August 19, 2007

Hebrews - Part 14 : Conclusion

Steve Lane

A. Introduction

To three groups

The depth of what He is asking of us, and our resistance to it.

B. The Superiority of Christ

Hebrews 1: 1 - 3, 6 - 8
Rest in His superiority

C.
A Stern Warning to Stay on Course

Hebrews 2: 1
Don't miss the only harbor of rest
Hebrews 4: 9 - 11
This is where we are headed. He has promised us victorious living.

D.
Making Tacks

Hebrews 3: 7 - 8

Encourage one another daily. Hebrews 3: 12 - 13
The Living and active Word of God. Hebrews 4: 12 - 13
Approaching the Throne of Grace. Hebrews 4: 6

E. Drawing Near to God

Hebrews 7: 18 - 19
Where do we place our hope and security? What are we pursuing?

Hebrews 5: 11 - 14
Stern warnings: backward steps are difficult to recover.

F. To Have Faith, or to Shrink Back

Hebrews 10: 35 - 38
What are you counting on for encouragement?
Jesus' call to discipleship: Come follow Me. Fix your eyes on Me.

"Only one thing was required in each case... to rely on Christ's Words, and cling to it as offering greater security than all the securities in the world. The forces which tried to interpose themselves between the word of Jesus and the response of obedience, were as formidable then as they are today. Reason and conscience, responsibility and piety all stood in the way."

-Dietrick Bonhoeffer

Why did they get the prize? They had faith all the way through.

G. The Discipline of the Lord

Hebrews 12: 7 - 11
Do not be shocked when difficult things come.

H. Esau's Issue

Hebrews 12: 16
Esau, who traded a life of faith for the temporary and immediate meeting of his desires.

I. Final Exhortations

Hebrews 13: 20 - 21
Jesus, the Great Shepherd of our souls, has provided this message.