities correct but something happened over a period of time to cause them to wane. We discovered in previous verses that they had not grown and matured spiritually. They had lost their first love and joy of salvation. They were wavering and needed to rethink their relationship with CHRIST.

Believers are reminded that their ultimate destination is heaven and they need to keep on keeping on.

This is a message to all of us. It is easy to let circumstances or fellow Christians cause us to grow cold. Do not let anything cause you to lose your joy or your first love. Each believer is accountable to GOD. GOD will deal with those within the body of believers. Often HE allows such things to happen to give us the opportunity to look to HIM for a solution and to trust HIM for a solution. When we sulk and pout, it shows that we are immature and do not have confidence in GOD to take care of a situation and to continue to help us to grow and mature spiritually. Believers are accountable to GOD for their actions. Is GOD big enough and powerful enough to manage all things in earth and in heaven? If not, confess it to HIM and ask HIM to help your unbelief.
If we lose confidence in GOD, we cannot grow and mature spiritually.

I know there was a time I lost confidence in HIM. Along with confidence is trust. When we lose confidence and trust in HIM we must confess it and ask HIM to help us. Only HE can restore confidence and trust.

A Maturing Life - Hebrews 5:11-6:12 - August 17, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – A Maturing Life – August 17, 2008

This is lesson three (3) in our series of study.

Our scripture is Hebrews 5:11-6:12.

Growing and maturing as a Christian is an interesting subject. I have journeyed with our LORD for many years and feel like I am still a spiritual baby. There have been milestones in my spiritual journey. I have always been in the church. My parents took me to church and I even taught Sunday school at an early age. [It was mainly reading the scripture and what the Sunday school material writers had to say.] I was baptized in my late teens. My Christian journey was much like a roller coaster, ups and downs, turns and twists. In my twenties, I rededicated my life to CHRIST. This meant, I went to church more including Wednesday night prayer service and Sunday night. I responded to the level of my understanding, which was works. Even though I did not fully comprehend my response, it was none-the-less a response of faith to all I knew to do. Each step of faith led to growth.

Spiritual growth has been a long process for me. Maturing spiritually has been even longer and still not there. Growth is a natural process. As we get older we grow. Maturing, as we get older, does not automatically follow the same natural process. It would be wonderful if it did.

We moved to Spartanburg and joined First Baptist Church. My wife and I sensed something different about that church. As we grew spiritually, we discovered it was the presence of the HOLY SPIRIT. I don’t recall much being said about the HOLY SPIRIT up to this time in my life. Living the Christian life was done on your own. It was during these years that I really wanted to live the Christian life on a daily basis. That is when I realized I could not in my own strength and asked the LORD to take my life just like it was, good and bad, and to help me live the Christian life.

That was a major turning point in my journey with the LORD. It was no longer me trying to live the Christian life in my strength but allowing the LORD to give the strength through the HOLY SPIRIT. Growth took off. I wanted all the LORD had to offer me. I sought the gifts of the Spirit. The LORD allowed me to explore and experience many spiritual things, which resulted in HIM teaching me. Some were very hard lessons but necessary for me. After a period of time I felt like I was not maturing as a Christian. I asked the LORD to make me mature. Most of us think that GOD will sprinkle us with Holy Dust and wham-o, we are mature. That is not the case. HE cleaned my clock so-to-speak and began rebuilding on the foundation of CHRIST as HE wanted. I had made GOD into my own image and had notions about how HE should act and what HE should do according to my will. It has been a hard journey but an exciting journey that continues daily.

Life continued with many ups and downs but always with the assurance of the LORD’S presence in my life. In the last four (4) years the LORD used the workbook “Experiencing God” written by Dr. Henry Blackaby and Claude V. King published by LifeWay to take me to a new level of spiritual understanding. It was all about my relationship with CHRIST.

I was struggling spiritually. I just did not sense that I knew the LORD as I should know HIM. Before my wife and I began the study “Experiencing God”, I prayed and told (attitude problem in retrospect) the LORD that I was going to be brutally honest with HIM. As I began working through the workbook, I told the LORD, “I am not going to leave one section in the workbook to go to the next until we deal with all the issues in that section.” The LORD revealed to me that I had an anger issue with HIM about certain matters. Not angry, angry but an underlying, disappointing attitude. I had issues between me and the LORD that needed to be resolved.
Through the search and revelation of the HOLY SPIRIT in my life and raising questions I had, HE soon put HIS finger on some problem areas. I had allowed some false notions to come into my life. The LORD led me on a journey of trusting HIM. [Too much for me to go into but it was awesome when it was over.] This is where I am spiritually at the moment. But I realize that there is much growth still ahead. My journey is not over and I am sure the LORD will continue to reveal more and more in my life to help us build and maintain the best possible relationship we can have.

The point is, to grow spiritually, we must stay in the game, so-to-speak. Many of us get frustrated as we journey with CHRIST. I had to come to the realization that the problem was not with GOD but my understanding of GOD. The problem was me. HE reveals to us a little at the time, so we can work on the issues in our lives that will lead us to spiritual growth and maturity.
The author of Hebrews believed that the Christian Jews needed to grow spiritually and mature so they could understand and comprehend more than spiritual basics. The name of the book is “Hebrews” and was written to encourage the Jewish Christians to continue their journey with the LORD. It is foundational for all Christians in their spiritual journey.

Let’s read Hebrews 5:11-14:

The Problem of Immaturity

11 We have a great deal to say about this, and it’s difficult to explain, since you have become slow to understand. 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of God’s revelation. You need milk, not solid food. 13 Now everyone who lives on milk is inexperienced with the message about righteousness, because he is an infant. 14 But solid food is for the mature—for those whose senses have been trained to distinguish between good and evil.

In verses 1-10, the author of Hebrews addressed the role of the high priest. At the time Hebrews was written, the Romans selected the high priest to serve in Jerusalem. However, those who knew the Old Testament scriptures knew that GOD had appointed Aaron and his descendants to serve as high priests. However, these high priests were sinful and had to first offer a sacrifice for their own sins, then they could offer a sacrifice for those seeking forgiveness. GOD chose CHRIST as the final High Priest, Who knew no sin, to become sin for the people. HE was tempted in all ways as humans but HE did not sin. Being tempted gave HIM the knowledge of the power of sin without HIM having to yield to sin. Therefore, HE understands what people are dealing with as they journey through life. CHRIST was and is sinless, therefore, HE does not have to first offer a sacrifice for HIS sin. HE is the perfect advocate to the FATHER for our sins. HE understands. Believers no longer have to go through an earthly priest to approach GOD but believers can go directly to GOD with all of their requests. The name of Melchizedek (mel KIZ uh dek) is mentioned in verse 10. Melchizedek was the priest of Salem during Abraham’s time. Salem was later known as Jerusalem. GOD designated CHRIST to be the High Priest after the order of Melchizedek.

Verse 11 begins with the statement that all stated in verses 1-10 was too hard to be explained because those to whom this was written had not grown and matured spiritually enough to comprehend. The author addressed this subject in Chapter 7.

The author stated that the audience was believers but they had stopped growing. By this time, in their spiritual journey, they should be teachers but instead they need someone to teach them. This did not necessarily mean all should be formal spiritual teachers but they should not be in the position of having to be taught. Every believer in essence is a teacher. As we journey though life we teach through our actions and our words. Being a formal teacher is a calling. All believers are to teach their children.

The author compares their spiritual journey to their growth as a human. When we are born, we are fed milk and as we grow, we are fed solid food. Feeding an infant solid food too soon can cause problems. Eventually, as we grow and mature physically, we can handle solid food. The emphasis is on growing and maturing.

How do we grow and mature spiritually? How do we know when we are growing and maturing?
When we grow as children what do we do? We are weighed and our height is recorded. I think most of us can remember the marks on the wall recording our height. We wanted to grow. To grow we ate the proper foods, exercised, studied and got our rest.

The same is true with our spiritual growth. First, believers have to be born spiritually. Then we get our nourishment for GOD’S Word, prayer, listening to what GOD is telling us through the HOLY SPIRIT and putting into action what GOD asks us to do. HE gives us baby steps then HE challenges us to walk, run and climb. We need our rest in HIM as we journey with HIM. We need to pause and reflect and ask questions. The HOLY SPIRIT is our teacher. Ask HIM to reveal truth to you and then look for HIS teaching from many different sources.

I remember years ago, I was having dinner in a restaurant. There was a family seated across from me. I saw how the parents cared for their children. Then the thought came into my mind that these parents had likely had their children vaccinated. The vaccination hurt. Were the parents being bad? No, they loved their children and they knew that the temporary hurt would protect them from far greater harm. GOD used this moment to translate it to a teaching moment - GOD allows HIS children to suffer temporary pain to protect them from greater harm, as they journey though life. None of us like pain. I know, I do not but here is where trust comes in. GOD is sovereign. Sometimes our pain is our own fault and that is another matter. This is where GOD tells us that even when we make a mess, HE is at work to make the best out of our mess. We still may have to suffer the consequences of our actions but HE will do all HE can to make the best out of it.

Let’s read Hebrews 6:1-8:

Warning against Regression

1 Therefore, leaving the elementary message about the • Messiah, let us go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, faith in God, 2 teaching about ritual washings,[1] Or about baptisms laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3 And we will do this if God permits. 4 For it is impossible to renew to repentance those who were once enlightened, who tasted the heavenly gift, became companions with the Holy Spirit, 5 tasted God’s good word and the powers of the coming age, 6 and who have fallen away, because,[2] Or while to their own harm, they are recrucifying the Son of God and holding Him up to contempt. 7 For ground that has drunk the rain that has often fallen on it, and that produces vegetation useful to those it is cultivated for, receives a blessing from God. 8 But if it produces thorns and thistles, it is worthless and about to be cursed, and will be burned at the end.

In the previous verses the author said the audience was slow to understand. This scripture tells us that the audience is not beyond help. The audience has a foundation in CHRIST but they just have not grown and matured spiritually. They are still babies in CHRIST and need to be fed milk. It is time to move on to maturity building upon the foundation of CHRIST and not upon the

Jewish religious traditions:

· Works are dead activities. A person cannot earn their way to heaven by observing rituals or traditions. Faith in CHRIST is the only foundation believers build upon as HE leads them.
· Belief in GOD does not save a person, it is faith in CHRIST. Head knowledge does not get a person to heaven. It is heart knowledge of CHRIST through the miracle of spiritual rebirth.
· Ritual washing only cleans the outside of a person and cannot remove sin. JESUS washes away a believer’s sins through HIS shed blood.
· When the Jews worshipped in the temple, they would lay hands on the sacrifice to demonstrate a transfer of their sins from them to the sacrifice. Faith in JESUS, by HIS shed blood, removes all of a believer’s sins. Past, present and future sins are covered by the blood of JESUS. Believers confess their sins, as they occur, so they will not give Satan a foothold in their lives and strengthen the rule of the flesh.
· Some of the Jews believed in the resurrection of the dead. Jewish hope for the resurrection of the dead was not founded upon their faith in CHRIST but in dead works, rituals and tradition.
· Eternal judgment was acknowledged by both Jews and Christians. Believers, at the moment they accept CHRIST, will not be judged but will be rewarded according their obedience.

Depending upon the translation, this scripture can be used to highlight the Christian foundation of:

· Repentance and faith.
· Ritual washing (baptism) and laying-on of hands.
· Resurrection and eternal judgment.

I lean toward the tie to the Jewish religious emphasis. But either interpretation gets the point across that they need to move on toward maturity. The author says in essence, “Since you have the basic foundation in CHRIST, with GOD’S help, along with your willingness to move on to a higher level, it is possible for you to mature in CHRIST.” The key to growing and maturing in CHRIST is a decision by each believer to yield his or her will to HIM and seek the fullness of CHRIST in his or her life.

Some Christian religions use verses 4-6 to counter the Baptist doctrine of “Once saved always saved.” I believe that once we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our lives, we are born spiritually into GOD’S family. We become HIS children and nothing can ever change that fact. I compare it to our physical birth. Once the sperm unites with the egg nothing will ever change the fact that person is the result of that union.

As I read these verses, here is my understanding. Once a believer has experienced the saving grace of GOD, through CHRIST, that experience can never be repeated. Once we become believers, we have a choice of living for CHRIST and letting HIM rule our lives or letting our flesh rule our lives. Allowing the flesh to rule prevents a believer from growing and maturing in CHRIST. To me, the potential for growing and maturing spiritually is always in a believer’s life but remains dormant until the believer chooses to seek more of the LORD in their lives. Believers have their “fire insurance” so-to-speak but they fall short of their potential in CHRIST when the flesh rules. If you realize that you are in this situation, repent and yield your life to CHRIST now. It is never too late regardless of your age.

The author compares the obedient life in CHRIST to rain falling upon a field. What grows in the field is evidence of what is planted in the field as revealed when the rain fell and produced a harvest. GOD pours out HIS blessing upon all HIS children. HIS desire is for all of HIS children to produce a good harvest or fruit in their lives. HE showers HIS children with blessing. How do we use HIS blessings? Do we plant good seed or do we plant thorns and thistles?

1 Corinthians 3:11-15 captures the essence of the obedient life versus the self guided life:

11 because no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid—that is, Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13 each one’s work will become obvious, for the day[4] The Day of Christ’s judgment of believers will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work. 14 If anyone’s work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire.[5] Lit yet so as through fire

Let’s read Hebrews 6:9-12:

9 Even though we are speaking this way, dear friends, in your case we are confident of the better things connected with salvation. 10 For God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love[3] Other mss read labor of love you showed for His name when you served the saints—and you continue to serve them. 11 Now we want each of you to demonstrate the same diligence for the final realization of your hope, 12 so that you won’t become lazy, but imitators of those who inherit the promises through faith and perseverance.

The author gives the audience a ray of hope. The author does not consider that the audience is doomed. The author acknowledges them as fellow believers and they have the potential of moving on to grow and mature in CHRIST. They had demonstrated their faith in CHRIST through their acts of obedience. They just needed to be encouraged not to become complacent and lazy but to become motivated to keep on keeping on in their faith in CHRIST.

Our service to our LORD on earth is never over until we exit our earth suits and depart this earth.

No matter your age, if you have not been obedient to the LORD, as you should over the years, do not let that discourage you from committing your life to CHRIST NOW!!! HE will welcome you with open arms and your journey through the rest of your life will be awesome!!!

Remember you were not created for time but for eternity. Time is immaterial to GOD but you are precious to HIM. Seize the moment and ask HIM to take all of you just like you are and to make you into the vessel that pleases HIM.

A Faithful Life - Hebrews 2:14-18; 3:1, 5-6, 7-11, 12-14 - August 10, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – A Faithful Life – August 10, 2008

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study.

Our scripture is Hebrews 2:14-18; 3:1, 5-6, 7-11, 12-14.

When I accepted CHRIST as my SAVIOR at the age of about nine (9) years old, I did not understand what I had done. As I grew in age, my concept of being a Christian was going to church on Sunday and trying to be being good. I thought if you were a preacher or a church leader you had to follow a stricter moral standard than a regular church member. Accepting CHRIST as your SAVIOR was one thing but dedicating your life to CHRIST was another. In my mind, I had a stricter standard for a “dedicated” Christian. I knew I did not measure up to that standard and questioned if could remain “faithful” over the long haul. Simply, my life had no power or sense of the presence of the HOLY SPIRIT. I had a self directed life but wanted GOD to direct it. All I knew to do was try harder.

Notice the use of “I”. I thought for a Christian to be a “dedicated” or “faithful” believer, he or she had to be a really strong person morally – hear no evil, see no evil and speak no evil. To me, the Christian life was lived in a person’s own strength. Years later, after struggling to live the so called Christian life, out of frustration, I gave up. I asked the LORD to take my life like it was, good and bad, and to give me the strength to live the Christian life. In a nanosecond HE did and it has been an awesome journey ever since. The first thing I noticed, I could read the Bible and understand it without a commentary. The second thing was an assurance of my salvation. The third thing, I knew I would go to heaven when I died, not because of my goodness but because of what CHRIST did for me.

Since that moment, some thirty-seven (37) years ago, it has been an awesome journey. This by no-means means that I have arrived at the spiritual Promised Land but it does mean that since that moment I have never doubted the presence of GOD in my life. There have been some rough roads traveled during that journey.
The secret to living the victorious Christian life is making CHRIST the LORD of your life. That takes a decision and a realization that we cannot live for CHRIST in our own strength. When we give up the rule of the flesh in our lives, then HE can take over and provide the strength and guidance that we need to grow and mature as Christians. Being mature is the subject of next week’s lesson.

Trying to live the Christian life in my own strength kept me from committing my life to CHRIST. When I would look at living the Christian life, in my own strength, on a daily basis, it was more than I could fathom.

Does this mean I live every moment pleasing to GOD? NO!!!! But it does mean that when I sin and falter, the HOLY SPIRIT convicts me of it and I confess it. The only joyful way to live a Christian life is through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT in us. Paul said it best in Colossians 1:27:

27 God wanted to make known to those among the Gentiles the glorious wealth of this • mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

There will always be a war between the flesh and the Spirit of every believer. The flesh wants to rule but GOD wants the Spirit to rule our lives. This is why GOD wants
believers to stay focused and faithful as we journey this life with HIM. Our consistent life as a Christian is a witness to those with whom we come in contact each day as we go into the world. Remaining faithful on a daily basis is all about building and maintaining our relationship with our LORD.

The author of Hebrews continued building a foundation for the Jewish Christians to strengthen their faith.

Let’s read Hebrews 2:14-18:

14 Now since the children have flesh and blood in common, He also shared in these, so that through His death He might destroy the one holding the power of death—that is, the Devil— 15 and free those who were held in slavery all their lives by the fear of death. 16 For it is clear that He does not reach out to help angels, but to help Abraham’s offspring. 17 Therefore He had to be like His brothers in every way, so that He could become a merciful and faithful high priest in service[9] Lit things to God, to make propitiation[10] The word propitiation has to do with the removal of divine wrath. Jesus’ death is the means that turns God’s wrath from the sinner; see 2 Co 5:21. for the sins of the people. 18 For since He Himself was tested and has suffered, He is able to help those who are tested.

In essence the author of Hebrews is saying, “Here is GOD’S plan – since all people have flesh and blood and at some point will die, they fear death. Death holds the human race in its grip. As a result, sometimes they will do various things, such as follow pagan practices to secure life after death. Death is a mystery. Death is unique to humans and not to angels. Therefore, CHRIST came to minister to humans and not to angels. GOD in HIS wisdom decided that HE would come to earth as a human. HE was 100% GOD but also 100% human. As a human, HE was subject to death. HE gave HIS life in death to defeat the Devil who had control of death. Satan thought he had a victory when CHRIST died but it was only temporary. The real victor is CHRIST Who defeated death by HIS sinless life, shed blood, death and resurrection. Since the passion of CHRIST, no believer has had to fear death because it has been conquered and defeated.

CHRIST is the high priest for all believers. Since HE lived as a human, HE knows the struggles of living in a human body, therefore, HE is eminently qualified to represent all believers to the FATHER. CHRIST is our advocate. Satan is our accuser. Satan accuses all believers before GOD, as we live our daily lives. But CHRIST intercedes in our behalf when Satan accuses us as believers. CHRIST knows first-hand what it like living as a human and being tempted in all ways as humans. CHRIST knows life is no cake walk.”

Since CHRIST lived upon earth as a human, HE was tempted in all ways as a human, yet HE remained sinless. Being tempted allowed HIM to experience temptation. HE did not have to yield to the temptation to know what it is like to be tempted.

Therefore, HE knows what humans go through. HE knows how their faith is tested during times of testing and trials. I believe CHRIST felt that GOD had abandoned HIM when HE hung on the cross. HE had to make a decision, “Do I trust GOD, MY FATHER or do I take matters into MY own hands?” HE trusted the FATHER with HIS earthly life, which was the final victory. HE conquered death by dying and as proof that HE conquered death was HIS resurrection. CHRIST set the example and in doing so, when believers face trials they will have the strength to endure in their faith to the end.

If you feel like you have not remained faithful during a trial or test confess it and ask the LORD to forgive you. You may leave HIM but GOD never leaves you. GOD’S children can always come home. GOD waits for the return of any of HIS children that have strayed, just as the father anxiously anticipated the return of his son in the story JESUS told about the prodigal son. Returning takes a decision. GOD is waiting and ready to forgive and restore you fully.

If you have strayed, confess it and return to the LORD. HE is waiting to welcome you home.

Let’s read Hebrews 3: 1, 5-6:

1 Therefore, holy brothers and companions in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession;

Hebrews 3:5-6:

5 Moses was faithful as a servant in all God’s[4] Lit His household, as a testimony to what would be said [in the future]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . 6 But Christ was faithful as a Son over His household, whose household we are if we hold on to the courage and the confidence of our hope.[5] Other mss add firm to the end

In verse 1 the author uses “therefore.” This means all that has been written to this point has laid the ground work for another fundamental building block. The author refers to believers as “holy brothers and companions in a heavenly calling.”Once people accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR, they are born into GOD’S family and CHRIST becomes their brother. It is a calling to represent HIM while they remain upon earth. It is also a calling to heaven. A believer’s citizenship is no longer earth but heaven. All believers are called and some believers have a special calling into a specific ministry.

We need to keep in mind that the author of Hebrews is writing to Jewish Christians and showing them that CHRIST is the High Priest WHO intercedes for them, as no human priest could ever do.

The author contrasts the roles of Moses and CHRIST. Moses was in GOD’S household but CHRIST had authority over GOD’S household as GOD’S SON. Moses was important to GOD’S plan but CHRIST fulfilled GOD’S plan. GOD instituted the mechanism for old covenant believers through Moses. The blood of animals was shed as a security deposit for their final redemption by CHRIST’S shed blood. Moses was a servant in GOD’S household. The priesthood was established through Moses.

What GOD established through Moses was a fore-shadow of the things to come and to be fulfilled by CHRIST. Faith in CHRIST makes every believer a part of GOD’S household. Even after you have been born into GOD’S household, you can compromise your relationship with GOD and it will rob you of your rewards. A believer will never lose his or her salvation. However, there are some Christians who believe that you can lose your salvation. I believe once saved always saved. I believe that our spiritual birth is like our spiritual birth. In human birth, once the sperm and egg unite, that is it. A human is created. That human’s father and mother will always be that person’s parent. It is the same with spiritual birth. Once GOD’S Spirit unites with our spirit, we are born of GOD and nothing will ever change that fact. Our obedience to GOD will determine the rewards we will receive in heaven.

Let’s read Hebrews 3:7-11:

Warning against Unbelief

7 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: Today, if you hear His voice, 8 do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the desert, 9 where your fathers tested Me, tried [Me]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , and saw My works 10 for 40 years. Therefore I was provoked with this generation and said, “They always go astray in their hearts, and they have not known My ways.” 11 So I swore in My anger, “They will not enter My rest.”[6] Ps 95:7–11

The author uses another “therefore.” The HOLY SPIRIT was the source of the words written in Psalms 95:7b-11: Today, if you hear His voice:[7] Dt 13:4; Jos 24:24 8 “Do not harden your hearts as at Meribah, as on that day at Massah in the wilderness[8] Ex 17:7; Nm 27:14; Dt 6:16 9 where your fathers tested Me; they tried Me, though they had seen what I did. 10 For 40 years I was disgusted with that generation; I said, ‘They are a people whose hearts go astray; they do not know My ways.’[9] Isa 42:16; Jr 5:4 11 So I swore in My anger, ‘They will not enter My rest.’ ”[10] Heb 3:7–11,15; 4:4–7

The Holy SPIRIT is the source of the same message today. Do not harden your hearts but believe in the leadership of GOD through the HOLY SPIRIT. If you want to enter into the Promised Land of an intimate, loving relationship with GOD, then follow HIM and be obedient to HIS calling. When the Israelites were en-route to the Promised Land, Moses sent twelve (12) spies into the Promised Land. Only two (2) had a positive report. Ten (10) said although it was a land flowing with milk and honey, it had giants. So, in unbelief, they did not enter the Promised Land but wandered in the wilderness for forty (40) years. Joshua and Caleb who had given a positive report had to wander with them for forty (40) years but eventually entered the Promised Land.

It is the same today. We still face giants as we journey in faith. GOD told the Israelites that HE was their victor over all giants. The same message is true today for all believers. It is vital that HE is the ONE WHO is doing the leading. It is easy for believers, through their own desires, to go where GOD has not led them. When that happens, the results are most often not good.

Let’s read Hebrews 3:12-14:

12 Watch out, brothers, so that there won’t be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart that departs from the living God. 13 But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today, so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception. 14 For we have become companions of the • Messiah if we hold firmly until the end the reality[7] Or confidence that we had at the start.

After building the foundation using an example of unbelief of their forefathers, the author warns the Christians to keep a careful watch on their spiritual attitude and to look out for each other. There is always the danger of drifting away, neglecting or compromising what they already know to be truth in CHRIST, to follow some whelm or peer group. This seems to be a charge to the church or body of believers to encourage one another and challenge one another to not grow cold but to grow to be more like JESUS. Life circumstances can sometimes harden an immature Christian’s heart. If they will continue in the faith, then understanding will come as they seek GOD’S help. Sometimes GOD calls fellow believers to come along side those who are struggling.

The HOLY SPIRIT comes along side of believers to aid them in times of trouble. The same idea is implied here. We, as brothers and sisters in CHRIST, are to come alongside of fellow believers to encourage and help them when we see that they are beginning to drift away. Sometimes the burdens of life just get the best of all of us and we get weary. We all need encouraging at times. So when you see or know of a brother or sister that seems to be drifting away, go to them and see if you can help them or encourage them to stay in the race of Christian life.

It is vital that we encourage each other daily. We can be encouraged as we read the Bible, pray and fellowship with other believers. We, as part of the living body of believers, are to encourage one another while we still have the opportunity to do so. In doing so, it will build our strength in CHRIST and when tested, we will remain true to our calling even unto death.

JESUS the Messiah was true unto death and since we are brothers with HIM through the miracle of the rebirth, HIS nature abides in us. Just as HE endured to the end, so will us, when tested because HIS nature abides in us. The same faith that was so revealing when we first encountered CHRIST will remain just as vibrant in our lives, if we do not fall away to chase other religions or philosophies. CHRIST in you is the hope of Glory.

The same is true today. We can be enticed to follow other doctrines or religions in the quest to be spiritually fulfilled. It is vital that we know and study the Bible to make sure we do not compromise the fundamentals of the gospel of CHRIST. Study GOD’S Word to know and understand what HE says is the truth. Make certain you are on a firm foundation of truth.

When believers are on a firm foundation of truth, they are better prepared to remain faithful and endure in this life. Our home is not earth but heaven. Reach out and encourage a brother or sister that is struggling.

A Focused Life - Hebrews 1 and 2 - August 3, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – A Focused Life – August 3, 2008

This is lesson one (1) in a new series of study entitled “Life at Its Best.”

August 3 – Focusing on CHRIST
August 10 – Being faithful to JESUS
August 17 – Growing Spiritually
August 23 – Worshiping and witnessing with confidence
August 30 – Being more consistent in your Christian walk

Our scripture is Hebrews 1:1-6, 10-14; 2:1-4.

Our study for the month of August will be in Hebrews. Hebrews is an exciting book to study. It explodes with understanding and fundamentals that bridge the old covenant and the new covenant instituted by CHRIST.

We are not sure who wrote Hebrews. Some scholars think it was the Apostle Paul but other potential authors are Luke, Barnabas, Apollos, Silas, Priscilla and Phillip. It was written around 70 A.D. It is believed that the audience was second- generation Christians. Tradition was a very strong motive for Christian Jews to return to their old ways of worship. The temptation to leave Christianity and return to Judaism was powerful because the Christian Jews had not grown and matured in their walk with CHRIST. They needed a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of their faith. Going from “religion”, which has ritual and physical things that a follower has to do, to CHRIST being in you, as a believer, is a huge change in worship – works versus faith. It is easy to understand, without a good understanding of the fundamentals of what CHRIST in you means versus going to the temple to worship GOD, why some Christian Jews were being lured back to Judaism.

We, as humans, are works orientated. Grace far exceeds having to follow the dictates of the law. Obediently following GOD’S commands through the prompting of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT is more awkward and less reassuring than following specific guidelines to be obedient to GOD. As a Christian, we are individually and personally accountable and responsible to GOD. It is more comforting to shift that responsibility to a priest or pastor but as Christians the buck stops with us. Christians have direct access to GOD. We do not need a priest or pastor to take our problems or sins to GOD; we can go to GOD, directly, ourselves 24/7. Hebrews helps us to understand this.
During the month of July we studied selected scripture from the Book of Revelation. Believers know how the world will end and until it does end GOD wants us to serve HIM, as HE directs us, while there is still time for the lost to receive forgiveness and salvation. Armed with this knowledge, we are to build and maintain our relationship with CHRIST. Understanding our basic foundation in CHRIST is vital for us to have the relationship GOD wants us to have with HIM. HE is our teacher, through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, as we study HIS Word, pray and obediently serve HIM. My prayer is that our LORD will reveal and dispel any false notions we have about HIM. Once these false notions or assumptions are identified and dispelled, it clears the path for us to have a deeper relationship with CHRIST.

GOD teaches believers through on-the-job training. HE gives us baby steps and then scales up as we gain trust and confidence in HIM. Often, we let our eagerness to serve get ahead of HIS call for us to serve. HE lets us travel that road and learn from it. It is vital that we keep in step with HIM as HE leads us daily to serve HIM. We must keep in mind that we were not created for time but for eternity. If it takes most of our earthly life to understand truth and apply truth in our walk with HIM, it is worth the wait. There is a balance between our ability to comprehend and understand and our spiritual growth and maturity. GOD created the world in seven (7) days. When you read Genesis you find that what HE created on day one (1) was vital to what happened on day two (2). What HE created on day two (2) was vital to what HE created on day three (3) and so forth. It is the same with our spiritual growth and maturity. Whether or not we grow and mature spiritually is our choice. When we choose to be obedient to CHRIST then the growth and maturing begins. HE reveals spiritual matters to us based upon our spiritual ability to comprehend them. They build upon each other. What HE reveals to us today becomes a building block for HE will teach us tomorrow – tomorrow being the length of time needed for us to assimilate what HE has revealed to us. The process continues throughout our lifetime into eternity.

Let’s read Hebrews 1:1-3:

The Nature of the Son

1 Long ago God spoke to the fathers by the prophets at different times and in different ways. 2 In these last days, He has spoken to us by [His]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things and through whom He made the universe.[1] Lit ages 3 He is the radiance[2] Or reflection of His glory, the exact expression[3] Or representation, or copy, or reproduction of His nature, and He sustains all things by His powerful word. After making purification for sins,[4] Other mss read for our sins by Himself He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.[5] Or He sat down on high at the right hand of the Majesty

The writer of Hebrews is very knowledgeable of the Old Testament scriptures and uses the Old Testament scripture to educate and inspire his or her audience. The author is building a bridge to show that CHRIST fulfills the Old Testament scriptures. In the Old Testament days, GOD spoke in many different ways to HIS chosen vessels – Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Isaiah and the list goes on. GOD was more visible to some of the prophets than others. He spoke to Moses through a burning bush and face to face without Moses seeing HIS face. The important thing is that GOD speaks to HIS children any way HE chooses. This was true then and true today. HIS message has not changed. GOD loves and seeks obedient children.

In essence the author was saying, since CHRIST has come into the world, GOD was speaking directly to mankind through CHRIST. Why, because CHRIST is the exact expression of GOD’S nature. HE is the exact representation of GOD in human form. GOD placed all power into HIS hands. CHRIST spoke the world into being. CHRIST formed man and gave life to mankind. CHRIST is the Word. HE proved WHO HE is by giving HIS life for the sins of mankind through HIS death and resurrection from the dead. CHRIST was given HIS glorified body when HE was resurrected. HE ascended into Heaven and sat down at the right hand of GOD as proof that HE had obediently accomplished HIS mission.

In the Old Testament, GOD spoke through prophets but in the New Testament, HE speaks directly through HIS SON WHO is the exact expression of GOD, as JESUS explains to Philip in John 14:7-11:

Jesus Reveals the Father

7 “If you know Me, you will also know[4] Other mss read If you had known Me, you would have known My Father. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.” 8 “Lord,” said Philip, “show us the Father, and that’s enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been among you all this time without your knowing Me, Philip? The one who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me?[5] Jn 10:30,38 The words I speak to you I do not speak on My own. The Father who lives in Me does His works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me. Otherwise, believe[6] Other mss read believe Me because of the works themselves.

In John 1:1-4 we find that in the beginning JESUS was identified as the Word and HE created all things:

1 In the beginning[1] Gn 1:1 was the Word,[2] The Word (Gk Logos) is a title for Jesus as the communication and the revealer of God the Father; Jn 1:14,18; Rv 19:13. and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created.[3]

CHRIST is still in charge and runs the universe with the power of HIS Word.
This is the message the author wants to convey. When we examine the scriptures, they are the revelation of GOD, on an ever ascending scale, revealing HIS plan to redeem mankind, culminating with the birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension of CHRIST. GOD dwelt on earth in human form, spoke directly to mankind, performed miracles and died for the sins of mankind. As proof that HE conquered sin and death, HE was resurrected from the dead.

HE ascended into Heaven and sat at the right-hand of the FATHER. HIS work was completed until HE returns for the final days, as we studied in the Book of Revelation last month.

JESUS is the power that maintains the universe and guides it to a final conclusion. This thought is expressed in verse 3.

Let’s read Hebrews 1:4-6, 10-14:

4 So He became higher in rank than the angels, just as the name He inherited is superior to theirs.

The Son Superior to Angels

5 For to which of the angels did He ever say, You are My Son; today I have become Your Father,[6] Or have begotten You [7] Ps 2:7 or again, I will be His Father, and He will be My Son?[8] 2 Sm 7:14; 1 Ch 17:13 6 When He again brings His firstborn into the world,[9] Or And again, when He brings His firstborn into the world He says, And all God’s angels must worship Him.[10] Dt 32:43 LXX; Ps 97:7

The author of Hebrews sets JESUS apart from angels. Angels are ministering servants. Just as I try to use scripture to confirm a statement, the author of Hebrews used scripture to confirm statements such as in verse 5 by using - Psalm 2:7 - 7 I will declare the Lord’s decree: He said to Me, “You are My Son;[9] Or me, “You are My son today I have become Your[10] Or your Father.[11] This gives us a clue that the audience is likely well versed in scripture.

To emphasize that JESUS is superior to angels, in verse 6, the author states that the angels will worship HIM. This verse can be confusing with the phrase “When HE again brings HIS first born into the world.” An alternate translation is “And again, when HE brings HIS first born into the world.”

Let’s read Hebrews 1:10-14:

10 And: In the beginning, Lord, You established the earth, and the heavens are the works of Your hands; 11 they will perish, but You remain. They will all wear out like clothing; 12 You will roll them up like a cloak,[16] Other mss omit like a cloak and they will be changed like a robe. But You are the same, and Your years will never end.[17] Ps 102:25–27 13 Now to which of the angels has He ever said: Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies Your footstool?[18] Or enemies a footstool for Your feet [19] Ps 110:1 14 Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve those who are going to inherit salvation?

Psalm 102:25-27 is reflected in verses 10-12. The Psalmist is referring to GOD but the author of Hebrews is referring to CHRIST. The physical things, earth and sky, will one day perish but CHRIST, on the other hand, is eternal and will never perish or end. This statement was likely directed toward some of the Greek and Roman philosophers because they thought the earth and sky were eternal. This gives us a clue that the audience was well educated.

The role of angels was addressed again. Angels are ministering spirits to those who are to receive salvation. Satan would love nothing better than to kill off all who are to receive salvation. GOD has a plan for all of HIS children and sends HIS angels to watch over them.

Let’s read Hebrews 2:1-4:

Warning against Neglect

1 We must therefore pay even more attention to what we have heard, so that we will not drift away. 2 For if the message spoken through angels was legally binding,[1] Or valid, or reliable and every transgression and disobedience received a just punishment, 3 how will we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was first spoken by the Lord and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him. 4 At the same time, God also testified by signs and wonders, various miracles, and distributions [of gifts]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. from the Holy Spirit according to His will.

The use of the word “therefore” refers back to all that had been said. Since these things are true, focus on truth and not tradition or some feel good statements that have no basis for believing. Stay focused on what you know to be the truth, so you will not drift away from it.

The audience for Hebrews seems to have been giving a lot of value to angels. If they considered the message of angels so important and punishable, if broken, how much more accountable are those who know the message spoken by JESUS, WHO is the exact representation of GOD. Do not lose your focus on CHRIST and do not neglect the gift of salvation.

The terms “focus” and “neglect” apply to both the non-Christian and the Christian. For the non-Christian, it means they know they need to focus on spiritual matters but they let other things lure them away from being a Christian – pride, peer pressure, evil desires, addictions and the list goes on and on. For the Christian, it means they know the truth but unless they stay focused on CHRIST, it is easy for them to drift away and neglect growing and maturing spiritually. Christians can also be lured away by many of the same things as non-Christians. Since so much importance was placed on complying with the message of angels, to turn your back on the message of CHRIST was far more serious.

The message of CHRIST was first spoken by HIM to HIS disciples who in turn communicated it others. As proof that HIS disciples were communicating truth, GOD authenticated the message of CHRIST spoken by them through miracles, signs, wonders and gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT.

This puts the message of CHRIST into perspective and gives non-believers, as well as believers, something to ponder. Do you have the power and joy of CHRIST in your life?

Verse 3, to me, gives a clue that the Apostle Paul did not author Hebrews. Paul had a special, personal encounter with CHRIST on the road to Damascus. He considered himself to be an apostle because he saw CHRIST, was specially called by CHRIST and was specially commissioned by CHRIST to carry the gospel to the Gentiles. Paul considered that he received the message directly from CHRIST and not second-handed. This special calling was confirmed by the LORD blessing his ministry through the manifestation of the power of the HOLY SPIRIT.

As we reflect on this scripture, we need to ask our LORD to reveal to us anything that is causing us to lose our focus on HIM, causing us to drift away from HIM or neglect HIM. Are we spending time in HIS Word, talking to HIM in prayer, listening to what HE has to tell us, responding to what HE asks us to do and maintaining our relationship with HIM? Are we obediently serving HIM as HE directs us? Believers must put into action what our LORD is teaching us. Many of us go to church, Bible studies, Sunday school, various spiritual group meetings, etc. but are we applying what GOD is revealing to us. Or do we only take in the Word but never apply the Word.

First, make sure that your relationship with CHRIST is what it should be. Let HIM show you what HE wants you to do and then do it. As you take baby steps that HE directs, as you grow and mature spiritually HE will direct you to take giant steps.

In this busy world we live in, it is easy to compromise our time with HIM and our focus on HIM. If you sense you have drifted away from the LORD, confess it and ask HIM to restore the joy of fellowship with HIM.