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Letter to the Hebrews. Message 34

Paul set forth how we are reflect the Person of Jesus Christ to the world, living out our lives for Him with accuracy, preciseness, correctness. Paul gave us some characteristics which we can us to examine ourselves by as he concluded this letter. We have described –

3. The Manifestation of Fidelity. Hebrews 13:1-17

The believer’s fidelity to God is noted by his –

a. Reputation. Hebrews 13:1-6

We should be known for our –

1). Love. 13:1

With the Lord Jesus Christ as our foundation and His character as our guiding principle, the following characteristics should flow naturally from the believer through our relationship to Him (Vine and branches) to others. We should know the great influence love has on all relationships. The Holy Spirit led the writers of the Scriptures to focus heavily on believers having love for God and for one another –

Mark 12:30-31 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

1 John 2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.

1 John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
Our pattern in life is the Lord Jesus Christ. He told the disciples –

“…follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” On another occasion He said “… I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” He told them “…As the Father has sent me, even so send I you.” Peter told us “…leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:…”. Each of these statements has its own context but each statement instructs us in this one thing – Jesus Christ our Saviour is our example of living out that salvation!
The Lord used the Apostle Paul to command us in this matter “Let brotherly love continue.” We must look to the Lord in order to be obedient to this command.

a). Jesus loves those who rejected Him.

Remember how during His final visit to Jerusalem, His heart was touched as He considered their future –

Luke 19:41-42 And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.

And a few days later with great compassion he called out –

Matthew 23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!

b). Jesus loves those that did not know of Him.

1 John 4:9-10 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

c). Jesus loves those that did not believe Him or encourage His ministry.

John 7:5 For neither did his brethren believe in him.
Those closest to Him in His personal life did not believe in Him at first, but following the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection they were serving Him – James being the pastor of the church in Jerusalem and Jude being the writer of the book of Jude. We might feel perfectly justified in telling off those that would come to us later and say, Hey, you were right.
Jesus loves them and is ready to act upon His love when they come to Him and confess “Lord, you are right and I was wrong. I believe that you are God and the Saviour of all who will come to you believing that you gave your life and the cross, that you were buried, and three days afterward, you took your life back and rose up from among the dead. Will you please forgive me and save me?

d). Jesus loves those that love Him.

John 15:9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

John 16:27 For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God.

Conclusion:

Love is a determined action. If we say that we love God, which we should because of His love of us, and also because of the indwelling of God the Holy Spirit, Who loves Him, our response to that love should be obvious according to His Word – “If ye love me, keep my commandments…”

Therefore, by loving Him, our responsibility is –

To love those that reject Him, and us as His servants. Treat them as you would any condemned person, knowing that the execution of the sentence against them is near. What they have on this earth is the best they will ever experience. Their day of reckoning is coming. Also, pray for their repentance and salvation. The Lord revealed His heart when He stated in Ezekiel –

“As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live…”

To love those that are without knowledge of Him.
“Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.”

2 Corinthians 10:16 To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you…

To love those that know Him. Determine to love them. How can we do this. By giving ourselves to help them to know Him better and love Him more. As we have already been exhorted in this letter – “ye that are strong receive the weak” and also –

Galatians 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Pray for them
Provide for them when they are in need
Prevent them from sin
Provoke them to good works

Realize that as the children of God, no matter what we were religiously, what we are culturally, where we live geographically, where we stand educationally or economically, we are brothers and sisters in Christ – we are His family and are expected to act as such that we might be called after Him – Christians.
We have His message to take into the world – that they might be saved.
We must work together to accomplish His purpose!

Today, do you realize that God loves you? You personally.
Today, will you trust Him, calling upon Him for salvation.
If you are saved, will you return His love to Him and then through Him to a world that does not know Him?

“If ye love me, keep my commandments”. Have you?

Letter to the Hebrews Message 33

D. Exhortation to Fidelity. Hebrews 12:12-13:17 We learned –

1. The Meaning of Fidelity. Hebrews 12:12-17

We noted the definition of fidelity is accuracy, preciseness, correctness.

An example of fidelity in the believer is found in the church in Antioch –

Acts 11:26 And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
Paul told them to present Jesus to the world in their lives by being an example through –

a. Courage. Hebrews 12:12 Being strengthened, they were to have good –
b. Conduct. Hebrews 12:13-17

Last week we noted the –

2. The Motivation to Fidelity. Hebrews 12:18-29

We endeavoured to discover ‘What motivates you in your living out your faith for the Lord.’? We should –

a. Regard our position in Christ as being better. Hebrews 12:18-24

Comparing the Old – (God’s power produced fear) with the New – peace and faith with the blessed anticipation of seeing God the Father and Christ Jesus, God the Son.

Today, we will review His Word that we may reinforce the instruction given to believers based on the truth that Jesus is –
Better than all things.
He has given His life, shed His blood that we might have life everlasting.
He is the only way to life in the Father.
No God exists but God – The Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit.
In simple terms, no life is presented to anyone in any way except by God through Jesus Christ.

Paul is stating here that since God has all authority, we had better listen to Him!

We must –
b. Remember these truths that we have learned –

1). We must not think about turning back to our old life.

Hebrews 10:34-36 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

2). We must remember those that did not turn back, even though they faced great hardships. Hebrews 11

3). We must run the race. Hebrews 12:1,2 “Run with patience…”

4). We must keep going, knowing we may suffer, even to giving our lives.
“Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.”

5). We must be strong, having a firm grip and a strong gait, helping others.
“lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees…”

6). We must not put any confidence in the dead Law.

Colossians 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

7). We must thank God for His grace and His blessings – the city of God.
“…ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem…”

8). We must rejoice in our great God the Father and His Son, Jesus.

“…and to God the Judge of all …And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling…”

Knowing this, we must –

c. Respect His Word. Hebrews 12:25-27

1). Experience based on His performance. 12:25,26a

Hebrews 12:25 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:

We should always remember that consequences will follow disobedience.

Paul reminded the Hebrews how their forefathers sinned against God by forgetting His Word so quickly.

a). They feared to listen to God as He spoke. Exodus 20:19
b). They failed to take His Word seriously. Exodus 20:23

‘Ye shall not make me gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold”

c). They forsook the Words of God and rebelled against Him.

Exodus 32:1 And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.

Exodus 32:4 And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a molten calf: and they said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.

They needed, as we do, to believe God, trust Him and refuse to turn back and stop serving Him.

We need to clarify again that the Lord is not speaking of His children losing their salvation. He is speaking of them being corrected while they live, and if they would not accept the correction, (1 John 5:16 “…there is a sin unto death…” ), He would simply kill them and take them to be with Him. Do not be afraid of losing your salvation – be afraid of wasting it!

You see, our problem is fear of giving our all to the Lord. To completely invest ourselves with Him in His will. We are afraid to “get on board” and go “all out” for the Lord. We want to control our lives and so we give Him a little at a time, making sure we can pull back when we are unsure of what will happen.

I remember when I was a teenager I went a number of times with my brother and his friends to an amusement park called Glen Echo, just outside of Washington, D.C. I enjoyed many of the games – trying to knock down bottles with a softball, throwing wooden rings over prizes, shooting moving targets with a rifle. It was fun to play the games that I was in control of. My brother and his friends loved riding the roller coaster. It was an old wooden trestle coaster. This was long before most of the safety devices we know today. I never went with them on the coaster. It was loud and the wood creaked as the cars roared down the hills and around the curves. I stood and watched as they laughed and screamed, having a great time. One of the biggest thrills was on the longest drop. It began at the very highest point with the cars circling slowing, approaching the drop, and then flying down the incline. Dave and them would stand up and put their arms in the air, screaming at the top of their lungs. As the cars came to a stop at the end, they would jump off, run out to the booth and buy tickets to ride again. They had the greatest time, and I watched, afraid to commit myself to something I could not control. How sad that I missed so much. Now, I did not do anything wrong – except the wrong in robbing myself of opportunities and not being an encourage to others to go all in with their lives.
Most Christians live their lives much like my time spent in the park – enjoying some small things but missing the greatest opportunities of all. If we are to seek the greatest blessings of God in this life, we must see our –

2). Expectation based on His promise. 12:26b,27

God is preparing us to live with Him forever in the place that will never change.
This earth is cursed by sin and needs to be remade, which it will be in the end time, an everlasting perfect home for God among His people.
And because of these truths, we should –

d. Resolve to serve. 12:28,29

God has a plan for us and we should determine that we will serve Him, beginning now!

Ephesians 2:4-10 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

God helps us to choose to do right by reminding us of the consequences of doing wrong.

“For our God is a consuming fire.”

Remember –
Hebrews 10:30-31 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Are you obedient or are you telling God “No, I want to do my will, not yours”.
Are you saved?
Are you serving?
Are you all in, giving yourself over completely to God?

Letter to the Hebrews, Message 32
We have begun looking into Paul’s –
D. Exhortation to Fidelity. Hebrews 12:12-13:17 We learned –

1. The Meaning of Fidelity. Hebrews 12:12-17

We noted the definition of fidelity is accuracy, preciseness, correctness.

An example of fidelity in the believer is found in the church in Antioch –

Acts 11:26 And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Paul told them to present Jesus to the world in their lives by being an example through –

a. Courage. Hebrews 12:12 Being strengthened, they were to have good –
b. Conduct. Hebrews 12:13-17 This good conduct took –

1). Commitment – to the right way. 12:13
2). Compassion – to help others. 12:13b,14
3). Conviction – to know and teach the Truth. 12:15-17
We concluded the message last week with this question –

Is the Lord precious to you today?
Is the Lord’s church precious to you today?

This morning we are moving on from The Meaning of Fidelity to –

2. The Motivation to Fidelity. Hebrews 12:18-29

Today we will look at verses 18 to 24 considering this thought – “What motivates you in your living out your faith for the Lord.”?

Paul reminded them again of that which is better. Why live under the Law when Jesus is better than the Law –

Colossians 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

And not only that truth, but why would some want to resurrect the Law when it was fulfilled in the Lord, the only One who could satisfy it completely! the Apostle Peter testified to the leaders of the church in Jerusalem –

Acts 15:10-11 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? “But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.”

Some, even in our day, justify their position by claiming they are not restoring the whole law into their system, just parts of it. James warned of this attitude –

James 2:10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

Paul exhorted us to keep pressing forward, running this race in the Lord. We should –

a. Regard our position in Christ as being better. Hebrews 12:18-24

Compare –

1). The Old – God’s power produced fear. 12:18-21 They saw –

a). The material, earthly creation – Mount Sinai.
b). The majestic. God appeared to the people on the mount.
c). The manifestation which instilled fear and trembling –
“…I exceedingly fear and quake…”

2). The New – peace and faith. 12:22-24
“But ye are come to mount Sion…” You are saved, forgiven…

a). The City. 12:22a
“…the city of the living God, the Heavenly Jerusalem…”

Revelation 21:10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,

Not made by the hands of man, but made of God Himself! Note the description –

Revelation 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

Revelation 21:10-12 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal…

Revelation 21:18-21 And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.

Revelation 22:1-3 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:

The City of the Living God!

In this city is –

b). The Congregation. 12:22b,23

(1). Angels. “… innumerable company of angels…”

Not only the Holy Angels, but those men that trusted God by faith –

(2). New Testament saints and the church.

“…which are written in Heaven…”

Revelation 5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

(3). Old Testament saints. “… spirits of just men made perfect.”

c). God the Father and Christ Jesus, God the Son, Mediator of the New Covenant. 12:24

Our God, Our Lord, Our High Priest – we will see Him face to face!

Hebrews 12:24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.

Remember Paul’s testimony of Abel’s faith in –

Hebrews 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

Able’s offering testified of his faith to his salvation, but Jesus blood testifies of salvation unto all that will believe. How much better is the blood of Jesus, which still testifies even today –

Jesus Christ gave His life that we might have eternal life.
If you ignore His sacrifice you will remain in your sin. Consider Pontus Pilate.
If you reject His sacrifice you will remain in your sin. Consider the religious leaders. Acts 5 “…bring this man’s blood on our heads…”
If you trust Him in His sacrifice – He was save you from your sin –

1 Peter 1:18-19 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

In this city is being fulfilled now the promise of the Lord –

John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

He is better than the Prophets, the Angels, the Law – He is God. Will you trust Him today?
As a believer, the child of God, what is your motivation to run this race with fidelity, presenting an accurate witness to the world of the Lord Jesus Christ?

Excerpt from notes on Building a Christian Home
VI. The Children

A. Blessings from God.

1. Created according to God’s plan.

Genesis 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

2. Children are given by God. Psalm 127,128.
3. Children’s needs are to be supplied by the parents. II Corinthians 12:14.

Proverbs 13:22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children:….
B. Growth cycle. (raised unto the Lord).
C. Adulthood. (committed to the Lord)
Problem. Household revolves around the children instead of the husband/wife.
D. Discipline in the home.
The husband/father is responsible and will give an account to God. The father must understand the importance that God places on respect, reverence, submission, and obedience. In giving the Commandments God set forth man’s responsibility is to worship Him alone and give Him the reverence He is worthy of. Building upon this foundation worship and obedience to Himself, God commanded children to honour and obey their parents. Honour and obedience to God and honour and obedience to parents are necessary to have a right relationship with the community at large. Right actions (not stealing, not bearing false witness…) are meaningless without a right relationship with God and then with parents.
The father is responsible to build the child up on these foundational truths given by God.

1. The first step in right discipline is instruction in the right way to go.

a. Teaching God’s Word.

Psalms 119:9-11 BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Psalms 119:89 LAMED. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.

Psalms 119:105 NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Psalms 119:130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

1). Paul commends Timothy’s mother for her teaching him as a child.

2 Timothy 1:5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

2). Solomon encourages the teaching of children.
Proverbs 1:8; 4:1,2; 6:20; 13:1; 15:5; 28:7. See also Malachi 1:6

b. Responsibility of complete education. (From notes from Fairfax Baptist Temple).

1). Education in Biblical perspective.

a). Education is to enable man to carry out his purpose on Earth and in eternity.

(1). To know the purpose of education we must know the purpose of man.
(2). Man’s purpose as designed by God is twofold:

(a). The first mandate.

[1]. To be fruitful and multiply, and replenish. Genesis 1:28.
[2]. To subdue and have dominion.

Psalms 8:6 Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:

(b). The second mandate. (redemptive) Genesis 3:17-19

[1]. Matthew 11:27-30. Come unto me
[2]. Necessary because of the fall of man.
[3]. By sin, the earth subdues man.
[4]. Becomes the foundation of the Great Commission.

b). Accomplishing man’s purpose.

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

(1). What is the educational end product?

(a). To glorify God.

1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

(b). To be as much like Christ as possible.

[1]. How to think and act Biblically.
[2]. To be aware of His leading and heading toward a life of specialty.
[3]. How to distinguish God’s wisdom from the wisdom of the world.
[4]. How to live as a Christian citizen under a government that does not always abide by Biblical principles.
[5]. Manifest the fruit of the Spirit.

(2). Incorporating the educational process – a parental responsibility.

(a). Deuteronomy 6:1-9
(b). Ephesians 6:1-4
(c). Proverbs 22:6
(d). Colossians 2:4-10

(3). God’s provision is complete for our lives.

(a). Where we are.
(b). For the present. – God knows your parental responsibility
(c). To meet our needs – God will meet your educational need.

2). Methods of Christian education.

a). Education must be Bible based.
b). Parents must stay involved in the education process.
c). Definition of education: The nature and process of communicating truth as well as
the result of having learned the truth.
d). Preparation of the soul.

(1). For eternity.
(2). For this world and the spiritual battle.
(a). Character molding.

[1]. Wisdom = Biblical knowledge + application.
[2]. A holy character must be developed from an unholy nature.

(b). Academic readiness.

[1]. What is sufficient academic preparation?

[a]. Reading – to read and know God’s Word.
[b]. Communication – to witness effectively.
[c]. History – to gain perspective.
[d]. Mathematics – to obtain orderliness.
[e]. Science – to understand and subdue the natural world.

[2]. All academics should be taught in order to glorify God.

2. The second step in discipline.

a. Chastisement.

Note that this discipline is regularly used in every area of life and the child must be taught to respect authority.

1). Administered in holiness and in love.

a). Too much correction is administered in anger.

(1). It is not for the good of the child.
(2). It is an immediate release for the parent, not a positive learning
process for the child.
(3). It is not Biblical.

Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

b). God’s example shows holiness and love.

Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

(1). Withholding correction does not show for love.
(2). Correction shows concern for the persons welfare.

(a). God explains that discipline shows love.

Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

(b). God has given senses to aid in education in preparing a child to live a God- honouring life.
It is possible for parents to create hostility and aggressiveness in their children by behaving violently themselves. If they scream and yell, lashing out emotionally, flailing the children for the accidents and mistakes, they serve as models for the children to imitate. That kind of parental violence is worlds apart for the proper disciplinary approach. However, when the child has lowered his head and clenched his fist, he is daring the parent to take him on. If the parent responds appropriately on the backside, he has taught the child a valuable lesson that is consistent with God’s natural method of instruction. Consider the purpose of pain in life. Suppose two year old Peter is pulling the tablecloth and with it comes a vase of roses which tips over the edge of the table, cracking him between the eyes. Peter is in great pain. From this pain he learns that it is dangerous to pull on the tablecloth. Likewise, he presses his arm against a hot stove and quickly learns that fire must be treated with respect….. for three or four years, he accumulates bumps and bruises and scratches and burns, each one teaching him to avoid making those same mistakes again. God created this mechanism as the child’s best vehicle for instruction. Dare to Discipline Dr. James Dobson. (Used by permission)

2). Administered consistently.

a). God’s justice is just and true. John 12:44-50
b). God’s justice is unchanging. John 1:1-5; Revelation 1:8

(1). He has revealed to us our responsibilities.
(2). He does not judge by man’s standard (which changes)
(3). Man needs to follow God’s standard.

(a). Makes the rules know, easy to be understood.
(b). Enforce them consistently.

2). Administered firmly.

a). More than discussion is involved.

(1). Discussion makes the rules known.
(2). Discussion makes the infraction (breaking of the rules) known.

b). Physical discipline is of God.

(1). To be administered in love.
(2). Pain is to be inflicted. (not injury)

(a). Enough to bring forth tears.

Proverbs 19:18 Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

(b). Enough to bring forth repentance.

Note: Not a false remorse, only being sorry for being caught!

Hebrews 12:17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.

(3). Right correction will show itself in Godly living.

b. Punishment. God will chasten the child in order to bring them to repentance.

Hebrews 12:5-11 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

The Letter to the Romans, chapter 15 Message 7

In these messages on chapter 15, we have seen the –
I. Identification with the Lord. 15:1-7
II. Interdependence in the Lord. 15:8-12
III. Intercession to the Lord. 15:13
IV. Interest in the church. Romans 15:14-29
Last week we saw that Paul began his concluding remarks with these –
A. Encouraging words. Romans 15:14
1. Filled with goodness.
2. Filled with knowledge. Paul commended them –
3. Filled with care.
Following these encouraging words, Paul set forth –
B. Explanatory words. Romans 15:15-29

1. Duty of ministry. Romans 15:15,16

Paul was dedicated to his service unto the Lord in the ministry to the Gentiles –

“…that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.”

His desire was that the church would honour God, bringing glory to the Lord –

Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

2. Diligence in ministry. Romans 15:17-21
a. The mandate received from the Lord. 15:17

Paul stated “…I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ…” because the Lord gave him the ministry and he was faithful to the call of God!

b. The ministry rehearsed to the church. 15:18-22
1). His integrity. 15:18a
“…I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me…”

2). His intention. 15:18b-21

a). To preach with power. 15:18b-19a
b). To present the Gospel to those that had never heard. 15:19b-21

As we finish the study of chapter 15, we need to read again Romans 10:13-15. We see that Paul –

3. Desired to involve them in the work. Romans 15:22-24

a. Further the ministry of the Gospel. “…having no more place in these parts…”

It was most important that they be involved in missions, getting out the gospel to all the world! The church in Rome would be the launching point of the Gospel being preached in the West.
This is statement defines the purpose of this letter. The church must be focused on preaching the gospel to all the world!

b. Finance the ministry of the Gospel. “…be brought on my way thitherward by you…”

3 John 6,7 Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.

The truth John wrote in his third epistle is universal in the ministry of missions

3 John 8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.

Which leads us to –

c. Fellowship in the ministry “…if I first be filled with your company.”

This is the theme presented throughout the ministry of the Word to the World – the churches, none having dominion over the other, but all having a partnership with one another – a fellowship –

2 Corinthians 8:3-5 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
Philippians 1:3-5 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
The fellowship, working together in carrying out the commandments of the Lord,

Matthew 28:18-20, is a true partnership in the Lord with everyone involved receiving the blessings of God through obedience to His Will. Paul did not want any church to miss out on this opportunity to serve the Lord –

Philippians 4:15-17 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

As we near the conclusion of this letter to the church in Rome, it is important for us to know that the doctrinal instruction set forth is not simply a document for theological study, but is God’s Word to unite them in truth, provoke them to obedience, and propel them into all the world carrying out the command of God “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature”.

Paul had been –

4. Delayed by obligations. Romans 15:25-27

Paul had challenged the churches to help the saints in Judea and was preparing the offering to be delivered to them as noted in his letter to the church at Corinth

1 Corinthians 16:1-4 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me.

He was –

5. Determined to visit. Romans 25:28,29

Romans 15:28-29 When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.
Paul was convinced that, even though he believed trouble would come to him in Jerusalem, God would send him to Rome and then, with their help, onto Spain. Rome held power over the countries to the west, even unto Britain. Rome controlled Spain and a large community of Jews dwelt there. Paul was enthusiastic in his desire to take the gospel to these people who lived in darkness.
Did Paul make the journey to Rome? No Biblical account of this ministry is given, but Clement of Rome wrote about 35 year after the death of Paul –
“Through envy Paul, too, showed by example the prize that is given to patience: seven times was he cast into chains; he was banished; he was stoned; having become a herald, both in the East and in the West, he obtained the noble renown due to his faith; and having preached righteousness to the whole world, and having come to the extremity of the West, and having borne witness before rulers, he departed at length out of the world, and went to the holy place, having become the greatest example of patience.”
V. Imploring their partnership in prayer. Romans 15:30-33
Paul asked the church in Rome to pray for him in earnest (strive together with me) that he may come to them according to the will of God. This needs to be our desire, that we will fulfil the will of God in our lives.

Romans chapter 15, Message 6

In these messages on chapter 15, we have seen the –
I. Identification with the Lord. 15:1-7
II. Interdependence in the Lord. 15:8-12
III. Intercession to the Lord. 15:13
IV. Interest in the church. Romans 15:14-29
Last week we saw that Paul began his concluding remarks with these –
A. Encouraging words. Romans 15:14
1. Filled with goodness.
2. Filled with knowledge. Paul commended them –
3. Filled with care.
Following these encouraging words, Paul set forth –
B. Explanatory words. Romans 15:15-29

1. Duty of ministry. Romans 15:15,16

Paul was dedicated to his service unto the Lord in the ministry to the Gentiles –

“…that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.”

His desire was that the church would honour God, bringing glory to the Lord –

Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

Tonight we will see what he wrote about –

2. Diligence in ministry. Romans 15:17-21

a. The mandate received from the Lord. 15:17

Paul stated “…I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ…” because the Lord gave him the ministry and he was faithful to the call of God!

Acts 26:14-18 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

b. The ministry rehearsed to the church. 15:18-22

1). His integrity. 15:18a

He would not claim for himself the work of others. The testimony of the churches spoke for him and he had no need to build himself up –

“…I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me…”

Many had been saved and churches had been established which would carry on the evangelization of the world from their locations outward, following the pattern which the Lord set forth as recorded in Acts 1:8 – begin where you are and reach out into all the world.

2). His intention. 15:18b-21

a). To preach with power. 15:18b-19a

“…to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, through signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God…”

b). To present the Gospel to those that had never heard. 15:19b-21

“…so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation: But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand.”

Paul explained that the ministry did not originate in his mind or the desire of his heart, or even the dangers of remaining in the area of Jerusalem. This ministry to the world was commanded by God and prophesied by Isaiah –

Isaiah 52:13-15 Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high. As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men: So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider.

Paul was sent forth by the Lord to exalt His name among the Gentiles. The message was not what the people would expect, thinking that power is always manifested in celebrity. The King came as the Servant, a thing unexpected by men. He had preached the gospel and churches had been established that would continue to evangelize throughout their areas. He was now free to venture further to the West, Rome and beyond –

Romans chapter 15, message 5

In these message on chapter 15, we have seen the –
I. Identification with the Lord. 15:1-7
II. Interdependent in the Lord. 15:8-12
III. Intercession to the Lord. 15:13
Tonight we turn to the –

IV. Interest in the church. Romans 15:14-29

Paul began his concluding remarks with these –

A. Encouraging words. Romans 15:14

He shared his heartfelt estimation (“…I myself also am persuaded…) of the people (…brethren…). He held this respect for them prior to writing this letter to them as we can see from his comment in –

Romans 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

He had not visited Rome and knew them only through their reputation. Their testimony reported by others revealed that they were –

1. Filled with goodness.

In this letter to the church in Rome, he stated that, even though he did not know them personally, he believed the Holy Spirit had also been working in them for the glory of God. The testimony that he had heard was the same as the testimony that he had seen in many of the churches, such as the church in Galatia –

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

2. Filled with knowledge. Paul commended them –

The Jews provided a library of the knowledge of God and His will, as Paul reminded them in chapter 3, verse 2 “…that unto them were committed the oracles of God”. The Old Testament prophesied of the promised Messiah and the gospel identified Him, Jesus of Nazareth, and revealed the truth of their need of repentance and faith. They, both Jew and Gentile, continued to grow through preaching teaching, and above all, the Holy Spirit’s illumination of the Word guided them in truth.
3. Filled with care.

Goodness and knowledge are manifested in love for one another. We must realize, as they did, that we are able to teach one another. This is the responsibility and the privilege of the members in the church. Note that this is to be the common practice of churches, not just the church at Rome. Refer to the letter to the Colossians –

Colossians 3:12-17 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Notice the last statement “…giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” In other words, when the time comes to serve the Lord, do it willingly, gladly, thankfully! Serving God should never be a bother to us, something to complain about and wish someone else would do the work.

His desire in writing to them was to equip them that they would increase their goodness, knowledge and care, challenging them to continue teaching one another to grow in the Lord. This was the ministry of the Apostle, given by the Lord –

Ephesians 4:11-13 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Following these encouraging words, Paul set forth –

B. Explanatory words. Romans 15:15-29

1. Duty of ministry. Romans 15:15,16

2 Peter 1:12-13 Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;

Paul was dedicated to his service unto the Lord in the ministry to the Gentiles –

2 Corinthians 11:23-28 Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.

He revealed his love for the Lord in his purpose –

“…that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.”

His desire was that the church would honour God, bringing glory to the Lord –

Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

Hebrews Chapter Twelve is introduced by exhortations to the believers in order for them to accomplish God’s purpose in their lives. There was an –

A. Exhortation to Fearlessness. Hebrews 10:19-39 They were called to remain –
1. Confident. Hebrews 10:35
2. Patient. Hebrews 10:36,37
3. Faithful. Hebrews 10:38,39 This led directly to the –
B. Exhortation to Faithfulness. Hebrews 11:1-40
C. Exhortation to Fortitude. Hebrews 12:1-11

We have learned of the exhortations to fearlessness and faithfulness in this race. Now we are prepared to receive the –

D. Exhortation to Fidelity. Hebrews 12:12-13:17

1. The Meaning of Fidelity. Hebrews 12:12-17

The definition of fidelity is as follows:
accuracy, exactness, precision, correctness.

An example of fidelity is found in the church in Antioch –

Acts 11:21-26 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord
(because of God’s Word and God’s work in the lives of the people) .
Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem:
(They heard what others had seen)
and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:
(looked for others to join in the work, to be a blessing and be blessed).
And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Who were those people? They were ‘Christ ones’, having an ‘exactness’, a ‘correctness’, in their likeness of Jesus Christ. When people saw them, they saw “Christ in them”.

Paul told them to present Jesus to the world in their lives by being an example through –

a. Courage. Hebrews 12:12
‘Wherefore’, they were to remember the instruction they have received from the Lord – being coached in their running and corrected in their relationship. Paul challenged them to have courage, strengthening –

1). Their grip. “..lift up the hands which hang down…”

Mark 12:30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

We are to listen to the Lord’s admonition –

Luke 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

Keep both hands on the plow,(lift up those hands and use them for the Lord!) your eyes on the Lord, not standing still but moving forward, which he speaks of next –

2). Their gait. “…the feeble knees…”

Paul instructed them to do as he was doing –

Philippians 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

As they were strengthened in their courage, they were to be aware of their –

b. Conduct. Hebrews 12:13-17

1). Commitment – to the right way. 12:13

The description of this right way was given by the Lord –

Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

Remember that Jesus is the strait gate (the Door). This word used here “strait” does not mean the same as the word pronounced the same way “straight”. It is not like a straight line or made up of straight lines. It means that it is a tight fit. Whosoever believes in the Lord can enter in, but only one at a time. We get on the “narrow way”, the path of life, one person at a time. Once on this path, we begin our race as has been described by Paul in 12:1-4.

We are to –

a). Consider your way. “Make straight paths for your feet…”

“…make straight paths…” this means ‘wheel tracks’

Referring to –

Proverbs 4:25-26 Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.

Knowing what you believe and where you are going! Know right doctrine –

Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Then –

b). Consider others. “…lest that which is lame be turned out of the way…”

In our conduct having a commitment to the right way and also having –

2). Compassion – to help others. 12:13b,14

“…but rather let it be healed.”

How is this to be carried out? We learn that it takes –

3). Conviction – to know and teach the Truth. 12:15-17

“looking diligently…” overseeing, watching out for anything that will trip you up “trouble you”

There are those like Esau who had little respect or value for God and His will.

They look at the Lord and His as church something to –

a). Treat – come to church to receive a reward
b). Trade – when a thing they value appears (pottage)
c). Take – tonic for an ailing life

The five thousand were not seeking food when they came to Jesus in the wilderness. The four friends were not seeking healing for their friend, they were seeking salvation for him (the healing was for the benefit of others that they would know that the Lord did have power to forgive sins). As a matter for the record, Jesus told many that they should not tell others what He had done for them! He was not using gimmicks to gather a crowd.

Do not get this wrong! God does reward His children, and God does supply their needs, and God does heal spiritually, emotionally, and physically – but what if He did not? Would you leave the Lord if none of these blessings were given? Would we be like Esau, envious and angry with others, seeking what they have in order to consume it upon his own lusts?

Do you consider the church as a place to receive a treat, to trade for a favour, or a tonic for your health, or do you consider the church a –

d). Treasure.

Is the Lord precious to you today?
Is the Lord’s church precious to you today?

Are you a ‘Christ-One”? Does your life have an ‘exactness’, a ‘correctness’ presenting a likeness of Jesus?

Can you say with Peter today –

1 Peter 1:18-23 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

The Letter to the Hebrews Message 30

C. Exhortation to Fortitude. Hebrews 12:1-11 Because of –

1. Their Fellowship. 12:1-3 (Fortitude to run the race)
a. The Participants.
b. The Preparation. To put away –
c. The Pace. Practical guide to long distance runners.
d. The Purpose. 12:2,3
2. Their Future. 12:4 “…not yet resisted unto blood…”

Today we look at the exhortation to –

3. Their Faith. Hebrews 12:5-11
(Fortitude to accept the correction as faithful children)
They needed to –

a. Remember God’s Word. Hebrews 12:5,6

The recipients of this letter would immediately recognize the Scripture Paul quoted and understand that the Lord does discipline His people. Their knowledge of His Word and His actions in the history of Israel would convince them of the justice of God –

Proverbs 3:11-12 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

Israel had been chastened for their sin and were, as children are when they receive a punishment, hurt, sad and crying. Note the psalmist description of them in captivity –

Psalm 137:1-4 By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. How shall we sing the LORD’S song in a strange land?

And the love of God in restoring them –

Psalm 126:1-3 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them. The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.

The chastening of God is for their good and for His glory. He will not allow those that bear His name bring shame to Him!

We should be convinced that God will correct His children. Knowing this is true Paul wanted them to –

b. Review their relationship. Hebrews 12:7,8

1). The evidence of your relationship is in the interaction between the Father and the child. The pattern of this interaction is followed in the church through the instruction of Paul to Pastor Timothy –

2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

The child of God understands that while the chastening of God is not pleasant at the time, it is a proof of we are the sons of God!

Hebrews 12:7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

2). The evidence that you are not a child of God is when you can live unto yourself and willingly sin without receiving any correction from God.

Hebrews 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

If you feel that this is the case, you receive no correction from God for your sins, you need to refer to –

2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

The world has no understanding of Scriptural truth and so has no ability to receive instruction in righteousness. Their need is conviction of the need of salvation.

c. Reverence the Lord. Hebrews 12:9-11

Do you realize that there are some children that actually get angry with their parents for correcting them?

They Plead –

Proverbs 19:18 Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

They Pout
They Protest – slamming doors, stomping feet, clinching fists.
They Plot – I will just run away

What should they do? They should be Pentitent – repentant and seeking forgiveness from God.

What we should do? Submit to God and obey Him.

Remember the warnings given in Scripture –

David lost his children because he refused to correct and to chasten them.

1 Kings 1:5-6 Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him. And his father had not displeased him at any time in saying, Why hast thou done so? and he also was a very goodly man; and his mother bare him after Absalom.

You would have thought that David would have heard the stories told by Samuel and Eli the priest and the destruction that came on his family because he refused to correct his sons –

1 Samuel 3:12-13 In that day I will perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house: when I begin, I will also make an end. For I have told him that I will judge his house for ever for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not.

Please do not get this wrong in your minds – we should want the correction from the Lord in our lives because it keeps us from serious consequences which we bring on our selves.

Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

Do you want the peace of God to rule in your heart?

Listen to Him through His Word.
Learn from Him and obey.
Live out your life to His glory.
Thank Him because He loves us enough to correct us.

Letter to the Hebrews Message 29

Hebrews Chapter Twelve is introduced by two exhortations to the believers in order for them to accomplish God’s purpose in their lives. There was an –

A. Exhortation to Fearlessness. 10:19-39

They were called to remain –

1. Confident. 10:35
2. Patient. 10:36,37
3. Faithful. 10:38,39 This led directly to the –

B. Exhortation to Faithfulness. 11:1-40 Today knowing the exhortations to fearlessness and faithfulness, we are prepared to receive the –

C. Exhortation to Fortitude. 12:1-11 courage, strength, perseverance. Because of –

1. Their Fellowship. 12:1-3
(Fortitude to run the race)

a. The Participants. 12:1a …great cloud of witnesses…” These are not spectators (theata), but are those that have finished their course and are a testimony to others, (marturon). They have run the race, finished their course, and are watching how we run. We need to understand that this race is not a marathon, but a relay race. We are part of a team and are responsible to complete our race while including and encouraging others to continue after us – handing off the baton to keep the race going.

We are instructed to prepare ourselves to run the race .

b. The Preparation. 12:1b To put away –

1). Encumbrances. Weights Refer to –

1 Corinthians 9:25-26 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: (His punches are thrown carefully in order to hit the mark)

2 Timothy 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

2). Entrapments. 12:1c “…and the sin…” Refer to –

1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

2 Timothy 2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the Devil, who are taken captive by him at his will”

Do not be deceived, the Devilis close by and is paying attention to you –

James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

If we are to run this race well, we must not let Satan send us on a detour, but we must stay close to the Lord –

James 4:7-8 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

c. The Pace. 12:1d Practical guide to long distance runners.

1). Stay focused. “…let us run…” To keep on running
2). Maintain good form. “…with patience…”
3). Know the course. “…the race that is set before us…”

d. The Purpose. 12:2,3 We must follow –

1). The pattern. 12:2,3 Refer to –

Isaiah 50:6 I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.

He ran alone at times, never stopping even when we stopped –

Isaiah 53:3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

Philippians 2:6-8 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Jesus sets the pace for each one of us and we should follow Him!

We should seek –

2). The Prize. “The Joy…”
“…and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

John 17:4-5 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.

John 17:13 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

How, by looking unto Jesus – to finish as He finished!

2 Timothy 4:6-8 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

The Exhortation to fortitude because of –

2. Their Future. 12:4 “…not yet resisted unto blood…”
(Fortitude to face the opponent)

We may ask ourselves, do I have the fearlessness, faith, and fortitude to be the witness for the Lord Jesus Christ now, at this time?

What have I done, and – I have not even had to resist unto blood!

I do not know what I will do when the time comes, but I know what I would like to believe I would do.
Will you pray for us, that we will be fearless, faithful, and finish our course with joy?
Will you pray for each other?
Will you pray for yourself?
Remember the Lord, the death, burial, and resurrection! Victory in Jesus.