Historical Posts
Hebrews 11:01-07 Faith That Pleases God – audio
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Text: Hebrews 11:1-7
Introduction
1. A key concern in this epistle is that Christians must remain strong in faith
a. There is the danger of developing a heart of unbelief – Hebrews 3:12
b. It was the lack of faith that destroyed Israel – Hebrews 3:16-19
2. In chapter ten, we saw:
a. An exhortation to draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith – Hebrews 10:22
b. An admonition to have that faith which endures to the end – Hebrews 10:35-39
3. But one might ask:
a. What is this faith which leads us to draw near to God and endure to the end?
b. How does this faith manifest itself in the lives of those who possess it?
4. In chapter eleven, we find the answer to such questions
a. With a explanation of faith – Hebrews 11:1
b. With a warning of how necessary faith is to please God – Hebrews 11:6
c. With examples of Old Testament saints who demonstrated saving faith – Hebrews 11:3-40
Body
I. WHAT IS BIBLICAL FAITH? (Hebrews 11:1-3)
A. FAITH IS CONFIDENCE AND CONVICTION
1. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for… (Hebrews 11:1 NKJV)
a. The Greek word translated substance is hupostasis {hoop-os’-tas-is}
b. Literally, it means to stand under, i.e., to be a foundation
c. As translated in Hebrews 3:14, it means confidence; i.e., firm trust, assurance
d. Other translations illustrate that the main idea is confidence
1) Now faith is being sure of what we hope for… (Hebrews 11:1 NIV)
2) Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for… (Hebrews 11:1 ESV, Hebrews 11:1 NASB)
2. …the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:3 NKJV)
a. The Greek word translated evidence is elegchos {el’-eng-khos}
b. It means conviction
c. How other versions translate this phrase
1) Certain of what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:3 NIV)
2) The conviction of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:3 ESV, Hebrews 11:3 NASB)
B. PERTAINING TO THINGS HOPED FOR AND NOT SEEN
1. Faith is confidence about things hoped for, such as:
a. The coming of our Lord – Titus 2:13
b. The resurrection of the dead – Acts 24:15
c. It was this kind of confidence possessed by the OT elders that pleased God – Hebrews 11:2
2. Faith is conviction about things we have not seen, such as:
a. The existence of God: whom no man has seen or can see – 1 Timothy 6:16
b. How the world began: the worlds were framed by the word of God – Hebrews 11:3
c. Yet faith is that strong conviction that such matters are true
3. As expressed in verse 2, the elders obtained a good testimony because of their faith. The rest of the chapter is filled with illustrations of their faith. First, let’s look at the antediluvians.
II. GIVE ME SOME EXAMPLES OF FAITH (Hebrews 11:4-5, Hebrews 11:7)
A. THE TESTIMONY OF ABEL (HOW FAITH WORSHIPS)
1. By faith he offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain – Hebrews 11:4
a. The reference is to Genesis 4:3-5
1) Cain’s offering was of the fruit of the ground
2) Abel’s offering was of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat.
3) It is said the Lord respected Abel’s offering, but not Cain’s
b. Why did God respect Abel’s offering, but not Cain’s?
1) It may have been that God had specified an animal sacrifice
2) It may be Cain offered left-overs, while Abel offered his best (the firstborn)
3) Cain’s attitude may have been wrong; he certainly showed himself prone to display envy and hatred, capable of murder!
4) Perhaps most likely, Abel offered his with faith while Cain did not
2. Through faith Abel obtained witness that he was righteous – Hebrews 11:4
a. God certainly testified of his righteousness in showing respect to his offering
b. Jesus also bore witness to the righteousness of Abel – Matthew 23:35
c. The apostle John also – 1 John 3:12
3. Through his faith, he being dead still speaks – Hebrews 11:4
a. His example of faith was written for our learning – Romans 15:4
b. His example of faith continues to warn us in regards to worshipping God
B. THE TESTIMONY OF ENOCH (HOW FAITH WALKS)
1. By his faith, Enoch was translated so that he did not see death – Hebrews 11:5
a. The historical reference alluded to is Genesis 5:21-24
b. Like Elijah, he did not experience death – 2 Kings 2:1-11
2. His faith was such that he pleased God – Hebrews 11:5
a. What God found pleasing is that he walked with God – Genesis 5:22, 24
b. His example of faith illustrates the value of walking with God throughout life
C. THE TESTIMONY OF NOAH (HOW FAITH WORKS)
1. By faith Noah, moved with godly fear – Hebrews 11:7
a. The scriptural background is Genesis 6:1-22
b. God warned him about things not seen (Hebrews 11:1); the coming flood
c. His confidence (faith) in what God said would happen prompted him to act with reverence toward God
2. By faith Noah prepared an ark for the saving of his household – Hebrews 11:7
a. His faith moved him to do according to all that God commanded him – Genesis 6:22; Genesis 7:5
b. Through such faith working, Noah
1) Condemned the world
a) His own example of faithfulness stood in stark contrast to others
b) His obedience magnified the lack of obedience in others
c) Just as Nineveh will condemn those who did not listen to Jesus – Matthew 12:41
2) Became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith
a) He received the standing of being right in God’s eyes
b) It was his faith that so pleased God!
3) Demonstrated that faith and works are not necessarily contrary to one another – Galatians 5:6; James 2:14-26
D. From the examples of these antediluvian elders we learn that the faith is a strong conviction that worships God properly, walks with Him in life, and works as He directs.
III. HOW IMPORTANT IS FAITH? (Hebrews 11:6)
A. WITHOUT FAITH IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE GOD
1. We have seen how Abel, Enoch, and Noah obtained a good testimony by their faith
2. Of Enoch in particular it is said he pleased God – Hebrews 11:5
3. Whether we are worshipping, walking, or working, faith must be the motivating factor behind it all — Without faith, then, there is nothing we can do that will please God!
B. THE FAITH WHICH PLEASES GOD
1. Includes conviction that believes that God is
a. We must believe there is a God, and He is the God of the Bible
b. Though we do not see Him, we have conviction in things not seen – Hebrews 11:1b
2. Includes confidence that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him
a. We must believe that God acts on the part of those seek after Him
b. It is regarding such things hoped for, that we must have confidence – Hebrews 11:1a
3. Such was the faith seen in the lives of Abel, Enoch, and Noah; one might ask how we develop such faith today…?
IV. HOW SAVING FAITH IS DEVELOPED?
A. FAITH IS NOT THE RESULT OF FEELINGS
1. A common misconception is that faith is blind
2. That there is no logic or reason to faith, one simply believes
B. BUT FAITH AS DESCRIBED IN THE BIBLE IS THE RESULT OF EVIDENCE!
1. Faith in God is the result of evidence provided via creation – Romans 1:20; Psalm 19:1
2. Faith in Jesus is the result of evidence provided via revelation – John 20:30-31
3. Certainly the antediluvians had such evidence, including God speaking to them directly!
C. TODAY, FAITH COMES BY HEARING THE WORD OF GOD – Romans 10:17
1. The word of God presents evidence to believe in God and Jesus
2. Such as fulfilled prophecy, eyewitness testimony, etc.
3. Through God’s word, we can develop the kind of faith which pleases God! – Romans 15:4
Conclusion
1. The faith which leads to the saving of the soul is one that includes:
a. A strong conviction that God is
b. A strong confidence that He will reward those who diligently seek Him
2. It is the same kind of faith that we see in:
a. Abel, in how he worshipped God
b. Enoch, in how he walked with God
c. Noah, in how he worked for God
3. Do you have that same kind of faith today?
a. If you don’t, let the Word of God create such faith in you
1) It can produce faith in the existence of God!
2) It can produce faith in Jesus as His Son who died for you!
b. If you do, then let it affect the manner in which you:
1) Worship God
2) Walk with God
3) Work for God
4) As revealed through His Son Jesus Christ
4. With the right kind of faith, we can have the assurance that:
a. God is pleased
b. We are heirs of the righteousness which is according to faith
c. We too will one day obtain a good testimony!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 10:26-39 A Warning Against Willful Sin – audio
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Text: Hebrews 10:26-39
Introduction
1. Immediately following a gracious exhortation to draw near to God and hold fast the confession of our hope, we find an ominous warning
a. It is a warning against willful sin – Hebrews 10:26-39
b. It speaks of reaching a terrible state in which:
1) There longer remains a sacrifice for sins
2) There is a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation
2. Is this a warning for Christians? Some would say no
a. They believe in the doctrine once saved, always saved
b. They hold that true Christians:
1) Cannot so sin to point of being eternally lost
2) If they begin to sin to the point where they might be lost, God will intervene and take their life to prevent it from happening
3. Does the Bible teach once saved, always saved?
a. It does teach the security of the believer (i.e., those who remain faithful are secure)
b. But it also teaches that a believer can become an unbeliever, at which point a person has every reason to fear for his or her salvation! – Hebrews 3:12-14
4. The possibility of apostasy (falling away) is taught in the Bible, especially in the epistle to Hebrews
a. We have already seen several warnings implying this possibility:
1) A warning against drifting – Hebrews 2:1-4
2) A warning against departing – Hebrews 3:12-14
3) A warning against disobedience – Hebrews 4:11
4) A warning against dullness, leading to apostasy – Hebrews 5:11-6:6
b. But perhaps now, with a warning against willful sin, we learn the real danger of losing our salvation if we despise what we have received! – Hebrews 10:26-39
Body
I. WHAT IT MEANS TO SIN WILLFULLY (Hebrews 10:26)
A. COMPARE OTHER TRANSLATIONS
1. If we deliberately keep on sinning… (NIV)
2. For if we go on sinning deliberately… (ESV)
3. For if we go on sinning willfully… (NASB)
B. THE SENSE OF THE GREEK IS ONE OF REPEATED ACTION
1. Implying not an act of sin, but a state of sin
a. All Christians have moments of weakness, or ignorantly sin – 1 John 1:8-10
b. It is not inadvertent sin, but deliberate sin that is under consideration
2. A state in which one:
a. Knows the truth – Hebrews 10:26b
b. Yet chooses to deliberately and continuously persist in sin!
C. CAN A TRUE CHRISTIAN EVER REACH THIS POINT? YES!!!
1. Note the pronoun we (the author includes himself in the warning) – Hebrews 10:26a
2. He later describes one who was sanctified by the blood of the covenant – Hebrews 10:29
3. This warning is directed to those who have been sanctified by the blood of Jesus!
4. When one persists in sin willfully, they are in grave danger. This is especially true when one is a Christian!
II. THE CONSEQUENCES OF WILLFUL SIN (Hebrews 10:26-27)
A. THERE NO LONGER REMAINS A SACRIFICE FOR SIN
1. What sacrifice is under consideration here? Christ’s sacrifice!
2. What sacrifice no longer remains? Christ’s sacrifice!
3. The blood of Christ is no longer available for one who persists in willful sin!
B. WHAT DOES REMAIN?
1. a certain fearful expectation of judgment – Hebrews 10:27a
a. One can expect a judgment that is certain! – Hebrews 9:27; Acts 17:30-31
b. One can expect a judgment that is fearful!
1) For we must answer to Christ Himself – 2 Corinthians 5:10-11
2) And we will be in the hands of the living God! – Hebrews 10:30-31
2. A fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries – Hebrews 10:27b
a. A judgment involving fire – Revelation 21:8
b. A judgment involving indignation (the wrath of God) – Romans 2:5-11
c. Such a judgment will devour – Matthew 10:28
III. THE JUSTIFICATION FOR PUNISHING WILLFUL SIN (Hebrews 10:28-31)
A. WHAT WAS REQUIRED UNDER THE OLD COVENANT?
1. Death without mercy! – Hebrews 10:28
2. Such was the punishment for a particular kind of sin:
a. Sin that was deliberate
1) In which one rejected Moses’ law (NKJV)
2) In which one despised Moses’ law (KJV)
b. Sin that was open
1) It had to be seen by two or more
2) For death was not rendered unless there were two or three witnesses
c. Again, it is WILLFULL sin that is under discussion
3. While there was mercy for sins of weakness or ignorance, there was none for open and deliberate sin under the Old Covenant!
B. WHAT IS REQUIRED UNDER THE NEW COVENANT?
1. One is worthy of much worse punishment! – Hebrews 10:29
a. What could be worse than physical death?
b. Only fiery indignation! (hell)
2. Why? Because a Christian who sins willfully has:
a. trampled the Son of God underfoot
1) It denotes contempt of the most flagrant kind
2) Such a person treats Jesus who died for him like dirt!
b. counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing
1) The blood of the covenant clearly refers to Jesus’ blood – Hebrews 9:14-22; Hebrews 13:20
2) It is by this blood one is sanctified
3) Such a person considered Jesus’ blood a common thing!
c. insulted the Spirit of grace
1) A reference to the Holy Spirit
a) Through Whom the message of salvation was given – John 16:13-14
b) Through Whom our sanctification takes place – 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5-7
2) A person who openly and deliberately sins insults God’s grace!
3. This passage clearly teaches two things:
a. That a Christian can so sin as to reach this point of open rebellion against Jesus!
b. That the punishment reserved for such is worse than death!
C. IS THIS CONSISTENT WITH GOD’S NATURE?
1. Isn’t God a God of love? Of course! – 1 John 4:8
2. But He is also a God of justice, One who judges His people – Hebrews 10:30
a. To who much is given, much is required – Luke 12:47-48
b. Those who despise His love, set themselves up to be recipients of His wrath – Romans 2:4-6
3. Therefore it truly is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God – Hebrews 10:31
IV. THE SOLUTION TO AVOIDING WILLFUL SIN (Hebrews 10:32-39)
A. REMEMBER YOUR EARLY CONFIDENCE
1. The writer reminds his readers of their former days
a. Those days after they were illuminated (enlightened) – Hebrews 10:32
1) Shortly after their conversion
2) In the days of Justin (ca. 167 A.D.), this term was a synonym for baptism
b. Those days in which they were made a spectacle – Hebrews 10:32-34
1) By their own sufferings
2) And by sharing in the sufferings of others, including those of the author
a) In whom they had compassion in his chains
b) In which they joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods
3) Knowing that they had a better and enduring possession in heaven!
2. It is such confidence they must be careful not to cast away – Hebrews 10:35
a. To cast away is the opposite of hold fast
b. Only in holding fast our confidence is there great reward – Hebrews 3:6, Hebrews 3:14
3. Likewise, we need to rekindle the fire of that newfound faith we had when we first responded to the gospel! – Revelation 2:4-5
B. ENDURE TO THE END
1. Endurance is needed to receive the promise – Hebrews 10:36
a. For the Lord is coming – Hebrews 10:37
b. And the just lives by faith – Hebrews 10:38
c. If we draw back (become unfaithful), the Lord will not be pleased! (My soul has no pleasure in him.)
2. The author speaks of his own confidence – Hebrews 10:39
a. He is not of those who draw back to perdition (who cast away their faith)
b. But of those who believe to saving of the soul (who remain faithful to the end)
3. We too need to believe to the saving of the soul, or to put it in the words of Jesus, be faithful unto death – Revelation 2:10
Conclusion
1. We can look forward with great anticipation to the saving of our souls, if we:
a. Remember (and rekindle) that confidence early in our conversion
b. Endure to the end with the faith that saves
2. But with a warning against willful sin, we must never forget that one can
a. Fall from grace!
b. Fall into the hands of the living God!
c. Which is a terrifying thing!
3. How much better, though, to be upheld by the hand of God, as the Psalmist wrote: The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand. – Psalm 37:23-24
4. Such is the case of those who remain strong in their faith and trust in the Lord. Are you believing to the saving of your soul…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 10:19-25 A Gracious Exhortation – audio
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(audio starts part way through the introduction)
Text: Hebrews 10:19-25
Introduction
1. To this point in the epistle to the Hebrews, doctrinal arguments have been presented to encourage faithfulness and steadfastness:
a. Demonstrating the superiority of the Son – Hebrews 1:1-8:6
b. Illustrating the superiority of the New Covenant – Hebrews 8:7-10:18
2. With Hebrews 10:19, the author begins making application based upon these premises:
a. Which he does through a series of exhortations and warnings
b. These comprise the remaining part of this epistle
3. In Hebrews 10:19-25, we find a three-fold exhortation:
a. To draw near to God
b. To hold fast our faith
c. To stimulate one another in love and good works
d. All based upon what Christ has done and will do for us!
Body
I. LET US DRAW NEAR IN FAITH (Hebrews 10:19-22)
A. WE ARE EXHORTED TO DRAW NEAR TO GOD
1. To enter the Holiest – Hebrews 10:19
a. That heavenly place where Christ has entered! – Hebrews 9:11-12
b. Into the presence of God Himself! – Hebrews 9:24
2. How are we to do this?
a. having boldness (with great confidence) – Hebrews 10:19
b. with a true heart (with all sincerity) – Hebrews 10:22
c. in full assurance of faith (without doubt) – Hebrews 10:22
B. WHY ARE WE ABLE TO DO THIS?
1. We are able to enter God’s presence because:
a. Jesus has consecrated a new and living way, through the veil – Hebrews 10:19-20
1) There is now a new way to approach God in heaven, through One who lives!
2) It is made possible by the blood of Jesus…His flesh (His death on the cross)
b. Jesus now serves as a High Priest over the house of God – Hebrews 10:21
1) Who is able to come to our aid – Hebrews 2:17-18
2) Who sympathizes with our weakness – Hebrews 4:14-16
3) Who ever lives to intercede in our behalf – Hebrews 7:24-25
2. But we are also able to enter God’s presence because:
a. We have had our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience – Hebrews 10:24
1) This is an allusion to the Old Testament practice of taking blood from the altar and consecrating the priests by sprinkling them with it – Exodus 29:21
2) It is the blood of Christ purges our conscience of sin – Hebrews 9:14
b. We have had our bodies washed with pure water
1) Another allusion to the manner in which priests were consecrated – Exodus 29:4
2) The author has reference to baptism
a) For baptism is referred to as a washing – Acts 22:16; Ephesians 5:26; Titus 3:5
b) Though the stress is on the inner cleansing, not the outer – 1 Peter 3:21
II. LET US HOLD FAST OUR HOPE (Hebrews 10:23)
A. WE ARE EXHORTED TO HOLD FAST THE CONFESSION OF OUR HOPE
1. In Christ we have a much better hope – Hebrews 6:19; Hebrews 7:19
2. But there is the danger of apostasy – Hebrews 3:12-13; Hebrews 4:11
3. For which reason we must hold fast the hope which we confess – Hebrews 3:6-14; Hebrews 4:14
4. Indeed, we need to hold fast…without wavering – Hebrews 10:23
B. A GOOD REASON TO HEED THIS EXHORTATION
1. The faithfulness of God: for He who promised is faithful – Hebrews 10:23
2. God will not fail us (Hebrews 13:5); therefore we need to emulate the faith of Sarah, who judged Him faithful who had promised – Hebrews 11:11
III. LET US CONSIDER ONE ANOTHER (Hebrews 10:24-25)
A. IN ORDER TO STIR UP LOVE AND GOOD WORKS
1. As we draw near to God and hold fast our hope, we are not to do so alone
2. We are to be mindful of each other and how we are doing (consider one another)
3. With a view to incite or spur on (stir up) both love and good works
4. This is reminiscent of the exhortation in Hebrews 3:12-14
B. ACCOMPLISHED THROUGH FREQUENT ASSEMBLING
1. An important purpose of our assembling is to stir up love and good works
a. Yes, we do come to worship and praise God
b. But we also come to edify and exhort one another! – Hebrews 10:25a
2. Therefore we must not become guilty of forsaking the assembling of ourselves together
a. The word forsake means to abandon, desert
b. To stop assembling with the saints altogether
c. Some evidently had done so (as is the manner of some)
3. Exhorting one another through assembling is even more imperative as you see the Day approaching
a. The Day refers to the Judgment Day at the Second Coming
1) It certainly fits the context of Hebrews 9:27-29; Hebrews 10:27, Hebrews 10:37
2) And while one might not know the day and hour of His coming, we were given some general signs of His coming – 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8
b. The main point is to appreciate the value and necessity of our assemblies, and that forsaking them is indicative of apostasy!
Conclusion
1. With A gracious exhortation, we are encouraged to:
a. Draw near to God in full assurance of faith
b. Hold fast the confession of our hope
c. Consider one another to stir up to love and good works
2. As motivation to heed this exhortation, we are reminded of:
a. The new and living way now open to God, made possible by Jesus’ death
b. The High Priest who now serves for us over the house of God
c. How we have been consecrated through having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water
d. How He who has promised is faithful
e. How we have each other to encourage us along
f. The approaching Day, in particular the Day of Judgment
If we truly appreciate the blessings we now have in Christ, we will do all that we can to draw closer to God, hold fast that hope which we confess, and utilize the opportunities we have to encourage one another in love and good works!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 09:11-28 The Superior Sanctuary – audio
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Text: Hebrews 9:11-28
Introduction
1. In the current section of the epistle to the Hebrews, the focus is on the superiority of the New Covenant which provides:
a. Better promises – Hebrews 8:7-13
b. A better sanctuary – Hebrews 9:1-28
c. A better sacrifice – Hebrews 10:1-18
2. Three weeks ago we considered the earthly sanctuary of the Old Covenant, that tabernacle which:
a. Served as copy and shadow of the heavenly things – Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 8:5
b. Involved fleshly ordinances imposed only until the time of reformation – Hebrews 9:10
c. And was therefore limited in its ability to provide what man truly needed! – Hebrews 9:9b
3. In the second half of the ninth chapter, we are now introduced to the Heavenly Sanctuary of the New Covenant:
a. The true tabernacle in which Christ is a minister – Hebrews 8:2
b. The true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man – Hebrews 8:2
Body
I. IT IS HEAVENLY (Hebrews 9:11, Hebrews 9:24)
A. A GREATER AND MORE PERFECT TABERNACLE
1. A tabernacle not made with hands
2. A tabernacle not of this creation
3. Where then is this tabernacle? Look ahead to Hebrews 9:24
B. IN HEAVEN ITSELF
1. Christ has not entered the earthly tabernacle made with hands
2. It is into heaven itself that Christ has entered!
3. He now appears in the presence of God
4. Therefore the superior sanctuary is none other than heaven, where God dwells!
5. In this heavenly sanctuary Christ serves as High Priest of the good things to come. The good things includes the promises of Jeremiah 31:31-34, especially the one pertaining to forgiveness of sin
II. ITS MINISTRY EFFECTIVELY DEALS WITH SIN (Hebrews 9:12-15)
A. ETERNAL REDEMPTION IS PROVIDED (Hebrews 9:12)
1. Christ entered the Most Holy Place (heaven)
a. Just as the high priest entered the Most Holy Place in the earthly sanctuary
b. With these two major differences:
1) Jesus took not the blood of goats and calves, but His own blood
2) Jesus entered once for all, not once a year
2. With His blood, He obtained eternal redemption
a. This is why He does not need to offer His blood every year – Hebrews 10:10-12
b. But His redemption is eternal in another sense, as seen later in Hebrews 9:15
B. THE CONSCIENCE IS PURGED OF SIN (Hebrews 9:13-14)
1. The blood of animals was able to purify the flesh of an unclean person
2. But the blood of Christ is able to purge the conscience from dead works (i.e., sin) to serve the living God
a. The animal sacrifices could not do this – Hebrews 9:9-10; Hebrews 9:10:1-2
b. For the daily and annual sacrifices constantly reminded them of sin – Hebrews 10:3
c. Therefore Christ not only removes the legal guilt of sin, but also the inward (or emotional) guilt of sin!
C. THERE IS REDEMPTION FOR SINS UNDER THE FIRST COVENANT (Hebrews 9:15)
1. His role as Mediator of the New Covenant is not limited to those who lived after it became of force
2. His death covers not only sinners since His death, but also those who lived under the first covenant, who were called to receive the promise of eternal inheritance!
3. In providing atonement for those before and after His death, Jesus has truly obtained eternal redemption
III. ITS MINISTRY NECESSITATED A COSTLY SACRIFICE (Hebrews 9:16-22)
A. TO INITIATE A NEW TESTAMENT (Hebrews 9:16-17)
1. A testament, or will, requires the death of the one who makes it
2. It does not become of force until the testator dies
3. The New Covenant with its heavenly sanctuary is like a testament, requiring Jesus’ death for it to become of force
B. TO DEDICATE A NEW COVENANT (Hebrews 9:18-23)
1. Consider what was done with the first covenant
a. It was dedicated with the blood of calves and goats
b. Its tabernacle and furniture were purified with the sprinkling of such blood
2. Should the new covenant require any less?
a. The first covenant contained only copies of the things in the heavens
b. The heavenly things required purification by better sacrifices, Jesus’ own blood
IV. ITS MINISTRY IS FINAL AND COMPLETE (Hebrews 9:24-28)
A. CHRIST IS NOW IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD FOR US…
1. No longer is a high priest serving in a tabernacle made with hands
2. No longer is one serving in what was only a copy
3. Jesus is ministering as High Priest in that which is the true holy place!
B. HE ONLY NEEDED TO OFFER HIMSELF ONCE
1. The all-sufficiency of His sacrifice is seen that He only needed to offer Himself once
a. Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often from the foundation of the world
b. Like the high priests of old, who entered the Most Holy Place each year
2. Therefore, at the end of the ages, He came to put away sin once for all!
a. The phrase end of the ages is equivalent to the last days – Hebrews 1:2
b. That final period of the world’s history – 1 Corinthians 10:11; 1 Peter 1:20
3. Just as man dies only once, so Jesus needed to be offered for sin only once
C. WHEN HE COMES AGAIN, IT WILL BE FOR SALVATION, NOT SIN
1. With His first coming, He was primarily the sin-bearer
a. He came to bear the sins of many
b. Which He did by dying on the cross for our sins – 1 Peter 2:24
2. His second coming will be apart from sin
a. To bring salvation (from the wrath of God to come – Romans 5:9)
b. To those who eagerly await for Him – 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10
Conclusion
1. How is the sanctuary of the New Covenant superior?
a. By virtue of its nature: heavenly, not physical
b. By virtue of its ministry:
1) Dealing effectively with sin
2) Providing complete and final deliverance
2. Why should we be interested in the ministry of The Superior Sanctuary?
a. Because death is our appointed lot (unless Christ comes first) – Hebrews 9:27
b. And then comes the judgment – 2 Corinthians 5:10
c. The ministry of Christ prepares us for that coming judgment!
3. Are you prepared to stand before the judgment seat of Christ?
a. Preparation involves obedience, for Jesus is the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him – Hebrews 5:9
b. Preparation involves allowing the blood of Christ to purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God – Hebrews 9:14
4. Through obedience to the precious gospel of Christ, we can eagerly wait for Him, knowing that for us He is coming to bring salvation and not condemnation! – 1 Thessalonians 1:10
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 09:01-10 The Earthly Sanctuary – audio
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Text: Hebrews 9:1-10
Introduction
1. The main points in the “The Epistle To The Hebrews” are rather simple
a. The superiority of Christ – Hebrews 1:1-7:28
b. The superiority of the New Covenant – Hebrews 8:7-10:18
2. In the “transition passage” of Hebrews 8:1-6, we find
a. The first point summarized – Hebrews 8:1
b. The second point introduced – Hebrews 8:2-6
3. In demonstrating the superiority of the New Covenant, three points are made
a. The New Covenant is based upon “better promises”
b. The New Covenant pertains to a “better sanctuary”
c. The New Covenant provides a “better sacrifice”
4. In Hebrews 8:7-13 we read of the “better promises”
a. Foretold through the prophet Jeremiah – cf. Jeremiah 31:31-34
b. In which God promised a closer relationship with His people, made possible by the forgiveness of sin
5. In chapter nine, our attention is now drawn to the matter of the “better sanctuary” provided by the New Covenant
a. To appreciate the author’s argument, we must be acquainted with the sanctuary of the first covenant
b. Therefore we find a brief discussion concerning “The Earthly Sanctuary” – Hebrews 9:1-10
c. We could turn back to the books of Exodus and Leviticus to read about the earthly sanctuary, but in our text we find a helpful and concise summary.
Body
I. THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY: ITS DESCRIPTION (Hebrews 9:1-5)
A. THE HOLY PLACE (Hebrews 9:2)
1. This was the first part of the tabernacle, in which the priests entered daily
2. Inside of it were
a. The lampstand – Exodus 25:31-40; Exodus 26:35
1) Placed next to the south wall of the tabernacle
2) Made of gold and had seven lamps for burning olive oil
3) It was never allowed to go out
b. The table and the showbread – Exodus 25:23-30; Exodus 26:35; Leviticus 24:5-9
1) A table overlaid with gold
2) On which were kept twelve loaves of bread, in two rows of six
3) Fresh loaves were brought in each Sabbath, and the old were eaten by the priests – 1 Samuel 21:3-6; Matthew 12:3-4
B. THE HOLIEST OF ALL (Hebrews 9:3-5)
1. This was the part of the tabernacle behind the veil, also called “The Most Holy” – Exodus 26:31-33
2. This innermost room of the tabernacle, the holiest place in the worship of Israel, had
a. The golden altar of incense (golden censor, KJV)
1) The golden altar of incense was actually in the Holy Place, just on the other side of the veil separating the two rooms – Exo 30:1-10
a) On this altar sweet spices were continually burned with fire taken from the brazen altar (which was outside the tabernacle)
b) The morning and evening services were begun by the High priest offering incense on this altar
c) Once a year, the High Priest would take a censer of burning coals from this altar along with incense into the The Most Holy Place – Leviticus 16:12
2) It is appropriate to say the The Most Holy Place “had” the golden altar
a) For the smoke of the daily incense would permeate through the veil, and as such be “a perpetual incense before the LORD” – Exodus 30:8
b) The annual ceremony on the Day of Atonement connected in a tangible way the altar of incense with The Most Holy Place – Leviticus 16:12
b. The ark of the covenant
1) A chest made of acacia wood, about four feet long by two and half feet high and wide – Exodus 25:10-16
2) Covered with gold, it was the most sacred thing in the tabernacle
3) In it contained:
a) The golden pot that had the manna – Exodus 16:32-34
b) Aaron’s rod that budded – Numbers 17:1-11
c) The tablets of the covenant – Deuteronomy 10:1-5
4) Covering the ark was the mercy seat – Exodus 25:17-22
a) This lid, covered with gold, was topped with two cherubim (with wings stretched upward, and their faces “toward each other and toward the mercy seat.”)
b) The Lord was said to appear in a cloud above the mercy seat – Leviticus 16:2; Numbers 7:89; 2 Kings 19:5
3. As stated by the author himself, “of these things we cannot now speak in detail”. But a little more is now said regarding the ritual of the earthly sanctuary
II. THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY: IT’S RITUAL (Hebrews 9:6-7)
A. THE RITUAL OF THE HOLY PLACE (Hebrews 9:6)
1. Every morning and evening, the priests would go into The Holy Place “performing the services”
a. They would trim the lamps on the lampstand – Exodus 27:20-21
b. They would offer incense on the altar of incense – Exodus 30:7-8
2. On the Sabbath, the priests would replace the Showbread – Leviticus 25:4-9
3. But none went into The Most Holy Place during these daily services
B. THE RITUAL OF THE MOST HOLY PLACE (Hebrews 9:7)
1. Once a year, only the high priest entered The Most Holy Place – Leviticus 16:2
a. On the Day of Atonement
b. The tenth day of the seventh month – Leviticus 16:29
2. The high priest would do three things:
a. Offer the incense to cloud the mercy seat – Leviticus 16:12-13
b. Sprinkle the mercy seat with the blood of a bull, as a sin offering for himself and his family – Leviticus 16:11,14
c. Sprinkle the mercy seat with the blood of a goat, as a sin offering for the people – Leviticus 16:15
3. In this way he offered blood for his own sins and those of the people committed in ignorance – Hebrews 9:7
4. With this summary of the ritual of the earthly sanctuary, we are reminded of the sort of services rendered under the first covenant. But what was the true purpose of such service? And did the sacrifices provide complete redemption? These questions are addressed in the next three verses.
III. THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY: ITS SYMBOLISM AND LIMITATION (Hebrews 9:8-10)
A. IT WAS SYMBOLIC
1. As already stated, the tabernacle and its service was “a copy and shadow of the Heavenly things” – Hebrews 8:4-5
2. Thus it was “symbolic for the present time” – Hebrews 9:9
a. Symbolizing what eventually would occur when Christ came
b. Symbolizing what Christ has now done in reality when He entered heaven – Hebrews 9:11-12, Hebrews 9:24-26
3. The Holy Spirit was thus indicating that “the way into heaven itself was not yet made manifest” – Hebrews 9:8
B. THERE WERE LIMITATIONS
1. The gifts and sacrifices could not make one perfect in regard to the conscience – Hebrews 9:9; cf. Hebrews 9:14; Hebrews 10:1-4
2. The ceremonies involved “fleshly ordinances imposed until the time of reformation” – Hebrews 9:10
a. Just as the sanctuary was “earthly”, the ordinances were “fleshly”
1) In contrast to that which is heavenly, spiritual
2) Indeed, all of the ritual was designed to impact the physical side of man
a) His senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch)
b) The burning of incense, the blowing of trumpets, the vestments
b. Such ordinances were designed to be temporary
1) Until “the time of reformation”, when changes in worship would be made
2) Indeed, now God expects “spiritual” worship – John 4:21-24
a) Worship that is more in keeping with God’s true nature (Spirit)
b) Worship that focuses on the inner man
1. Singing, where the emphasis is on melody made in the heart – Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16
2. Even in the Lord’s Supper, which has physical elements, the emphasis is on the communion we share in the body of and blood of Jesus as we commemorate His death – 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
3. Therefore we should not be surprised to learn that the early church did not simply incorporate the fleshly ordinances of the first covenant into their worship
Conclusion
1. The earthly sanctuary and its fleshly ordinances served God’s purpose well
a. It revealed the terrible nature and high price of sin
b. It revealed the need for the shedding of blood to provide the remission of sin
c. It prepared people for the coming of the ultimate sacrifice and complete redemption
2. But as useful as it was, it was temporary and symbolic
a. A copy and shadow of what was to come
b. Designed to vanish away when what it represented came to pass
3. As we shall see more fully in our next study
a. Christ has come and entered into “the greater and more perfect tabernacle”
b. He has “obtained eternal redemption”
c. He has made it possible to “purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God”
4. Why would one ever wish to go back to the earthly sanctuary and its fleshly ordinances?
5. Why do some people wish to introduce Old Testament practices into the worship of the Lord’s church?
6. It can only be a failure to appreciate what we now have in Christ, and the kind of worshippers God now desires. As Jesus told the Samaritan woman at the well:
“But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” – John 4:23-24
7. Are we worshipping God the way He desires? Or in whatever way that appeals to our fleshly senses and personal desires?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 08:07-13 The Promises of God’s New Covenant – audio
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Text: Hebrews 8:7-13
Introduction
1. Up to this point, the focus of the letter to the Hebrews has been on Christ
a. His superiority to prophets, angels, Moses
b. The superiority of His priesthood to the Levitical priesthood
2. With the transition in Hebrews 8:1-6, the focus shifts to the new covenant
a. A new covenant in which Jesus has already been described as:
1) The surety (guarantor) – Hebrews 7:22
2) The Mediator (one who intervenes) – Hebrews 8:6
b. In both passages, this covenant was described as a better covenant
3. Better than what? Better in what way? In Hebrews 8, we learn the answer
a. Better than the first covenant – Hebrews 8:7
b. Better because of the promises contained in it – Hebrews 8:6
Body
I. GOD’S PROMISE OF A NEW COVENANT (Hebrews 8:7-9, Hebrews 8:13)
A. THE FIRST COVENANT HAD FAULTS… (Hebrews 8:7)
1. Otherwise, there would have been no need for a second covenant
2. We have already seen concerning the first covenant that:
a. The Levitical priesthood could not bring perfection – Hebrews 7:11
b. The Law made nothing perfect, and was therefore annulled due to its weakness and unprofitableness – Hebrews 7:18-19
3. This inadequacy has special reference to the sacrifices of the first covenant
a. They could not make those who approach perfect – Hebrews 10:1-3
b. The blood of animals offered by the priests could not take away sins – Hebrews 10:4,11
B. THE PEOPLE DID NOT KEEP THE FIRST COVENANT… (Hebrews 8:8-9)
1. God found fault because they did not continue in His covenant – Jeremiah 11:7-10
2. For this reason He disregarded them, allowing them to be taken away by their enemies – Jeremiah 11:11-14
3. Even so, He did not leave them without some hope, for through the prophet Jeremiah He made a promise
C. GOD’S PLAN WAS A NEW COVENANT… (Hebrews 8:8-9)
1. Promised in Jeremiah 31:31-34
2. In which God would make a new covenant with Israel and Judah
3. A covenant different than the one made at Matthew Sinai (how, we shall see in a moment)
D. THE NEW COVENANT HAS MADE THE FIRST OBSOLETE… (Hebrews 8:13)
1. By even calling the promised covenant new, God made the first covenant obsolete
a. The old covenant actually continued on for about 500 years after Jeremiah
b. But with the promise of the new, attention would be taken away from the old covenant and directed toward the new one that was coming!
2. Its obsolescence was especially seen in the days of the Hebrew writer
a. It was becoming obsolete and growing old
1) The death of Jesus rendered the sacrifices of the first covenant unnecessary
2) Before long, the temple itself would be destroyed, and along with it, the last vestiges of the Levitical priesthood
b. Truly, it was ready to vanish away
II. GOD’S PROMISES INVOLVING THE NEW COVENANT (Hebrews 8:10-12)
A. IT WILL BE INWARD AND SPIRITUAL… (Hebrews 8:10)
1. I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts
2. The first covenant had its laws written on tablets of stone; the new covenant is one that requires God’s laws be written in our hearts
3. It is not enough to have God’s Word in our hands, on our coffee tables, etc.
a. We must plant God’s Word into our hearts – James 1:21
b. For only then can we truly be born again by the incorruptible seed, the word of God – 1 Peter 1:22-23
4. Are you living up to intent of the New Covenant, or are you little different than those under the first covenant, who had the Word, but not on their hearts?
B. IT WILL PROVIDE A CLOSER RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD… (Hebrews 8:10)
1. I will be their God, and they shall be My people
2. The actual terms of this promise is really nothing new – Exodus 6:7; Leviticus 26:12
3. But in each successive age, its promise is filled with fresh meaning; for example
a. In this age, we enjoy a closer relationship with God -2 Corinthians 6:16-18; 1 Peter 2:9-10
b. But even more so, in the age to come, which is in eternity – Revelation 21:1-7
4. Are you utilizing the blessings whereby you can have a closer relationship with God?
C. IT WILL BE WITH PEOPLE WHO KNOW THE LORD… (Hebrews 8:11)
1. None of them shall teach…saying, ‘Know the Lord’, for all shall know Me
2. The New Covenant will be with people who have already come to know the Lord
a. Unlike the first covenant, in which people entered it at birth; as they grew up, they needed to be taught about the Lord
b. In the new covenant, one must come to know the Lord before they can enter the covenant
3. So it is that one must believe in Jesus before they can enter into a covenant relationship with their Lord through baptism – Acts 8:36-38
4. Does not this feature of the New Covenant preclude the practice of infant baptism?
D. IT WILL PROVIDE TRUE FORGIVENESS FOR SIN… (Hebrews 8:12)
1. “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more”
2. Here is the ultimate basis of the blessing previously described; by virtue of the forgiveness of sins can we truly be God’s people, and He our God!
3. Thus the New Covenant provides what the first covenant could not: true forgiveness of sins! – Hebrews 10:1-4, Hebrews 10:11
Conclusion
1. Such are The Promises Of God’s New Covenant:
a. As foretold through the prophet Jeremiah
b. Now fulfilled through the coming of Jesus and His death on the cross
c. By virtue of better promises, Christ is truly the Mediator of a better covenant!
2. But there is more to be said about why the New Covenant is a better covenant
a. It also has a better sanctuary
b. It also has a better sacrifice
c. But consideration of these things will be saved for later
3. At this point it is appropriate to ask:
a. Have you truly entered into a covenant relationship with the Lord?
b. Entrance into this New Covenant is simple: They involve faith in Christ and a confession of that faith (Romans 10:9-10), along with repentance of sins and baptism into Christ – Acts 2:36-39
4. The promised blessings of the New Covenant await any and all who are willing to so respond to the gospel of Christ!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 08:01-06 Our Glorious High Priest – audio
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Text: Hebrews 8:1-6
Introduction
1. With the beginning of chapter eight, we come to the close of the first major section Hebrews
a. In which the key thought is the superiority of Christ
b. In which Jesus is shown to be superior to:
1) To the prophets – Hebrews 1:1-3
2) To angels – Hebrews 1:4-2:18
3) To Moses – Hebrews 3:1-5
4) To Aaron and his Levitical priesthood – Hebrews 5:1-10; 7:1-28
2. The next major section really begins in earnest with Hebrews 8:7
3. In Hebrews 8:1-6, we find a transition
a. In which the main point of the first section is summarized
b. In which the main points of the next section are introduced
c. Indeed, these six verses truly summarize what the author seeks to establish in the first ten chapters of this epistle!
4. It can all be summarized in these words: “We have such a High Priest…”
a. In Jesus, we have a High Priest
b. Not just any High Priest, but “such” a High Priest; a glorious High Priest!
Body
I. SEATED AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD (Hebrews 8:1)
A. MANY PASSAGES REFER TO JESUS AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND
1. David prophesied that the Messiah would sit at God’s right hand – Psalm 110:1
2. Jesus said that He would sit at the right hand of God – Mark 14:62
3. When He ascended to heaven, He sat down at God’s right hand – Mark 16:19
4. At God’s right hand, He poured forth the Holy Spirit – Acts 2:33
5. Peter preached Jesus as being exalted to be at God’s right hand as our Prince and Savior – Acts 5:30-31
6. Paul taught that Jesus is at God’s right hand, interceding for us – Romans 8:34
II. A MINISTER OF THE TRUE TABERNACLE (Hebrews 8:2-5)
A. ERECTED BY GOD, NOT MAN
1. We are now introduced to a contrast between two “tabernacles”
a. There had been the earthly sanctuary or tabernacle
1) As ordained under the first covenant (i.e., the Law) – Hebrews 9:1ff
2) It was built by man
b. But now we read of one “which the Lord erected”; a heavenly tabernacle
2. The heavenly tabernacle is none other than heaven itself! – Hebrews 9:11-12; 23-24
B. IN WHICH HE OFFERS SERVICE
1. As a High Priest, it is necessary for Him to have something to offer – Hebrews 8:3
a. Every high priest is appointed for this purpose – Hebrews 5:1
b. What Jesus has to offer is not mention here, but will be later – Hebrews 9:12
2. This service He renders in heaven, not on the earth – Hebrews 8:4
a. If He were on earth, He couldn’t be a priest!
b. For the Law required priests from the tribe of Levi, and Jesus was from Judah
3. As for priests on the earth
a. They serve only the copy and shadow of the heavenly things – Hebrews 8:5
b. For Moses had been told by God to build the earthly tabernacle according to pattern shown to him on the mountain – Exodus 25:40
III. THE MEDIATOR OF A BETTER COVENANT (Hebrews 8:6)
A. HE HAS OBTAINED A MORE EXCELLENT MINISTRY
1. In contrast with the ministry of the Levitical priests
2. Their ministry was simply a shadow and copy of His ministry – Colossians 2:16-17
B. AS MEDIATOR OF A BETTER COVENANT
1. The word “mediator”
a. The Greek is “mesites” {mes-ee’-tace}
b. It means “one who intervenes between two, either in order to make or restore peace and friendship, or form a compact, or for ratifying a covenant”
2. By His death on the cross, Jesus has become the Mediator of the new covenant – Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24
3. This new covenant is here referred to as “a better covenant”
a. Better than what? Better than the “first covenant” – Hebrews 8:7
b. Which was established through Moses
C. ESTABLISHED ON BETTER PROMISES
1. What makes the new covenant better than the old are its promises
2. Some of those promises are explained later – Hebrews 8:10-12
3. But Peter describes the promises we receive as “exceedingly great and precious promises” – 2 Peter 1:3-4
Conclusion
1. With this transition passage, then, we are introduced to things that we will be discussing as we proceed through this letter.
a. The better covenant we have in Christ, based upon its better promises
b. The better ministry of Christ as our High Priest in heaven, seated at God’s right hand
2. When such things are properly understood, we can see how Jesus is truly our glorious High Priest!
a. One who stands ready to minister in our behalf
b. He is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him – Hebrews 7:25
c. He is able to aid those who are tempted – Hebrews 2:18
a. Have you accepted Jesus as your High Priest by obeying His gospel? – Hebrews 5:9
b. For those who have not obeyed His gospel, we find this awesome warning – 1 Thessalonians 1:7-9
c. Please render obedience to the gospel today if you have not yet done so! – Acts 2:36-39
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 07:20-28 The Superiority of Christ’s Priesthood – audio
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Text: Hebrews 7:20-28
Introduction
1. In the first seven chapters of the epistle to the Hebrews, the main thought is the superiority of Christ
a. To the prophets – Hebrews 1:1-3
b. To angels – Hebrews 1:4-2:18
c. To Moses – Hebrews 3:1-5
d. To Aaron and his Levitical priesthood – Hebrews 5:1-10; 7:1-28
2. In showing the superiority of Jesus’ priesthood, the author has done so step-by-step
a. Jesus is qualified to be a priest by virtue of His calling by God and His suffering – Hebrews 5:1-8
b. He has been called to be a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek – Hebrews 5:9-10
c. The priestly order of Melchizedek is shown to be superior by comparing Abraham and Melchizedek – Hebrews 7:1-10
d. That Christ has become such a priest has several implications – Hebrews 7:11-19
1) The Levitical priesthood could not make one perfect before God
2) The Law upon which the Levitical priesthood was based has been annulled
3) Christ now provides a better hope, through which we draw near to God
3. This brings us to Hebrews 7:20-28, in which we come to the conclusion
a. Where Jesus is contrasted with those who served in the Levitical priesthood
b. Where the superiority of Christ’s priesthood is clearly demonstrated
Body
I. HIS DIVINE APPOINTMENT (Hebrews 7:20-22)
A. LEVITICAL PRIESTS WERE APPOINTED BY A COMMAND
1. Beginning with Aaron, he and his descendants served in the Levitical priesthood
2. It was a divine command that so appointed them – Exodus 28:1-4
3. While divinely commanded, it was not with an oath
B. JESUS WAS MADE A PRIEST WITH AN OATH
1. In Psalm 110:4, God swore an oath concerning the coming Messiah and His priesthood
2. We saw earlier that a promise joined with an oath really confirms the immutability (unchangeableness) of God’s counsel – Hebrews 6:17
3. Appointed by an oath and not just a command, Jesus has become a surety of a better Covenant – Hebrews 7:22
a. surety means guarantor (NEB)
b. Appointed by such an oath from God, Jesus guarantees the new covenant, that it is better (there is that key word again!)
II. HIS ETERNAL INTERCESSION (Hebrews 7:23-25)
A. LEVITICAL PRIESTS WERE LIMITED IN SERVICE BY DEATH
1. When one died, another took his place
2. Of necessity there had to be many priests
B. JESUS EVER LIVES TO MAKE INTERCESSION FOR US
1. That is because He continues forever
2. As seen earlier, Jesus came according to the power of an endless life – Hebrews 7:16
3. He therefore has an unchangeable priesthood
a. He is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him
1) He can do what the law could not do: make one perfect – Hebrews 7:19
2) That is, make one holy, and blameless – Colossians 1:21-22
b. And He ever lives to make intercession for them
1) I have always been impressed by this phrase
2) For it suggests what Jesus is doing for us now, and is most willing to do!
III. HIS PERFECT CHARACTER (Hebrews 7:26-27)
A. LEVITICAL PRIESTS WERE SINNERS
1. Some more so than others
2. Even the best of them had to offer up sacrifices
a. On a daily basis
b. For his own sins before offering sacrifices others
B. JESUS IS SEPARATE FROM SINNERS
1. We see our High Priest described in regards to:
a. His holy character: holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners
b. His preeminent position: higher than the heavens
c. Thus He does not need to offer sins for Himself
2. This makes Him a High Priest fitting (becoming, seemly) for us
IV. HIS PERMANENT SACRIFICE (Hebrews 7:27)
A. THE LEVITICAL PRIESTS SACRIFICED DAILY
1. Every day they offered sacrifices for their own sins and for those of the people
2. That they had to be continually offered implies a fundamental weakness in the efficacy of the sacrifices themselves
3. Later we learn that the problem was the inability of animal sacrifices to make one perfect and to cleanse the conscience of sins – Hebrews 10:1-4; cf. 9:9
B. JESUS OFFERED HIMSELF ONCE FOR ALL
1. This implies the efficacy of His sacrifice
2. The superiority of Jesus’ sacrifice will be explained further, later on – Hebrews Chapters 9 – 10
Conclusion
1. In Hebrews 7:28, we find a summary statement that contrasts the two priesthoods
a. The law, upon which the Levitical priesthood derives its authority, appoints men who have weaknesses; for example:
1) They are sinners themselves, and death terminates their service
2) Their sacrifices cannot truly remove sin, so had to be repeated daily and yearly
b. The oath, given after the law and the basis for Christ’s priesthood, appoints the Son who has been perfected forever; for example:
1) His humanity and the obedience learned through suffering makes Him most fitting to be our High Priest – Hebrews 2:17-18; Hebrews 4:14-16; Hebrews 5:8-9
2) His sinlessness makes the sacrifice of Himself the perfect and all-sufficient sacrifice, given once for all! – Hebrews 10:12-14
2. In chapters 9 and 10, the focus of this epistle will center on the superiority of Christ’s sacrifice; but for now, our attention has been on those things that illustrate our great High Priest:
a. His appointment by an oath from God, not just a command
b. His eternal intercession, not limited by death
c. His perfect character, untainted by sin
d. His permanent sacrifice, offered once for all when He offered Himself
3. Don’t you desire to have such a High Priest interceding in your behalf?
a. Then as Christians:
1) Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. – Hebrews 4:16
2) Let us never forget that He ever lives to make intercession for those who come to God through Him!
b. If you have never been immersed for the forgiveness of your sins:
1) Hear, Believe, Repent, Confess, Be Baptized
2) Live a faithful life
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 07:11-19 The Significance of Christ’s Priesthood – audio
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Text: Hebrews 7:11-19
Introduction
1. A major theme in the epistle to the Hebrews is the priesthood of Jesus Christ
a. His humanity prepared Him to be a merciful and faithful High Priest – Hebrews 2:17
b. He is the High Priest of our confession – Hebrews 3:1
c. He is a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens – Hebrews 4:14
d. He is a sympathetic High Priest, for He was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin – Hebrews 4:15
e. His calling as High Priest came from God Himself – Hebrews 5:5-6
2. His is a unique priesthood, however:
a. It is NOT according to the Levitical priesthood
1) He is a not priest in the order of Aaron
2) A priesthood that began with the giving of the Law through Moses at Matthew Sinai
b. His priesthood is according to the order of Melchizedek – Hebrews 5:9-10
1) Melchizedek was a priest of God Most High who met Abram – Genesis 14:14-20
2) And God swore that the Messiah would be a priest like Melchizedek – Psalm 110:4
3. In our previous study, we saw Melchizedek was superior in that:
a. He received tithes from Abraham – Hebrews 7:4-6a
b. He blessed Abraham – Hebrews 7:6b-7
c. Even Levi, in the loins of his ancestor Abraham, paid tithes to Melchizedek – Hebrews 7:9-10
d. All of this proving that the priesthood of Christ, which is after the order of Melchizedek, is superior to the Levitical priesthood
4. That Jesus would come to serve as a priest after the order the Melchizedek is not without significance and major implications:
a. Regarding the efficacy of the Levitical priesthood
b. Regarding the law of Moses itself!
Body
I. THE LEVITICAL PRIESTHOOD WAS LACKING (Hebrews 7:11)
A. IT DID NOT BRING PERFECTION
1. Otherwise there would not have been another priest to arise like Melchizedek
2. That one was foretold (Psalms 110:4) and has come proves the order of Aaron was lacking
B. THE MEANING OF PERFECTION
1. Perfection means completeness and in this context it speaks of making men acceptable to God
2. The Old Law with its priesthood could never fully reconcile man back to God
a. Animal sacrifices could not make one perfect – Hebrews 10:1
b. They could not cleanse the sinner’s conscience – Hebrews 10:2-3; 9:9
c. They could not take away sin – Hebrews 10:4; 10:11
II. THE LAW HAS BEEN ANNULLED (Hebrews 7:12-18)
A. A CHANGE IN THE PRIESTHOOD SIGNIFIES A CHANGE IN THE LAW
1. Jesus came from the tribe of Judah, not Levi – Hebrews 7:13-14; Matthew 1:1-2
2. Moses had not authorized anyone from Judah to serve as priest; indeed, God specifically forbid anyone other than a descendant of Aaron – Numbers 16:40
3. For Christ to serve as priest, then, a change must have occurred – Hebrews 7:14
4. Especially for one who serves according to the power of an endless life – Hebrews 7:15-17
a. The Levitical priests were mortal men, whose service ended at death
b. But Jesus is a priest forever, His priesthood is therefore unchangeable – Hebrews 7:24
B. WITH THE CHANGE IN PRIESTHOOD, THE LAW IS NOW ANNULLED
1. Annulled means to declare as void, to invalidate
2. The former commandment has therefore been set aside – Hebrews 7:18-19a
a. Because it was weak and unprofitable
b. In the sense of making us perfect – Hebrews 10:1
3. That the Law has been done away should not surprise us
a. God foretold this would happen – Jere 31:31
b. Jesus implied that the Law would be done away once it was fulfilled – Matthew 5:17-18
1) One jot or tittle would not pass from the law until it was fulfilled
2) If the priesthood has changed, then it must have been fulfilled and done away!
c. Paul described how Jesus abolished it in His death on the cross
1) To the Ephesians – Ephesians 2:14-16
2) To the Colossians – Colossians 2:14-16
C. THIS SIGNIFICANCE OF CHRIST’S PRIESTHOOD HAS POWERFUL IMPLICATIONS
a. With the Law annulled, it is folly to seek justification by the Law – Galatians 5:4
b. It also explains why we should not go to the Old Law to find our authority for the work, worship, and organization of the church!
III. THERE IS NOW A BETTER HOPE (Hebrews 7:19)
A. THROUGH WHICH WE CAN DRAW NEAR TO GOD
1. As seen earlier, the Levitical priesthood did not offer perfection
a. Its sacrifices could not make one perfect regarding:
1) Consciousness of sins, for sacrifices were year by year – Hebrews 10:1-3
2) Actual forgiveness of sins, for it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins – Hebrews 10:4
b. Thus the Law, because of its weakness and unprofitableness, made nothing perfect – Hebrews 7:18-19
2. But now we have in Christ a better hope
a. Here we find the keyword of this epistle: better
1) First used in comparing Jesus to angels – Hebrews 1:4
2) Used later in contrasting the new covenant and its promises with the old covenant – Hebrews 7:22; Hebrews 8:6
b. Our hope in drawing near to God is now better than before!
B. CHRIST’S SUPERIOR PRIESTHOOD IS THE BASIS OF THAT HOPE
1. Because Jesus is a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek, our hope for drawing near to God is much better:
a. As we’ve seen, Melchizedek is superior to Abraham and Levi
b. Therefore his priesthood is superior to the Levitical priesthood
c. Making Jesus’ own priesthood superior
2. More evidence of superiority will be considered shortly (Hebrews 7:20-28), but for now note again how the greatness of Jesus’ priesthood should strengthen our hope in drawing near to God:
a. Our High Priest has passed through the heavens – Hebrews 4:14
b. Our High Priest can sympathize with our weaknesses – Hebrews 4:15
c. Our High Priest makes it possible to come boldly to the throne of grace and obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need – Hebrews 4:16
3. Can we see how His service as our High Priest provides a better hope, through which we draw near to God?
Conclusion
1. More is yet to come regarding Christ’s Priesthood, but perhaps we can appreciate how
a. The Levitical priesthood does not provide what man really needs (access to God)
b. There has been a change in the Law; indeed, it has been replaced with a new covenant
c. In Jesus, our hope in drawing near to God is much better than ever before!
2. In view of such things
a. Why would the Hebrew Christians ever want to leave Jesus and return to the Law?
b. Why would people today seek to use the Law to justify religious practices, as many do when they turn to the Old Testament to establish authority for such things as a separate priesthood (clergy), burning of incense, or even instrumental music?
3. Jesus is the only way to God (John 14:6). Are you willing to come to the Father through Him? Let us be sure to serve God through Him only!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 07:01-10 The Greatness of Melchizedek
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Text: Hebrews 7:1-10
Introduction
1. Thus far in our study, we have seen the writer mention Melchizedek
a. That Jesus is a priest after the order of Melchizedek – Hebrews 5:9-10; 6:20
b. It has only been a brief mention, for the dullness of the readers required a necessary digression – Hebrews 5:11-6:20
2. But now the writer returns to his theme concerning Melchizedek, in which he:
a. Establishes the greatness of Melchizedek – Hebrews 7:1-10
b. Shows the significance of Melchizedek’s priesthood – Hebrews 7:11-19
c. Thereby illustrating the greatness of Christ’s priesthood – Hebrews 7:20-28
3. Since this subject is meat compared to the milk of the Word:
a. We want to approach it slowly and carefully
b. Allowing ourselves to slowly digest what is said in this seventh chapter of Hebrews
Body
I. THE HISTORY OF MELCHIZEDEK (Hebrews 7:1-3)
A. THE HISTORICAL RECORD AS FOUND IN GENESIS 14
1. We first read of The Battle Of The Kings – Genesis 14:1-11
2. In which Lot is captured, and then rescued by Abram (Abraham) – Genesis 14:12-17
3. Upon his return, Abram is met by Melchizedek – Genesis 14:18
a. Who is king of Salem
b. Who is also the priest of God Most High
4. In this meeting, two things happen:
a. Melchizedek blesses Abram (Abraham) – Genesis 14:19
b. Abram pays tithes to Melchizedek – Genesis 14:20b
B. IN REFERRING TO MELCHIZEDEK, THE AUTHOR OF HEBREWS
1. Summarizes the events in Hebrews 7:1-2
a. How Melchizedek met Abraham and blessed him
b. How Abraham gave a tenth part of all to Melchizedek
2. Explains the meaning of his name and title – Hebrews 7:2
a. The name Melchizedek means king of righteousness
b. The title king of Salem means king of peace
3. Makes some intriguing statements about Melchizedek
a. without father, without mother, without genealogy
b. having neither beginning of days nor end of life
c. made like the Son of God
d. remains a priest continually
C. WHO IS THIS MELCHIZEDEK?
1. He was simply a man, but because he appears suddenly in Scripture as a priest:
a. With no mention of parentage or genealogy
b. With no mention of his birth or death
c. With only a mention of him as a priest of God Most High
d. That he is a type of Christ, and what His priesthood would be like
II. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF MELCHIZEDEK (Hebrews 7:4-10)
A. MELCHIZEDEK RECEIVED TITHES FROM ABRAHAM (Hebrews 7:4-6a)
1. Abraham paid a tenth to Melchizedek
2. Just as the nation of Israel would later pay a tenth to the sons of Levi
3. Thus Abraham, great as he was, showed his deference to Melchizedek
B. MELCHIZEDEK BLESSED ABRAHAM (6b-7)
1. Melchizedek blessed him who had the promises (Abraham)
2. There is no dispute that the lesser is blessed by the better
3. Thus Melchizedek is clearly better than Abraham
C. MELCHIZEDEK’S SERVICE WAS NOT AFFECTED BY DEATH (Hebrews 7:8)
1. In the priesthood under the Jewish system tithes were received by mortal men (whose service ended at death)
2. But it has been witnessed that Melchizedek lives (remains a priest continually Hebrews 7:3)
3. How he lives and remains a priest continually, the Bible does not say
4. But in this way Melchizedek is greater than the Levitical priests
D. EVEN LEVI PAID TITHES TO MELCHIZEDEK (Hebrews 7:9-10)
1. Levi was in the loins of his father Abraham when Melchizedek met him
2. Thus Levi, who receives tithes, paid tithes through Abraham, so to speak
3. Again illustrating the greatness of Melchizedek, as one greater than Levi!
Conclusion
1. There is a lot more I wish I knew about Melchizedek
a. I would love to know where he came from, and how he came to be priest of God Most High
b. And how does he remain a priest continually?
2. But what I do know is this
a. Jesus is a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek, as God swore He would be in Psalm 110:4
b. And that Melchizedek is clearly presented to be greater than Abraham and Levi!
3. Understanding the greatness of Melchizedek helps prepare us to appreciate the superiority of Christ’s priesthood over the Levitical priesthood, which we will consider later
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 06:09-20 Are We Spiritually Secure? – audio
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Text: Hebrews 6:9-20
Introduction
1. We have seen the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews express his concern
a. He makes mention of their spiritual immaturity – Hebrews 5:11-14
b. He warns them of the peril of not progressing – Hebrews 6:1-8
2. While he writes in this way, he has great confidence for their ultimate salvation
a. Though others had indeed fallen to the point where it was impossible to renew them again to repentance – Hebrews 6:4-6
b. Yet he could say of them, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things which accompany salvation… – Hebrews 6:9
3. What was it that gave the author confidence regarding his readers’ salvation?
a. What was the basis for their spiritual security, when the danger of apostasy had just been described in vivid detail?
b. What can we learn from this passage that may help us understand the basis for our own spiritual security?
Body
I. GOD DOES NOT FORGET OUR WORK AND LABOR OF LOVE (Hebrews 6:9-10)
A. GOD IS A JUST GOD, ONE WHO DOES NOT FORGET
1. He is very much aware of our service in the PAST (in that you have ministered)
a. Service that has been shown toward Him (toward His name) – Matthew 24:40
b. Service that has been shown toward His servants (to the saints)
2. He is very much aware of our service in the PRESENT (and do minister)
B. KNOWING THIS CAN BE A SOURCE OF GREAT COMFORT
1. In contrast to every sin which is blotted out and remembered no more (Hebrews 8:12), service rendered in love to God is not forgotten!
2. We need not fear that God will not see or remember our efforts to be pleasing to Him
a. God seeks to show Himself strong to those who are loyal to Him 2 Chronicles 16:9
b. If He took note of Cornelius’ desire to please Him in his unsaved state, how much more will He take note of His children’s effort to serve Him! – Acts 10:1-6
3. Thus when we stumble, but repent of our sins, our labor of love is remembered and our sins forgotten!
II. DILIGENCE, FAITH, AND PATIENCE ON OUR PART (Hebrews 6:11-12)
A. NOTE THE AUTHOR’S DESIRE
1. That his readers’ show the same diligence (earnestness) they had shown in the past
a. Diligent regarding their assurance of hope
b. Diligent until the end – Hebrews 3:6-14
2. That they do not become sluggish
a. The word sluggish is from a Greek word meaning dull
b. The same word as used in dull of hearing – Hebrews 5:11
c. They were already dull of hearing; his desire is they not become dull in conduct!
3. That they have faith and patience
a. Imitating those who through faith and patience inherit the promises
b. Such as Abraham, who is given as an example later – Hebrews 6:15
B. THESE QUALITIES ARE NECESSARY FOR SPIRITUAL SECURITY
1. Peter describes the need for diligence to make your calling and election sure – 2 Peter 1:5, 2 Peter 1:10-11
2. Jesus called upon His disciples to remain faithful if they wished to receive the crown of life – Revelation 2:10
3. Paul wrote that eternal life is for those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor and immortality – Romans 2:7
III. GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES (Hebrews 6:13-20)
A. THE EXAMPLE OF GOD’S PROMISE TO ABRAHAM
1. God made a promise to Abraham – Hebrews 6:13-15
a. In which He swore by Himself (because He could not swear by anyone higher)
b. A promise which Abraham obtained after patient endurance – v.15 with v.12
2. God confirmed His promise with an oath – Hebrews 6:16-18a
a. For men, an oath confirms what they say, ending all dispute
b. To assure us of the unchangeableness of His promise, God also swore an oath
c. This provided a double assurance that He would keep His promise:
1) One, because it impossible for God to lie anyway – Titus 1:2
2) Two, because of the oath by which He confirmed it — How does this relate to our spiritual security?
B. GOD’S FAITHFULNESS IS OUR ASSURANCE!
1. It gives us strong consolation – Hebrews 6:18b-19b
a. We who are seeking refuge
b. We who need an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast
2. This is especially true regarding our hope, which is Jesus! – Hebrews 6:19b-20
a. I understand Jesus to be the hope in this passage
1) For He is our hope, to whom we can flee as a refuge – 1 Timothy 1:1
2) As such, He is our anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast
b. As a forerunner, He has entered the Presence behind the veil (i.e., heaven)
c. He has become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek
1) Even as God swore He would do – Psalm 110:4
2) God not only promised, but He swore an oath, just like He did for Abraham
d. So He has kept His promise, providing us a superior High Priest!
3. Upon such an example of God’s faithfulness, we can have an assurance of our salvation as long as we continue to lay hold of the hope (Jesus) set before us
Conclusion
1. With a finely crafted argument, the author has returned his readers back to his original subject, which is Jesus as a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek
a. Our spiritual security is first based upon the character of God
1) Who is not unjust to forget our work and labor of love
2) Who keeps His promises
b. God has promised and swore with an oath concerning the priesthood of the Messiah
c. This priesthood Jesus now has in heaven, and as such is the basis of our hope
d. For which reason we should seek to learn what we can about the priesthood of Jesus
2. Yet as wonderful are the character and promises of God, we are not to take them for granted
a. We must be careful not to become sluggish
b. We must be careful to be diligent, imitating the faith and patience of those like Abraham who obtained God’s promise for them
c. Together with God’s character and promises, this is the basis for spiritual security
3. Have you fled to Jesus for refuge? Is He your hope, your anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast? Is He your High Priest? If so, then let these words sink deep into your heart:
And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (Hebrews 6:11-12)
4. If you have not yet fled to Jesus for refuge, then please consider His tender invitation:
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 06:01-08 The Peril of Not Progressing
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Text: Hebrews 6:1-8
Introduction
1. The normal Christian life is to be one of spiritual growth and progression
a. Starting as babes in Christ, we feed on the milk of the Word
b. As our spiritual senses are exercised to discern good and evil, we are then able to progress to solid food (meat)
c. In this way we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ – 2 Peter 3:18
2. But as we saw in last week’s lesson, not all grow as they should, and some are:
a. Dull of hearing
b. Unable to teach others
c. Getting a diet of milk only
d. Unable to discern good and evil – Hebrews 5:11-14
3. But if we don’t grow spiritually as we should, so what?
a. Is spiritual growth really that essential?
b. Is there a danger involved in not progressing spiritually?
Body
I. THE DUTY OF PRESSING ON TO PERFECTION (Hebrews 6:1-3)
A. THE PERFECTION WE SEEK IS TWO-FOLD
1. Maturity in religious knowledge
a. We need the Word of God, that we may grow thereby – 1 Peter 2:2
b. By receiving the Word with humility into our hearts, it can save our souls – James 1:21
2. Full development of spiritual life
a. To faith and knowledge, we must add the qualities of godly character – 2 Peter 1:5-8
b. As we develop this godly character, we truly come to know the Lord
B. BEFORE THIS WE NEED THE ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES OF CHRIST
1. Our text reveals that this involves teaching on such subjects as:
a. Repentance from dead works
1) Turning from works which produce spiritual death, not life
2) Paul describes such works in Ephesians 2:1-3
3) Sorrow for sin and a purpose to turn from it
b. Faith toward God
1) That trusting conviction in God and His promises that is essential to pleasing Him – Hebrews 11:6
2) This faith is produced by the Word of God itself – Romans 10:17; John 20:30-31
c. The doctrine of baptisms
1) In the first century A.D., there were many ritual washings practiced by various sects of the pagans and Jews
a) Such practices needed to be carefully distinguished from Christian baptism
b) Just as John’s baptism was distinguished from baptism into Christ – Acts 19:1-5
2) Today, it is important to understand the different kinds of baptisms practiced
a) Nearly all Christian religions practice some sort of baptism
b) But most do not baptize for the reasons stated in the Scriptures – Acts 2:38; 22:16; Romans 6:1-6
d. Laying on of hands
1) In the early church, this was done for various reasons:
a) By Jesus, and others with the gift of healing, to heal the sick – Luke 4:40; Mark 16:18; Acts 28:8
b) By Jesus, to bestow special blessings upon others – Mark 10:16
c) By the apostles, to impart the Spirit in a miraculous measure – Acts 8:14-25; 19:1-7
d) By church leaders, to appoint different ones for service – Acts 6:1-6; Acts 13:1-3
2) Note that the laying on of hands was often accompanied with prayer; perhaps the imposition of hands being the outward symbol of the prayer
e. Resurrection of the dead
1) A central theme of preaching was the resurrection of Jesus – Acts 2:31-32; Acts 10:40
2) They also preached in Jesus our own resurrection, which is our precious hope! Acts 4:2; 24:15; 1 Corinthians 15:20-23
f. Eternal judgment
1) Another theme of apostolic preaching – Acts 17:30-31; Acts 24:24-25
2) Also stressed in their epistles – Romans 2:16; Romans 14:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:10
2. Understanding these concepts serves as the beginning of spiritual growth!
a. Sadly, some who have been Christians for years still need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God;
b. Such people are still babes who need milk and not solid food. – Hebrews 5:12
C. BUT WE ALSO NEED TO GO ON TO PERFECTION
1. Once we have laid the foundation, we need to build on it
2. With an understanding of the doctrines previously described, we are ready to receive more difficult knowledge
a. Such as the high priesthood of Christ – Hebrews 5:9-11
b. We might also add the work of Christ as our King of kings and Lord of lords, as depicted in the book of Revelation
3. By comprehending the meatier parts of the Word of God, we are more likely to remain steadfast in our faith
4. We need the attitude of striving toward perfection as described by Paul – Philippians 3:7-15
II. THE DANGER OF IRREVERSIBLE APOSTASY (Hebrews 6:4-8)
A. NOTE THE PRIVILEGES SOME APOSTATES HAD ENJOYED
1. They were once enlightened
a. This likely refers to their conversion – Hebrews 10:32
b. By the second century, the word enlightenment was used as a synonym for baptism (Justin, Apology, 1.61.65)
2. They have tasted of the heavenly gift
a. The word taste suggests a deep personal experience – 1 Peter 2:3
b. Their tasting the heavenly gift refers back to the past experience of salvation
1) In which they experienced the forgiveness of sins
2) In which they began to receive the spiritual blessings of being in Christ
3. They have become partakers of the Holy Spirit
a. This also refers back to their conversion – Acts 2:38
b. The word partakers (metochous) is significant
1) Christians are partakers (metochoi) of the heavenly calling – Hebrews 3:1
2) They are partakers (metochoi) of Christ – Hebrews 3:14
3) So they are also partakers in the Holy Spirit!
4. They have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come
a. Again the word tasted suggests personal experience
b. They had experienced the good things the word of God promises
c. They had experienced the powers of the age to come
1) The age to come is the Messianic age, ushered in with the first coming of Christ, and consummated with His second coming
2) The powers of the age they had experienced:
a) Certainly included the power experienced by all Christians – Ephesians 1:19; Ephesians 3:20; Ephesians 6:10
b) But perhaps even signs and wonders, and gifts of the Holy Spirit – Hebrews 2:4
5. Can these be anyone other than true Christians who had once believed in Jesus?
B. NOTE HOW FAR THEY HAD FALLEN
1. It was now impossible…to renew them again to repentance – Hebrews 6:4-6
a. It is apparent that Christians can fall away
1) Paul warned that one can become estranged from Christ and fall from grace – Galatians 5:4
2) Peter described those once saved – 2 Peter 2:20-22
b. Here we learn that some can fall away to the point they are beyond rescue!
1) We cannot say when a person reaches that point
2) But there is a point where renewal becomes impossible!
2. In such a state they crucifying again for themselves the Son of God and putting Him to an open shame.
a. This is not a Christian who sins out of weakness or ignorance
b. This is one who knowingly and openly rejects Christ publicly!
1) It is one whose heart has been so hardened by sin that in unbelief they have departed from the living God – Hebrews 3:12-14
2) It is one who despises Jesus, His blood, and the Spirit of grace – Hebrews 10:29
c. It is one thing to yield to sin contrary to the new life in Christ, it is another thing to abandon that new life altogether!
d. But such can happen if we are not careful to go on to perfection!
C. NOTE THE FEARFUL DESTRUCTION RESERVED FOR THEM
1. Like unproductive branches, they are rejected…whose end is to be burned
a. Having received blessings from God, they should have produced good fruit
b. But instead they are like thorns and briars, taking nourishment but not producing useful fruit in return – Hebrews 6:7-8
2. With a similar illustration, Jesus warned His disciples! – John 15:1-8
a. By abiding in Him, we are able to bear fruit to God’s glory
b. But if we do not bear fruit, we will be cut off and burned!
Conclusion
1. From this stern passage, we learn some sobering truths
a. Receiving wonderful blessings from God does not preclude the impossibility of apostasy
b. For those who fall away to the point of casting off their faith, destruction awaits!
2. In view of such truths
a. The peril of not progressing is very real!
b. We need to heed the exhortation: let us go on to perfection
1) We cannot be content with spiritual immaturity
2) We must be diligent to press on in our spiritual growth
3. Does this mean we must live our Christian lives with insecurity regarding our salvation? No
4. As we will see in our next lesson, there are things upon which we can base our hope and trust for the future. But the warnings in this passage should be heeded!
5. Brethren, what are you doing with the blessings you have received in Christ…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 05:11-14 Marks of Spiritual Immaturity
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Text: Hebrews 5:11-14
Introduction
1. Just because one has been a Christian for many years, does not mean they are mature
a. They may be like the person who had been teacher for twenty-five years
1) When she heard about a job that would mean a promotion, she applied for the position. However, someone who had been teaching for only one year was hired instead.
2) She went to the principal and asked why. The principal responded, I’m sorry, but you haven’t had 25 years of experience as you claim; you’ve had only one year’s experience 25 times.
3) During that whole time the teacher had not improved!
b. So it may be with many Christians; they have not grown, but simply repeated their first year of spiritual life many times!
2. The lack of spiritual growth (i.e., spiritual immaturity) is a dangerous thing
a. For there may be blessings to be enjoyed in Christ that only the mature Christian can truly understand and appropriate
b. If one remains spiritually immature, they do not come to fully appreciate their standing and blessings that they have in Christ!
c. Deprived of a greater understanding, they are more susceptible to the wiles of the devil
3. The author of the book of Hebrews found himself faced with this problem
a. He had much to say about Christ as our High Priest
b. But the spiritual immaturity of his readers made it difficult and so he thought it necessary to temporarily digress – Hebrews 5:11-14
4. How about you?
a. Are you growing as a Christian?
b. Or are you repeating your first year over and over again, remaining spiritual immature?
c. Do you know how to determine whether you are spiritually mature?
5. In our text we find some of the identifying marks of spiritual immaturity, indicators that reveal when one is in need of growing up spiritually
Body
I. DULLNESS OF HEARING (Hebrews 5:11)
A. THE HEBREWS HAD BECOME DULL OF HEARING
1. This prevented the writer from continuing with his argument at the moment
2. While the material he had to share was hard to explain
a. It wasn’t so much the difficulty of the material itself
b. As it was their own inability to receive it!
3. That they had become dull of hearing may imply a regression
a. At one time they were not dull of hearing
b. They may have been like the Bereans at one time, who received the word with all readiness – Acts 17:11
c. Indeed, most converts are truly sharp in their listening at the first
1) They are excited about what they are learning
2) They listen with great readiness, and spiritual growth occurs
d. But it is not uncommon for apathy to set in, making one dull of hearing
e. When one becomes dull of hearing, they begin to regress to a state of spiritual immaturity
B. ARE YOU DULL OF HEARING?
1. Ask yourself these questions:
a. Is the Bible dull?
b. Are the Bible classes dull?
c. Are the sermons dull?
d. Is anything that is spiritual in nature (like singing, praying) dull?
2. If so, then you have become dull of hearing!
a. If you listen at all, it will be to those who are willing to tickle your ears
b. And you will be susceptible to being mislead – 2 Timothy 4:3-4
II. THE INABILITY TO TEACH OTHERS (Hebrews 5:12a)
A. THE HEBREWS SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO TEACH OTHERS
1. They had been Christians for some time (by this time you ought to be teachers)
a. They had time to learn, to grow
b. A natural response to growth is to bear fruit
c. One way we bear fruit is by teaching others
2. In one way or another, they should have been able to teach others
a. Perhaps not in a formal sense, for not all are gifted in that way – 1 Corinthians 12:29; Ephesians 4:11; James 3:1
b. But all can share the good news and hope they have with others – Acts 8:4; 1 Peter 3:15
3. Their need for someone to teach them again the first principles demonstrated their spiritual immaturity
B. ARE YOU ABLE TO TEACH OTHERS?
1. Assuming that sufficient time has passed, are you teaching others?
a. Either formally as a teacher instructing others in the faith?
b. Or informally by sharing your faith with others?
2. Do you find yourself saying I don’t know what to say?
a. Then it sounds like you have forgotten the first principles
b. And you need to have someone teach you again!
3. If one has not progressed to the point where they are somehow teaching others about Christ, then they are still spiritually immature!
III. A DIET OF MILK (Hebrews 5:12-13)
A. NOW, A DIET OF MILK IS OFTEN NECESSARY
1. Certainly it is needed for those who are babes in Christ – 1 Corinthians 3:1-2
2. Also for those who have regressed (as with the Hebrews) – Hebrews 5:12b
3. Such a diet includes what is described as the first principles of the oracles of God (later called the elementary principles of Christ in Hebrews 6:1-3)
B. BUT OUR DIET MUST ONE DAY INCLUDE SOLID FOOD
1. Just as a physical baby must graduate to solid foods in order to grow to maturity
2. So a babe in Christ cannot mature unless the diet goes beyond the first principles
3. One commentator offers an interesting explanation as to what may be the difference
a. milk refers to what Jesus did on earth: His birth, life, teaching, miracles, death, burial and resurrection
b. solid food refers to what Jesus is now doing in heaven: His priesthood
4. If our diet remains milk only
a. Then we will be unskilled (lit., without experience) in the word of God
b. We will remain babes in Christ – Hebrews 5:13
C. WHAT HAS YOUR DIET BEEN LATELY?
1. Has it been limited to milk?
a. Has it even included milk?
b. Some Christians may not even be getting the milk of the Word!
2. Are you getting any meat?
a. Studying portions of God’s Word that challenges your understanding?
b. Stay with us in this study in Hebrews, and you will be sure to get some!
3. A milk only diet leaves one immature, and by default one who is unskilled in the word of righteousness
IV. THE INABILITY TO DISCERN (Hebrews 5:14)
A. NORMAL SPIRITUAL GROWTH EXERCISES THE SENSES
1. Even the milk of the word is designed to train one’s faculties
a. By exposing us to the difference between right and wrong
b. In this way our spiritual sense is exercised
2. Then by reason of use we learn to discern both good and evil
a. With clear examples set before us in the Scriptures, we learn right from wrong
b. We thereby develop the ability to distinguish between good and evil
c. We become able to apply general principles to specific situations
1) Specific condemnation of a practice is not always necessary
2) We can discern when something is more like the good, or more like the bad
B. SPIRITUAL IMMATURITY LACKS THIS ABILITY TO DISCERN
1. A babe in Christ often has difficulty discerning the difference between:
a. Good teaching (truth) and bad teaching (error)
b. Good conduct (righteousness) and bad conduct (wickedness)
2. Inability to discern leaves them open to being
a. tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine – Ephesians 4:14
b. Like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind…a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways – James 1:6-8
C. DO YOU HAVE THE ABILITY TO DISCERN?
1. Can you apply general principles to a specific situation, or do you require a clear Thou shalt not to determine if something is wrong?
2. Are you able to recognize when a doctrine is true to God’s word?
3. Or are you dependent upon someone else
a. To spoon feed you?
b. To take you by the hand and lead you?
c. To tell you what is right and wrong, what is truth and what is error
Conclusion
1. There are certainly other indicators of spiritual immaturity
a. Behaving in a carnal way
b. Possessing strife, envy, and jealousy – 1 Corinthians 3:1-4
2. But in our present text we have focused our attention on the four presented here
a. Dullness of hearing
b. The inability to teach others
c. A diet of milk
d. The inability to discern
e. All of these should serve as warning signs that something is amiss in our lives as Christians, for they are truly marks of spiritual Immaturity
3. In our next lesson, we shall see why it is so important to grow spiritually. As Peter warned, growth is the antidote to falling away:
You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge
of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. – 2 Peter 3:18
4. Are you growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 01:04-14 Jesus’ Superiority to Angels
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Text: Hebrews 1:4-14
Introduction
1. The subject of angels has certainly become a popular one lately
a. Bookstores are filled with books dealing with angels
b. Popular TV shows and movies depict angels working in our lives (Highway To Heaven, Touched By An Angel, The Preacher’s Wife, It’s A Wonderful Life)
2. Angels were also an important part of the Jewish religion
a. Angels assisted with the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai – Deuteronomy 33:2; Psalm 68:17; Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19
b. They appear throughout the history of Israel, coming to Abraham, Daniel, and many others
3. Since the purpose of The Epistle To The Hebrews is to show the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant to the Law of Moses…
a. It is necessary that the writer has something to say about angels
b. So it is that we find the comparison of the Son to prophets followed now by a comparison to angels – Hebrews 1:4-14
4. The premise is clearly stated that the Son (Jesus) is much better than the angels – Hebrews 1:4
a. The reason in a nutshell is that He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they
b. That name is Son, a title that only Jesus can properly wear
1) Angels may be called sons of God collectively – Job 1:6
2) But no angel can be called this name individually!
Body
I. JESUS IS THE SON
A. TWO PROPHECIES REFER TO THE MESSIAH AS SON
1. The first is Psalm 2:7
a. A psalm depicting the enthronement of the Messiah (the Lord’s Anointed)
b. In which Jehovah calls the Messiah My Son
c. The begetting has reference to the resurrection of Jesus – Acts 13:33; Romans 1:4
2. The second is 2 Samuel 7:14
a. This passage had immediate application to Solomon, David’s son
b. But as the Messiah he would receive the throne of David
1) It’s ultimate application would be to the Messiah
2) Jesus, the son of David – Matthew 1:1; Mark 10:47; John 7:42
B. BUT NO ANGEL IS EVER CALLED MY SON
1. Collectively they were called sons of God, but never individually!
2. This not only demonstrates Jesus’ superiority to angels
a. It proves that Jesus Himself was NOT an angel!
b. Contrary to what some (such as JW’s) believe
II. JESUS IS THE FIRSTBORN WHO RECEIVES WORSHIP
A. JESUS IS DESCRIBED AS THE FIRSTBORN
1. The term firstborn does not always mean born first
a. It is also used in the Scriptures as a metaphor to describe one who occupies the rank and privilege of being firstborn (without literally being firstborn)
b. Used by God in this way to refer to the nation of Israel – Exodus 4:22
c. Used by God in this way to refer to David, youngest of eight – Psalm 89:20-27
2. It is used of Jesus in this way to stress His preeminence over creation
a. As Paul explains in Colossians 1:15-18
b. By virtue of being the Creator, He maintains the rank and privilege of firstborn!
B. WHEN THE FIRSTBORN CAME INTO THE WORLD, THE ANGELS WERE TO WORSHIP HIM
1. The angels of God were to worship Him. Note well: No created being is or was ever worthy of worship!
a. The angels themselves refused to be worshipped – Revelation 22:8-9
b. The apostle Peter refused to accept worship – Acts 10:25-26
2. Yet Jesus received worship!
a. From the wise men – Matthew 2:11
b. From the leper – Matthew 8:2
c. From the ruler – Matthew 9:18
d. From His disciples in the boat – Matthew 14:33
e. From the Canaanite woman – Matthew 15:25
f. From the man born blind – John 9:38
g. From the women and other disciples following His resurrection – Matthew 28:9,17
h. From the disciples following His ascension – Luke 24:52
III. JESUS IS GOD ENTHRONED AND ANOINTED
A. ANGELS ARE SIMPLY FOR THE SERVICE OF GOD
1. They are created spirits to serve God (called ministering spirits in He 1:14)
2. Their service can be as powerful yet transient as wind or flames of fire, if need be
B. BUT THE SON IS GOD HIMSELF, ENTHRONED AND ANOINTED!
1. The author is quoting from another Messianic psalm – Psalm 45:6-7
2. Notice that the Son is called God! – Hebrews 1:8
a. The Hebrew writer clearly proclaims the deity of Jesus! – Hebrews 1:3a
b. Yet in the next verse we read where it says God, Your God has
1) Here we find a distinction of personalities within the Godhead
2) Which we learn through later revelation involves the Father and the Son (and the Holy Spirit)
3. The Son, Who is God, has been enthroned, and reigns over an everlasting kingdom with righteousness
a. A kingdom of which Daniel said shall never be destroyed – Daniel 2:44
b. A kingdom of which Gabriel (an angel) told Mary: there will be no end – Luke 1:33
c. Both Paul and John wrote of this kingdom – Colossians 1:13; Revelation 1:9
4. This Son, Who is God and King, has been anointed – Hebrews 1:9
a. Of course, the word Messiah means anointed one
b. In this passage, the emphasis is on how Jesus has been anointed with gladness more than Your companions
1) Who are these companions?
2) In view of He 2:11; 3:1, it is likely the followers of Jesus, His brethren!
5. As God, King, and Messiah, Jesus is certainly greater than angels!
IV. JESUS IS THE LORD WHO IS THE ETERNAL CREATOR
A. JESUS IS YAHWEH (JEHOVAH)!
1. Now the Hebrew writer is quoting from Psalm 102:25-27
a. A psalm which addresses God using His covenant name Yahweh (or Jehovah)
b. This is the name that God used to identify Himself to Moses – Exodus 3:13-14
2. But the Hebrew writer by inspiration knew this psalm equally applied to Jesus!
a. Such would be blasphemy, unless Jesus is truly Deity!
b. So while the Son is distinct from the Father (Hebrews 1:9), He and the Father are also one
3. In this chapter, then, we find evidence relating to the nature of the Godhead
a. There is one God, but three distinct personalities within the Godhead
b. As Jehovah, Jesus is not a god, or any sort of created being (contra JWs, Mormons)
c. As the Son who is distinct from the Father, the Son is not the same in personality as the Father (contra the Oneness Pentecostals)
d. Though not a biblical term, the word trinity does help to convey the Biblical evidence as to the nature of the Godhead!
B. JESUS IS THE ETERNAL CREATOR!
1. In the beginning it was He who created the earth and the heavens – Hebrews 1:10
a. As the author had already stated in Hebrews 1:2c
b. As both John and Paul professed – John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17
2. He is also eternal, therefore unchangeable – Hebrews 1:11-12
a. The heavens and the earth will perish, grow old and be changed – 2 Peter 3:10-12
b. But Jesus will remain, be the same, and not fail – Hebrews 13:8
V. JESUS IS THE SOVEREIGN
A. NO ANGEL HAS BEEN INVITED TO SIT AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND
1. The psalm quoted now is Psalm 110:1
a. This psalm is quoted or alluded to more than any other psalm in the NT
b. It refers to the Messianic reign of Christ that began when Jesus sat down at the right hand of God – Hebrews 1:3; Acts 2:34-36; 1 Peter 3:22
2. That no angel has been asked to sit at God’s right hand
a. Once again proves that Jesus was not an angel (contra JWs)
b. Only Jesus, as the Son of God, has been so invited, and is truly the Sovereign!
B. ANGELS ARE BUT MINISTERING SPIRITS
1. While Jesus sits enthroned in heaven, angels are sent forth to minister (serve)
2. They minister for those who will inherit salvation
a. They have certainly ministered in the past – Luke 1:11-38
b. They will certainly minister at the time of Christ’s return – Matthew 13:36-43
c. But to what extent they minister in the present, the Scriptures reveal little (Matthew 18:10), and we should be careful to refrain from vain speculation
Conclusion
1. In a very forceful manner, the writer to the Hebrews has shown Jesus’ superiority to angels:
a. Jesus is the Son (not angels)
b. Jesus is the Firstborn who receives worship (not angels)
c. Jesus is God enthroned and anointed (not angels)
d. Jesus is the LORD (Yahweh) who is the eternal creator (not angels, who are only created beings)
e. Jesus is the Sovereign, reigning at God’s right hand (angels are but ministering spirits)
2. While angels certainly have a special place in God’s plan for redeeming man
a. They are not to become the object of worship or adoration – Colossians 2:18-19
b. Only Jesus is worthy of such worship and adoration! As innumerable angels proclaimed with a loud voice: Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing! – Revelation 5:11-12
3. Let Jesus, and not angels, be the focus of your interest and adoration!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 01:01-03 God’s Perfect Spokesman
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Text: Hebrews 1:1-3
Introduction:
1. The Epistle to the Hebrews is unique in its beginning
a. There is no mention of the author’s name, nor the recipients
b. Rather, it starts like an essay – Hebrews 1:1-3
2. We also notice the purpose of the epistle is twofold:
a. To encourage Jewish Christians to remain steadfast in their faith
b. Accomplished by showing the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant
3. That superiority is demonstrated through a number of contrasts
a. The very first contrast begins in these first three verses
b. In which Jesus is contrasted with the prophets of the Old Testament
Body
I. GOD’S SPOKESMEN IN TIME PAST
A. THE EXPRESSION IN TIME PAST
1. Refers to the period of time prior to the coming of Jesus
2. That period of time described in the Old Testament (Genesis-Malachi)
B. GOD SPOKE TO THE FATHERS BY THE PROPHETS
1. The fathers would be the ancestors of the Israelites
2. The prophets would include great men like Samuel, Elijah, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel
a. The Hebrew word for prophet means one who boils over
b. It refers to one who is inspired by God to speak for Him – 2 Peter 1:21
3. At times, the prophets themselves were unsure of what they spoke – 1 Peter 1:10-12
C. GOD SPOKE AT VARIOUS TIMES AND IN DIFFERENT WAYS
1. His revelation did not come all at once, but progressively at different times
2. His methods varied as well, using visions, dreams, symbols, etc.
D. So God has clearly revealed Himself as One who speaks; that is, He communicates His will to mankind!
II. GOD’S SPOKESMAN IN THESE LAST DAYS (Hebrews 1:2-3)
A. THE EXPRESSION IN THESE LAST DAYS
1. The Old Testament often spoke of the last days – Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1
2. As such it often special reference to the age of the Messiah
a. The apostles spoke of their time as the time of this fulfillment – Acts 2:16-17
b. Thus it denotes the final phase of history, brought on by the first coming of Christ, continuing until His second coming and the consummation of all things – Hebrews 9:26
B. GOD HAS SPOKEN TO US BY HIS SON
1. God has spoken once again, but note the contrast!
2. In time past it was through prophets; but in these last days it is by His Son!
a. God has sent His own Son to speak for Him!
b. As wonderful as the prophets were, how can they compare to God’s own Son?
3. There is no contrast, especially as we read on and notice
C. THE EXCELLENCE OF GOD’S PERFECT SPOKESMAN
1. Jesus is the appointed heir of all things!
a. The author may have had Psalm 2:8 in mind, for in verse 5 he quotes from Psalm 2:7
b. As the beloved Son, it is only natural that He would be the appointed heir
c. What does all things include?
1) All that the Father has! – John 16:15
2) The authority to raise and judge the dead – John 5:26-29
3) The authority to rule in heaven and on earth – Matthew 28:18
4) This authority Christ has even now! – Acts 2:36; 10:36; Ephesians 1:20-22; 1 Peter 3:22; Revelation 1:5
2. Jesus is through whom He (God) also made the worlds!
a. Not only the Heir, but also the Creator!
b. For it was through the Son that God created the universe – cf. John 1:3; Colossians 1:16
1) All things were created by (or through) Him (He is the Creator)
2) All things were created for Him (He is the rightful Heir)
3. Jesus is the brightness of His (God’s) glory!
a. In Jesus we see the very radiance of the glory of God!
b. As John wrote, we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father… – John 1:14
c. When we behold Jesus, we see an extension of the glory of God!
4. Jesus is the express image of His (God’s) person!
a. He is the exact representation of God’s being and character! – Colossians 2:9
b. Therefore Jesus could say:
1) To Thomas: If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him. – John 14:7
2) To Philip: He who has seen Me has seen the Father; – John 14:9
5. Jesus is upholding all things by the word of His power!
a. Not only the Creator, but also the Sustainer of the universe – Colossians 1:17
1) By His word the universe holds together!
2) All He has to do is say the word, and the universe is no more!
b. Note well:
1) This illustrates the power of His Word
2) Shall we not listen when He speaks? – Luke 6:46
6. Jesus has also by Himself purged our sins!
a. A clear reference to His death on the cross for our sins
b. This speaks to His role as our Redeemer, a theme that will be prominent later in this epistle – Hebrews 2:17; 9:26,28
7. Jesus has also sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high!
a. This Jesus did when He ascended to heaven – Ephesians 1:20; 1 Peter 3:22
b. Sitting at the right hand of God is a place of honor, but for Jesus it is also a place from which He reigns!
1) As indicated in Ephesians 1:21-22; 1 Peter 3:22
2) It is true that He is waiting for the His enemies to be made His footstool (Hebrews 10:12-13), but He is reigning until that time! – 1 Corinthians 15:25-26
3) As stated in Psalm 110:1-2, from which the author to the Hebrews quotes, the Messiah was to rule in the midst of Your enemies
c. Thus Jesus is truly the ruler over the kings of earth – Revelation 1:5; 17:14
Conclusion
1. The sentence does not end with verse three
a. It continues on into verse four, with a declaration of Jesus’ superiority over angels
b. But that verse and the rest of the chapter we shall save for the next study
2. But what have we seen in this lesson?
a. God is clearly a God who speaks, He makes His Will known to mankind!
b. And now He speaks through His Son, Who is:
1) The appointed Heir of all things!
2) The Creator!
3) The brightness of God’s glory, the express image of His person!
4) Our Sustainer, Redeemer, and King!
3. How can one turn their back on Him? Especially when the Majesty on high proclaimed at the Mount of Transfiguration: This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him! – Matthew 17:5
4. Are you heeding the words of the Beloved Son, God’s Perfect Spokesman? – Matthew 28:18-20
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Hebrews 11:06 – Do We Believe That God Is? audio
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Podcast: Play in new window | Download
(Taking a Hard Look at Our Own Convictions)
Text: Hebrews 11:6
Introduction
A. In this series of lessons, we are emphasizing the need to take God more seriously. There is not a single one of us who does not need to do this!
B. In the last lesson, we saw that it’s possible for us to actually PLEASE God. That ought to be our confident hope and our highest aim.
C. In this lesson, we’ll look at FAITH — “for he who comes to God must believe that He is.”
D. Do we believe that God is? Let’s take a hard look at our own convictions.
Body
I. DO WE NEED THIS LESSON?
A. Some will already have said they don’t need to ask whether God is. They say, “of course we believe that God is!”
1. Well, perhaps we do, but in all honesty, the “faith” that many of us have is little more than a hand-me-down religion. Some indications:
(1) carnal attitudes and worldly lifestyles
(2) non-involvement in congregational life
(3) ignorance of the Scriptures
(4) vulnerability to temptation.
2. Ours may be a “Christian” nation — but few may really believe that God is.
3. And ours may be a faithful congregation but real, personal faith may be in short supply
B. The Scriptures speak of things like a “sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5) and a “genuine faith” (2 Timothy 1:5)
C. As individuals, our faith is somewhere on a continuum between the faith of others and a faith that is our own. The question is: what can we do to move toward a faith that is more our own?
D. Let’s look first at the difference between these two kinds of faith, starting with the one that we’re striving for: a truly genuine, personal faith.
II. THE INGREDIENTS OF PERSONAL FAITH
A. Genuine, personal faith has three basic elements:
1. Credence (belief) – John 8:24 – This includes not only the what but also the why – 1 Peter 3:15.
2. Confidence (trust) – 2 Timothy 1:12 – Real trust produces unconditional obedience: trust = obey.
3. Constancy (faithful unto death) – 2 Timothy 4:7-8 – Faith = Faithfulness – Revelation 2:10.
B. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your own faith in these three areas?
III. THE TRAITS OF MERE TRADITION
A. Definition: “tradition” simply refers to that which has been “received.”
B. In religion, some people’s faith is nothing more than tradition. They’ve simply been going with the flow, and their convictions are nothing more than those of the “chameleon.” Their faith is not really their own. It is a matter of convenience rather than conviction.
C. Now, what is wrong here is not tradition itself. There is nothing wrong with tradition! We are fools if we throw things away simply because they are traditional – 2 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 3:14-15; 2 Thessalonians 2:15.
D. Our point is not that faith and tradition are opposites, but that real faith is MORE than tradition!
E. The difference is not in the CONTENT, but in the QUALITY of our faith.
1. If our faith is mere tradition, then it’s probably very weak.
2. We’ve probably never examined it or thought it through.
3. It’s probably never been seriously tested. Cf. James 1:2, 3; 1 Peter 1:6-7.
4. It’s probably quite abstract & impersonal — God is little more than an idea to talk about.
5. Worst of all, we’re probably not able to give a reason for the hope that is within us – 1 Peter 3:15 — we don’t know why we believe.
F. Three dangers of a faith that is mere tradition:
1. It won’t stand the test of temptation.
2. It won’t stand the test of hardship.
3. It won’t stand the test of judgment – Matthew 7:22-23; Matthew 15:8-9
IV. STEPS WE CAN TAKE TO GROW IN OUR FAITH
A. Many never really confront the issue of real faith until they’re faced with some serious crisis in life. Yet this is too IMPORTANT an issue to postpone until a crisis makes it URGENT.
B. Can’t we decide right now to move from “hand-me-down religion” to a deeper, more genuine faith? What practical steps can we take?
1. First, we can be honest about our faith – Mark 9:24, 2 Corinthians 13:5.
2. Then we can:
a. Feed it.
b. Challenge it.
c. Refresh it.
C. Like most valuable things, real faith has to be grown. There is no “get faithful quick” scheme – 1 Timothy 4:15-16 – We need incremental growth, little investments in our faith day by day.
Conclusion
A. We say we “believe that God is,” but how much do we trust Him in making real-life decisions?
1. Do you believe that somebody could walk over Niagara Falls on a tightrope while pushing a wheelbarrow? Many might say they believed it, but how many would . . . get into the wheelbarrow?
2. When tough, real-world decisions have to be made we find out whether we truly “believe that God is.”
B. The goal of gospel teaching is to produce love out of:
(1) a pure heart
(2) a good conscience
(3) a “faith unfeigned” (1 Timothy 1:5 KJV)
(4) what we want is a faith that is the “real deal.”
C. In future, we won’t be able to “go with the flow.” The flow is moving in too many different directions!
D. It has never been more important to decide what kind of FAITH we’re going to have
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Titus 01:10-16 Those Who Resist Authority
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Text: Titus 1:10-16
Introduction
1. In his epistle to Titus, Paul’s first order of business was to:
a. Remind Titus why he was left on the island of Crete – Titus 1:5
b. Provide the qualifications needed for the appointment of elders – Titus 1:6-9
2. The need for such elders is described in the rest of the first chapter
a. Because of those described as insubordinate – Titus 1:10
b. Who were negatively impacting the churches on Crete – Titus 1:11
3. What does it mean to be an insubordinate?
a. Insubordinate: one who does not submit to authority, mutinous, unruly
b. Insubordination is therefore disobedience and resistance to authority
4. In the setting of our text, that would mean the authority of the apostles of Christ
a. In whose teachings the early church continued steadfastly – Acts 2:42
b. Whose teachings were to be considered on par with the Lord’s – 1 Corinthians 14:37; 1 Thessalonians 2:13
5. Insubordination can be a problem in churches today, so we do well to carefully consider the text of our study – Titus 1:10-16
Body
I. Who are We Talking About?
A. IN THE CHURCHES OF CRETE
1. They were idle talkers and deceivers – Titus 1:10
a. More given to talk than practical religion
b. Not honest, seeking to deceive others
c. Such conduct had permeated the character of those living on Crete – Titus 1:12-13a
d. It was also true of those among the circumcision – Titus 1:10
2. Their minds and consciences were defiled – Titus 1:15
a. A natural consequence of deceiving others
b. Their minds and consciences have become corrupted
c. Notice Paul’s description of such people in 1 Timothy 6:3-5
3. They had become abominable and disobedient – Titus 1:16
a. Abominable: detestable to God
b. Disobedient: unwilling to be persuaded and obey
c. Guilty of six things that are an abomination to God – Proverbs 6:16-19
4. They were disqualified for every good work – Titus 1:16
a. Disqualified: literally, reprobate, worthless
b. Of no real value to God, who has created us to walk in good works – Ephesians 2:10
B. IN CHURCHES TODAY
1. Those who resist the authority of the Word are more likely to be given to talk than doing
2. We should beware of those prone to be talkers and not doers
3. They not only deceive others, but themselves as well – James 1:22-26
4. Following them will make our religion useless
II. What difference do they make?
A. IN THE CHURCHES OF CRETE
1. They were subverting whole households – Titus 1:11
a. Turning them away from the faith
b. Not just one member, but entire families!
2. They were teaching things they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain – Titus 1:11
a. Motivated more by popularity and monetary gain
b. Willing therefore to teach things that were not true
B. IN CHURCHES TODAY
1. Insubordinates are also motivated by such things as popularity and monetary gain
2. Who will teach what others want to hear, rather than the Word of God
3. Whose influence will not stop with just one or two, but impact entire families!
III. What should be done?
A. IN THE CHURCHES OF CRETE
1. Their mouths were to be stopped – Titus 1:11
a. It means, properly, to check, or curb, as with a bridle; to restrain, or bridle in; and then, to put to silence
b. It is, of course, implied here that this was to be done in a proper way, and in accordance with the spirit of the gospel
2. They were to be rebuked sharply – Titus 1:13
a. The reproof should be such as would be understood, and would show them plainly the wickedness of such traits of character
b. Titus was not to be mealy-mouthed, but he was to call things by their right names, and not to spare their faults
3. With the goal of helping them to be sound in the faith – Titus 1:13
a. Confronting error has the objective of saving the one in error
b. Not just stopping the spread of error
4. This was the duty, not just of Titus, but of the elders – Titus 1:9
B. IN CHURCHES TODAY
1. We must take insubordination seriously
2. We must stop the spread of false teaching by addressing it plainly
3. We must have in view the salvation of those guilty of insubordination and error
4. This is the duty of both evangelists and elders
5. If the insubordinate fails to repent, then withdrawal is the final option
a. As Paul commanded the church in Rome – Romans 16:17-18
b. As he commanded the church in Thessalonica – 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14-15
Conclusion
1. We have seen that those who resist the authority of God’s Word
a. Hurt themselves by corrupting their minds and consciences
b. Harm those whom they influence through their teaching
2. Insubordinates must be stopped
a. By rebuking them sharply, hoping they will become sound in the faith
b. If they do not repent, then we must withdraw ourselves from them Elders and evangelists are especially charged with the responsibility of dealing with insubordinates. But every Christian should be on guard against the harmful influence of those who are disobedient and resistant to the authority of God’s Word
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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2 Timothy 04:06-18 Why Paul Died a Happy Man
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Text: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 18
Introduction
1. The Bible is silent regarding the death of the apostle Paul
a. The tradition is that Paul, as a Roman citizen, was beheaded on the Ostian Road just outside of Rome – ISBE
b. We have the concurrent testimony of ecclesiastical antiquity that he was beheaded at Rome, by Nero, in the great persecutions of the Christians, by that emperor, A.D. 67 or 68 – Smith
2. The Bible does reveal Paul’s anticipation of death
a. He knew when it was imminent – 2 Timothy 4:6
b. He expressed a strong confidence concerning his demise – 2 Timothy 4:7-8, 18
3. How was Paul able to approach death with such serenity and joy concerning the future?
Body
I. HIS VIEW OF DYING
A. AN OFFERING
1. I am already being poured out as a drink offering – 2 Timothy 4:6
2. His death was just another way to offer himself as a sacrifice to God
a. He encouraged all to offer themselves as spiritual sacrifices – Romans 12:12
b. Thus he sought to magnify Christ, even in the manner of death – Philippians 1:20
3. Have we thought of how we die as a way to magnify Christ?
a. We may not die a martyrs death, as did Paul
b. But we can demonstrate the death of a believer with hope
B. A DEPARTURE
1. the time of my departure is at hand – 2 Timothy 4:6
a. departure – a metaphor drawn from loosing moorings preparatory to setting sail
b. The true idea of death is that of loosening the bands that confine us to the present world; of setting us free, and permitting the soul to go forth, as with expanded sails, on its eternal voyage. With such a view of death, why should a Christian fear to die?
2. Like Peter, who also did not view death as ceasing to exist
a. Peter viewed his death as exit – 2 Peter 1:15
b. An allusion to the Israelites going out of Egypt, and marching for Canaan’s land; this world being, like Egypt, a place of wickedness, misery, and bondage; as heaven, like Canaan, a place and state of rest and happiness.
3. Paul looked forward to departing to be with Jesus – Philippians 1:23
a. To be with Christ is far better – 2 Corinthians 5:6-8
b. Jesus would have the promise to be with Him to be a comfort to us – John 14:1-3
4. Do we view death as the beginning of a journey?
a. A journey long anticipated?
b. A journey for which preparation has been made?
5. One’s view of death will determine ones attitude toward it. Paul’s view of it as an offering and a departure helped him approach dying with a joyful anticipation.
II. HIS PRECIOUS MEMORIES
A. HE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT
1. I have fought the good fight – 2 Timothy 4:7
a. The Christian life is often described as a conflict or a war – Ephesians 6:10-17
b. That noble conflict with sin, the world, the flesh, and the devil, Paul now says he had been able to maintain.
2. Paul could look back over his life with satisfaction
a. Not that he was sinless, but he had found mercy – 1 Timothy 1:12-16
b. Not that he was perfect, but he always tried to do better – Philippians 3:12-14
3. Will we at life’s end be able to look back at a fight well done?
a. Having received the mercy Jesus offers for our sins?
b. Having fought the good fight of faith, laying hold on eternal life? – 1 Timothy 6:12
B. HE FINISHED THE RACE
1. I have finished the race – 2 Timothy 4:7
a. Paul compared the Christian life to running a race – 1 Corinthians 9:24-26
b. An endurance race, not a sprint – Hebrews 12:1-2
2. Paul could look back over his life with contentment
a. He had run the race to win, with certainty
b. He had not given up, but pressed on to the goal – Philippians 3:13-14
3. Will we at life’s end be able to look back at a race well run?
a. Completing the race of faith set before us?
b. Or letting the sin of unbelief to easily ensnare us? – Hebrews 12:1
C. HE KEPT THE FAITH
1. I have kept the faith – 2 Timothy 4:7
2. Paul could look back over his life with happiness
a. He had kept and guarded the faith (Gospel) entrusted to him – 1 Timothy 1:11
b. He had maintained faithfulness to Jesus, despite great suffering – 2 Timothy 1:12
3. Will we at life’s end be able to look back on a faith that has been kept?
a. Holding fast to the words of eternal life in the gospel of Jesus Christ?
b. Remaining strong in our faith in Jesus as our Lord and Savior?
4. Paul could die a happy man because of his precious memories. Looking back, he could take comfort in knowing he had fought hard, run well, and kept the faith.
III. HIS GLORIOUS HOPE
A. THE CROWN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
1. There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness – 2 Timothy 4:8
a. Crown – the wreath or garland which was given as a prize to victors in public games – 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
b. metaphorically the eternal blessedness which will be given as a prize to the genuine servants of God and Christ: the crown which is the reward of the righteousness – Thayer
c. Also described as the crown of life – James 1:12; Revelation 2:10
2. Which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day – 2 Timothy 4:8
a. Jesus has been appointed to judge the world one Day – Acts 17:30-31
b. He will judge the living and the dead – 2 Timothy 4:1; 2 Corinthians 5:10
c. For some, a day of condemnation; for others, a day to be glorified – 2 Thessalonians 1:7-12
3. Not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing – 2 Timothy 4:8
a. The same hope, the same reward, is available to others
b. Provided they likewise desire His coming – e.g., Revelation 22:20
c. Thus we are to set our hope on the grace that is to be revealed – 1 Peter 1:13
4. Are we looking forward to same reward that Paul had?
a. To be received on the Day of Judgment?
b. Such that we love and eagerly look forward to His appearing?
B. DELIVERANCE FROM EVIL
1. The Lord will deliver me from every evil work – 2 Timothy 4:18
a. Deliverance from the efforts of evil men and Satan to destroy him
b. he expected afflictions as long as he was in the world, but he knew that God would support him under them; and in his own time and way deliver out of them;
2. Not deliverance from death per se
a. He knew his martyrdom was near – 2 Timothy 4:6
b. But in the Lord, even death can be a deliverance from evil – Isaiah 57:1
3. Do we have the same confidence of victory that Paul had?
a. Knowing that the Lord will always be with us?
b. Trusting that the Lord will deliver us through any hardship?
C. PRESERVATION FOR THE KINGDOM
1. And preserve me for His heavenly kingdom – 2 Timothy 4:18
a. Paul looked forward to future manifestation of the kingdom
b. The same everlasting kingdom of which Peter wrote – 2 Peter 1:11
c. The same kingdom Jesus promised to those on His right hand – Matthew 25:34
2. Paul had confidence in the preserving power of the Lord
a. Knowing that God could finish what He started – Philippians 1:6
b. Knowing that He would provide a way of escape in every temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:13
c. Thus praying for the preservation of others – 1 Thessalonians 5:23
3. Do we have the same trust in the preservation of the Lord that Paul had?
a. Knowing that the Lord will likewise keep us for the kingdom?
b. Knowing that we are kept by the power of God through faith? – 1 Peter 1:5
Conclusion
1. Paul was able to die a happy man, because of:
a. His view of dying
b. His precious memories
c. His glorious hope
d. For such reasons one can truly say, Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on – Revelation 14:13
2. If we also approach death
a. As an opportunity to praise God and the beginning of a journey
b. Having fought the good fight, having finished the race, and having kept the faith
c. Looking forward to the crown of righteousness, knowing he will deliver us from evil, and will preserve us for his heavenly kingdom
d. Then we too will say concerning the Lord, To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen! – 2 Timothy 4:18
e. May our anticipation of death one day mirror that of the apostle Paul
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Moral Issue: Tobacco Use – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – audio
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Moral Issues: Gambling - Sex - Tobacco Use
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Text: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Introduction
1. Another moral issue confronting Christians is the consumption of tobacco
a. In the form of smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes)
b. Also smokeless tobacco (chew, snuff)
2. In the past, the dangers of tobacco use may have not been known
a. Prompting many (including Christians) to consider it a harmless habit
b. Even today some take it lightly
3. But the evidence for the harmful effects of tobacco is now overwhelming
Body
I. STATISTICS ON TOBACCO
A. OVERALL MORTALITY
1. Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States
2. Cigarette smoking causes an estimated 438,000 deaths, about 1 of every 5 deaths, each year
3. More deaths are caused each year by tobacco use than by all deaths from human HIV, illegal drug use, alcohol use, motor vehicle injuries, suicides, and murders combined
4. On average, adults who smoke cigarettes die 14 years earlier than nonsmokers
5. Centers For Disease Control Prevention
B. MORTALITY FROM SPECIFIC DISEASES
1. Lung cancer: 123,800 deaths; other cancers: 34,700 deaths per year
2. Chronic lung disease: 90,600 deaths; coronary heart disease: 86,800 deaths per year
3. Stroke: 17,400 deaths; other diagnoses: 84,600 deaths per year
C. EFFECTS OF SECOND HAND SMOKE
1. Secondhand smoke exposure causes heart disease and lung cancer in nonsmoking adults
2. It causes approximately 3,400 lung cancer deaths and 22,700- 69,600 heart disease deaths annually among adult nonsmokers in the United States
3. It causes respiratory symptoms in children and slows their lung growth
4. It causes sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more frequent and severe asthma attacks in children
5. Almost 60% of U.S. children aged 3-11 years-or almost 22 million children-are exposed to secondhand smoke
6. There is no risk-free level of secondhand smoke exposure – even brief exposure can be dangerous — Ibid.
D. OTHER FORMS OF TOBACCO USE
1. Pipe smoking and cigar smoking increase the risk of dying from cancers of the lung, esophagus, larynx, and oral cavity
2. Smokeless tobacco contains 28 cancer-causing agents (carcinogens)
3. Smokeless tobacco use increases the risk for developing oral cancer
4. Adolescents who use smokeless tobacco are more likely to become cigarette smokers — Ibid.
E. IN VIEW OF THE EVIDENCE OF HARMFUL EFFECTS, THERE ARE GOOD REASONS TO ABSTAIN FROM TOBACCO
II. WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD ABSTAIN
A. THE EFFECT ON OUR BODIES
1. Remember what the Bible teaches
a. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:19
b. Our bodies have been bought, and are not our own – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
c. Our bodies are to glorify God – 1 Corinthians 6:20
d. Our bodies are instruments by which we serve God – Romans 12:1-2; 6:13,19
2. Thus our bodies are a reflection of our stewardship
a. We are all stewards of God’s manifold grace – 1 Peter 4:10
b. Our duty is to be faithful in what has been given us – 1 Corinthians 4:2
c. We shall be judged by how we used what has been given us – Luke 16:10-12
d. What if someone borrowed what is yours and misused it (e.g., your car)?
3. Years cut short by tobacco are lost opportunities to serve and glorify God
B. THE EFFECT ON OTHERS
1. Hurting, even killing them through second-hand smoke
2. Burdening family financially with hospital bills left behind
3. Depriving family of your presence as spouse, parent, grand-parent
4. Impoverishing the church and society of our talents and service
5. Is slowly killing yourself and harming others showing love, or selfishness?
C. THE EFFECT ON OUR INFLUENCE
1. We are role models, for our faith is spoken of by others – Romans 1:8; 16:19
2. We influence others for good or ill
3. Can we say what Paul did about following one’s example? – Philippians 3:17
4. Do we consider the effect it has on saving others? – 1 Corinthians 10:31-33
5. Does tobacco help or hinder our efforts to share Christ with others?
Conclusion
1. The harmful effects of tobacco have been clearly established
a. The scientific evidence is overwhelming
b. Even our bodies tell us by the way they react to smoke
2. Christians have ample reason to abstain
a. For health reasons
b. For spiritual reasons
For those addicted to nicotine, stopping may not be easy. But I trust we have seen that one should make every effort to rid themselves of this habit that can destroy both body and soul
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Moral Issue: Gambling – Ephesians 04:17-20 – audio
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Moral Issues: Gambling - Sex - Tobacco Use
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Introduction
1. We turn now to gambling, a moral issue confronting Christians due to:
a. The proliferation of government sanctioned gambling (e.g., state lotteries)
b. The easy access to gambling (race track, lottery tickets in convenience stores, bingo, charitable gambling and casinos are going to be back on the ballot) [editor’s note: Casino’s are now opening in Columbus Oct 8th, 2012. Voted down by Franklin county voters, but voted in by the statewide Ohio electorate]
2. What is gambling (or gaming)…?
a. The wagering of money or something of material value on an event with an uncertain outcome with the primary intent of winning additional money and/or material goods
b. Typically, the outcome of the wager is evident within a short period
c. The term gaming in this context typically refers to instances in which the activity has been specifically permitted by law
3. Sadly, some religions encourage gambling
a. Both the Catholic and Jewish traditions traditionally set aside days for gambling – Dwayne Carpenter, quoted in Gambling Had Role in Religious History
b. The above article mentions Christmas and Hanukkah as holidays in which gambling was permitted, if not encouraged
4. If both states and some religions approve of gambling, what could be wrong with it?
Body
I. FALSE ARGUMENTS USED TO JUSTIFY GAMBLING
A. LIFE IS A GAMBLE?
1. Does not Solomon say time and chance happen to them all? – Ecclesiastes 9:11
2. So it may appear when life is viewed under the sun (a purely worldly perspective)
3. But God’s will in our lives precludes a life of pure chance – 1 Corinthians 4:19; James 4:15
4. Life is not gambling, it involves the will of God!
B. FARMING IS A GAMBLE?
1. Does not the farmer take a risk in sowing when he may not reap?
2. But God has promised seedtime and harvest would not cease – Genesis 8:22
3. Farming is an honorable way of receiving God’s blessings – Psalm 104:14
4. Farming is not gambling, it involves the activity of God!
C. BUYING INSURANCE IS A GAMBLE?
1. Is not buying insurance a gamble?
2. Insurance is simply a method of shifting risk (accident, illness) from one party to another
3. It is also a way of providing for one’s family, an important duty – 1 Timothy 5:8
4. Insurance is not gambling, when used to shift risk and provide for others
D. INVESTING IS A GAMBLE?
1. Is not investing in business or the stock market a gamble?
2. It can be, when involving speculative or significant risks
3. But good and safe investments are not evil within themselves – Matthew 25:14-30
4. Investing is not gambling, when done prudently
II. ARGUMENTS AGAINST GAMBLING
A. THE PRINCIPLE IS SINFUL
1. Gambling violates the work ethic – Ephesians 4:28; 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
a. To gain from honorable labor
b. Not get rich quick schemes
2. Gambling violates the stewardship ethic – 1 Chronicles 29:13-14; 1 Peter 4:10
a. All things come from God
b. We will have to give an account for our stewardship
3. People gamble for a quick buck, willing to risk what is not theirs
B. THE MOTIVATION IS SINFUL
1. People gamble because of greed – 1 Timothy 6:9-10
a. Their desire to be rich, which leads to foolish and harmful lusts, destruction and perdition
b. Their love of money, which leads to loss of faith and many sorrows
2. People gamble because of covetousness – Ephesians 5:3-7; Colossians 3:5-6
a. They want something more than God, making it idolatry
b. They will bring the wrath of God upon themselves
3. People gamble because they want to be rich, a desire we should flee (1 Timothy 6:11)
C. THE FRUIT IS SINFUL
1. It takes advantage of others’ weaknesses – Romans 15:1-2
a. Exploiting others or extorting money for one’s own advantage
b. Do gamblers care what happens to those who lose?
2. It leads to unsavory companions – 1 Corinthians 15:33; Ephesians 5:11
a. Others who are motivated by greed and covetousness
b. Those quick to take advantage: bookies, loan sharks, etc.
3. It leads to addiction – 2 Peter 2:19
a. Gambling can become psychologically and physically addictive
b. Monetary reward in a gambling-like experiment produces brain activation very similar to that observed in a cocaine addict receiving an infusion of cocaine. – Hans Breiter, MD, co-director of the Motivation and Emotion Neuroscience Centre at Massachusetts General Hospital
4. It leads to other sins – Mark 7:21-23
a. As debts build up, people turn to other quick sources of money (theft, drugs)
b. Suicide is common, along with abuse, divorce, other mental disorders
5. People who gamble do not consider how they hurt themselves and others
Conclusion
1. Which is gambling more like…?
a. The works of the flesh, or the fruit of the Spirit? Galatians 5:19-23
b. The deeds of the old man, or the apparel of the new man? Colossians 3:5-14
2. One does need to look long to see that gambling is sinful:
a. The motive is greed
b. The desire is to get rich quick (covetousness)
c. The harm to self and others is extensive
3. Consider these tidbits of wisdom:
a. Gambling: The sure way of getting nothing from something – Wilson Mizner
b. The safest way to “double your money” is to fold it over once and put it in your pocket
c. By gaming we lose both our time and treasure – two things most precious to the life of man – Owen Felltham
d. Lottery: A tax on people who are bad at math – Author Unknown
Only those blinded by the deceitfulness of sin have problems seeing the problems with gambling…
“This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart; who, being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you have not so learned Christ…” – Ephesians 4:17-20
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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