1. What are the author’s warnings? Let us fear (v. 1); let us labor (v. 11), let us hold fast (v. 14), let us come boldly (v. 16).
2. How does the apostle indicate his concern that some have false assurance? Come short of the promise (v. 1).
3. What had been the trouble with the Israelites of old who had failed to enter Canaan? They had believed and followed but not believed (v. 2; cf. 3:17).
4. How will one know that he has truly believed? Entered unto rest (v. 3).
5. What is this spiritual rest? The peace of God keeps our hearts through Christ (Philippians 4:7). Note: in the last part of this verse also in verse 5, there is an unfortunate mistranslation. Instead of, “if they shall enter,” it is “they shall not enter.”
6. What rest does the writer now use as an illustration of the rest that God gives? Sabbath Day (v. 4; Genesis 2:1-2). God found rest in what He had done and called Adam and Eve to share in that rest. We must now find rest in His new creation in Christ.
7. Let us therefore (lit.) be zealous to enter into that rest (v. 11).
8. Why is it dangerous to play fast and lose with the Word of God? “The Word is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edge sword” (v. 12).
9. Where does the Word of God search beyond our minds? Our hearts (v. 12). The Word is a divine thought-reader. While men criticize it, it exposes their own failings.
10. Is there any creature on earth who is not fully exposed to God? God knows all creatures (v. 13).
11. Having such a High Priest, what should these Hebrews do to whom the Epistle is written? Hold fast our profession (v. 14).
12. What does it mean to us that Jesus has entered the Heavens? Christ is our forerunner (6:20).
13. What should strengthen our confidence in Christ as our Heavenly Priest? He knows us and was tempted like us (v. 15).
14. What distinguishes Christ from the priest of old? Christ never sinned (v. 15; cf. 5:2-3).
15. Because He did not yield to sin, is He less able to feel for us in all our burdens, sorrows, and testing? He bore our grief and carried our sorrows (Isaiah 53:4).
If you have never really accepted Jesus as your personal Savior, would you do it right now? Do not delay or put it off. If you would like to receive Christ by faith, pray this simple prayer in your heart:
Dear Lord, I acknowledge that I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died for my sins on the cross, and rose again the third day. I repent of my sins. By faith I receive the Lord Jesus as my Savior. You promised to save me, and I believe You, because You are God and cannot lie. I believe right now that the Lord Jesus is my personal Savior, and that all my sins are forgiven through His precious blood. I thank You, dear Lord, for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you prayed that prayer, God heard you and saved you. I personally want to welcome you to the family of God and rejoice with you.
Dr. Towns’ email is eltowns@liberty.edu.
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