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Romans 13 Message Three

Review Romans Chapter 12

I. The believer should surrender self to God. 12:1-5
A. His body surrendered in service. 12:1

Note about sacrifice and offerings –

Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

We cannot simply enter into the presence of God on our own merit as Cain did and expect favour from God. Faith brings forth favour.

Begin with Genesis 4:1-4 and compare with Hebrews 11:4 Faith is the key!

Faith brings for respect for God –

Sanctification understood: Genesis 35:1-7
Sanctification again enjoined: Exodus 19:14-16
Sanctification seen in Job 1

Note the sacrifices under the Law as set forth in Leviticus –

Burnt offering – atonement
Meat offering – consecration
Peace offering – appreciation
Sin offering – atonement and forgiveness
Trespass offering –

The difference between the Trespass and the Sin offering was that in the Sin offering for the priest and the congregation, the blood was taken into the Tabernacle and sprinkled before the veil. This was never a part of the Trespass offering.

Note that these offerings were given in faith, not to acquire faith.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

The sacrifice is given over wholly to God and not taken back.

“…present your bodies a living sacrifice…which is your reasonable service.”

B. His mind surrendered in study. 12:2
C. His being surrendered to the body. 12:3-5

II. The believer should serve God. 12:6-21
We noted the –

A. Features of the body. A living organism.
B. Functions of the body. Gifts to one another at the direction of God.
C. Faithful service in the body. Edification, building one another up in the truth of God’s Word.
D. Future of the body.

Ephesians 5:27 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

In chapter 13 we have learned of the lives of both –

I. Dutiful subjects Romans 13:1-7 Obeying governments
II. Devoted friends Romans 13:8-10 Indebted to love one another.

As an overview of chapter Romans 12 up to chapter 13:11, we see that when we give ourselves unto God as living sacrifices, we begin to transform from who we were to who we are in Him. We begin to learn of God and His will. We begin to submit to the things that we have learned, being baptized, becoming members of His church. He places us into the membership of this church as it pleases Him. We give ourselves unto Him and He gives us as gifts to one another to help one another to be built up into a spiritual household.
As we grow in the knowledge of the truth in Him through His Word, we are instructed that we do not live unto ourselves. While we are not of this world any more, we still are in this world and are to live our lives to the praise of His glory. Our testimony in this world is that we put God first in all things, loving Him and loving others through Him.
We are taught that the Commandments of God hold no fear for us because when we love Him first, we would never consider breaking His laws. Since “love worketh no ill to his neighbor…” the Law has no reason to condemn us. We often begin our life with God through duty, doing what we know is right, and then we learn that the life of devotion is where the joy of life is.
We recognize that our time in this life is passing by quickly. We do not have time to waste on the things of this world. Therefore we should be –

III. Disciplined servants Romans 13:11-14

The theme repeated to the churches –

Ephesians 4:22-24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Ephesians 5:14-16 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Colossians 3:1-7 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.

We have responsibilities as the children of God in our response to –

A. The call to awake. Romans 13:11 “…time to awake out of sleep…”
B. The call to arms. Romans 13:12 “…the amour of light.”
C. The call to holiness. Romans 13:13,14 “…let us walk honestly…”

Submission to the Lord “… a living sacrifice…” prepares the believer to stand in peace before the judgment seat of Christ, giving glory to God for all that He has done in our lives.

2 Timothy 4:8 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.

Romans chapter 13 Message One

Remember –

Romans 12:18-19 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

The establishment of government by God –

Genesis 9:5-6 And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man’s brother will I require the life of man. Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

I. Dutiful subjects Romans 13:1-7

Introduce with Jesus instruction on the matter –

Matthew 22:17-21 Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.

A. Civil government’s authority. Romans 13:1-4

1. Jesus and Government. Note Governor Pilate’s interaction with Jesus –

John 19:10-11 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.

Jesus had been travelling throughout Israel for over three years and the Roman government had no quarrel with Him at any time. Jesus stood in the government court because of the complaint of the Jewish religious leaders. Pilate had Jesus executed in order to protect his own position as Governor.

John 19:12-13 And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar’s friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha.

2. Paul and government.

Governments generally had no interest in the activities of Christians as long as they were not believed to be dangerous to those in power. At times the Jews complained about the Christians and the government acted to appease them, as in the case of the death of the Apostle James and the arrest of the Apostle Peter by King Herod in Acts 12.

Herod Agrippa I was an Idumean through his grandfather Herod the Great and a grandson of Mariamne the Maccabean princess. He was a favourite of Caligula the Roman Emperor and was anxious to placate his Jewish subjects while retaining the favour of the Romans. So he built theatres and held games for the Romans and Greeks and slew the Christians to please the Jews. Josephus (Ant. XIX. 7, 3) calls him a pleasant vain man scrupulously observing Jewish rites. Here we have for the first time political power (after Pilate) used against the disciples. Robertson

At other times the government aided the church –

a. Intervention –

1). The Governor of Corinth

Paul was brought to the court of the governor in Corinth –

Acts 18:12-16 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat, Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law. And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you: But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters. And he drave them from the judgment seat.

2). The Governor of Palestine.

a). Saved by the Centurion in Jerusalem –

Acts 21:31-33 And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul. Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.

b). Sent to Governor Felix for trial –

Acts 23:24 And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.

b. Invention. Emperor Nero called for the arrest and execution of Paul in order to distract the Roman people from accusing Nero of misconduct.

2 Timothy 4:6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

B. Christian’s acceptable compliance.

Romans 13:5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

1. Compliance by fear is normal.
2. Compliance by faith is blessed.
Remember: The believer’s primary allegiance is to God.

Daniel 1:8-12 But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king. Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.
C. Confirmation of subjection.

Follow the instruction of the Lord as noted in the introduction –
Romans 13:6-7 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Norman Geisler set forth the following guidelines of disobedience –

1. When the government prohibits the worship of God (Exodus 5:1).
2. When it requires the taking of innocent life (Exod 1:15–21).
3. When it demands killing of God’s servants (1 Kings 18:1–4).
4. When it requires the worship of idols (Dan 3:1–7).
5. When it commands prayer to a man (Dan 6:6–9).
6. When it prohibits the propagation of the gospel (Acts 4:17–20).
7. When it demands the worship of a man as God (Rev 13:4, 8).

The best course for believers is to know God’s Word, seek His wisdom, and follow His leadership. Trust Him.

Message Two

We have studied the responsibility of –

I. Dutiful subjects. Tonight we turn to –

II. Devoted friends Romans 13:8-10

A. Fulfill financial obligations. Romans 13:8a We are under obligation to God and the lender to fulfil contract paying principle and interest.

As we have noted, the citizen is indebted to the government, but also –

1. The borrower is indebted to the creditor. Notice the desperation indebtedness can create –

Nehemiah 5:2-5 For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many: therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live. Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth. There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king’s tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards. Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought unto bondage already: neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and vineyards.

God ordained the release of debt to protect the people from unscrupulous citizens –

Leviticus 25:39-41 And if thy brother that dwelleth by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant: But as an hired servant, and as a sojourner, he shall be with thee, and shall serve thee unto the year of jubile: And then shall he depart from thee, both he and his children with him, and shall return unto his own family, and unto the possession of his fathers shall he return.

Indebtedness is at times necessary, but we must be very careful in the planning and use of our finances.

2. The employer is indebted to the employee.

James wrote of those who do not pay their rightful debts –

James 5:4 Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.

Referring to God’s standard in the Law –

Deuteronomy 24:14-15 Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of thy brethren, or of thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates: At his day thou shalt give him his hire, neither shall the sun go down upon it; for he is poor, and setteth his heart upon it: lest he cry against thee unto the LORD, and it be sin unto thee.

Financial indebtedness may lead to ill will. The following indebtedness leads to good will –

B. Fulfill love’s obligations. Romans 13:8b – 10 Under obligation to God an eternal debt.

Paul reminded them of the Commandments. The commands listed in verse 9 are based on the commands that we are to have no other Gods before Him and that we worship only Him –

Exodus 20:1-11 And God spake all these words, saying, I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

Paul wrote of submission to authority in verses 1 through 7 which we do when we are submitted to Him. When we love Him above all things, we are also ready to love those around us.

Matthew 22:36-40 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

We will note four things about this love. It is –

1. Inexplicable. Why would you love me/them?

a. Peter’s response –

Luke 5:8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

b. Pharisee’s response –

Mark 2:16-17 And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners? When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

This love is understood only when we know that it must be –

2. Intentional.

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

3. International. “Go ye into all the world…”

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

4. Infinite. Begins at salvation and continues eternally.
1 Corinthians 13:8 “Charity never fails…”.

Should we consider the obligations before us in the light of duty or devotion?
Let’s illustrate this with the account of Jesus resting in the home of Martha of Bethany. In this household we are introduced to Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. Lazarus of course was the man that became sick unto death and Jesus called him back to life. Martha and Mary were very typical sisters.
They were alike in many ways – Remember following the death of Lazarus, Martha met Jesus as he approached the town, and then Mary went out to meet Him. They both said exactly the same thing “ Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.…”.
They were quite different in other ways. As Jesus was in the house, Martha is in the kitchen preparing a meal for the guest. Mary was in the room, sitting at the feet of Jesus listening to the Word being taught. Both were serving the Lord, one out of duty, one out of devotion. If Martha had been serving out of devotion, her labour would have been full of joy. She could have been serving in devotion, just thinking how each thing she did was for her Saviour.
Martha’s service had become about her and how she looked in the ministry. She wanted her sister to come and serve her as she served the Lord.
When we love God, everything we do will be satisfying. Do you think Martha enjoyed the meal? It had become bitter to her.

“If ye love me, keep my commandments” Is our labour duty or devotion, a blessing or is it bitter?

We never pay off our debt to love to God and to one another!

Psalm 4 Stand in Awe!
It is considered that Psalm 3 and Psalm 4 were written at the same time by King David referring to the rebellion of his son Absalom. King David faced opposition from the time he was a teenager. God anointed Him to be king while another king was still on the throne. David spent many years of his life just trying to stay alive – to not be killed by King Saul. Finally David became King of Israel, but even then he was surrounded by countries that wanted to destroy him and take over the nation. Through all of these troubles, David prayed to God and asked God to lead him and establish the nation. God blessed in all of this and David remembered how good God always was to him. He had made mistakes in his life, as we all do, and he confessed them to God and asked forgiveness. At the time of the writing of this psalm, David is an older man. He found himself taken completely by surprise at the danger he faced – his own son, Absalom, turned on him and was trying to kill him and take over the kingdom. David was not sure of who he could trust, his son and some of those that had been his friends had turned on him. The one person that David knew that he could trust and that he could depend on is the One to whom he called – “Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness…”. He had learned throughout his life that God is faithful, always faithful, and he, as well as we, should walk close to Him and keep our eyes on Him! We will look at this psalm today in four divisions.

I. Turn to the Lord first! Psalm 4:1

David presented himself before God “Hear me when I call…” and submitted his petition and his prayer.

A. His petition was not based on who he was. For example “I am David, the King of Israel”

B. His petition was not based on what he was. “I am good and followed your will”.

C. His petition was based only on what God had done in David’s life. “O God of my righteousness…”

David knew very well that all of his own righteousness before the Lord are as the Prophet Isaiah declared “…But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags…”. He came before the Holy God as a repentant sinner who had in faith trusted God and God had declared David righteous. God had given David, as he does each of us who have trusted Him by faith, the invitation to come to Him and find help in the time of trouble. God had done this in the past – “…thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress…”. At times when David had no place to go, he was pushed into a corner, enclosed in a box, trapped in a small space with no place to God, God blessed him and enlarged him, made him bigger than the situation and gave him a way of escape. He believed that God would help him again and answer his prayer.

II. Tribulation and trouble will come from the world. Psalm 4:2

A. The accusations from the enemies. “…how long will ye turn my glory into shame?”

B. The actions of the enemies. They have placed things that are worthless (vanity) and empty of truth (leasing) above the Lord, His Word, and His will.

Live a life that will please God and see if those around you do not laugh at you, make jokes about you, call you names and tell others how foolish you are.

Just tell those that invite you to go and drink alcohol that you do not drink it because God says that it is not wise to do so – and you want to be wise.

Tell your friends that men should be men and women should be women. They should live to please God and not be ashamed.

Tell your friends that you believe in dressing modestly and that you are going to keep yourself pure before the Lord and only have a special relationship with the one that you marry.

Tell your friends that you do not lend your handphones, tablets, and laptops to the Devil for his use to corrupt your lives.

Peter warned us about what they would say –

1 Peter 4:4 Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:H

Human nature does not change, these people are still the same today. How was King David expecting to have the victory over the attack of the world? He told us that we should do the same thing that he was doing –

III. Trust in the Lord and obey Him. Psalm 4:3-5

A. The Delight of His majesty and power.

Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

Isaiah 6:1-3 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.

Revelation 1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

Stand in awe – to tremble, to shake, to quake

B. The Danger – becoming too comfortable in His presence. Get our eyes, our minds, our hearts on the creation instead of the Creator – we put ourselves in danger by getting on the wrong path.
Share illustration of the Grand Canyon in the USA.

When we keep our eyes on God and we behold Him in His perfections, we will both desire to do His will and also be too afraid not to submit to Him and obey Him, trust Him!

IV. Testimony of God is His goodness in our lives. Psalm 4:6-8

Consider another Psalm that David wrote as he had his attention on the Lord – Psalm 23

A. Contentment. His presence and guidance.

Psalm 23:1-3 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

B. Comfort. (need table and chair for illustration)

Psalm 23:4,5 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

C. Confidence.

Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Just imagine Goodness and Mercy following close behind you!

The direction from God –

Isaiah 30:21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

And the protection by God – Mercy

Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Stand up from your table prepared by God and walk away from your enemies with confidence in the Lord –
Walk with Moses, goodness directing him to trust God and mercy protecting him from the enemies behind!
Our prayer brings us to God with confidence because He has declared us righteous in Him and given the invitation to call upon Him. We come boldly, as David did, standing in Awe of God, and realizing His goodness is directing us and His mercy is giving time for His grace to operate in our lives. All of the goodness of God is based in the statement – Stand in Awe! Are your eyes on the Lord today or are they on the world? Do you delight in celebrity or do you delight in the Lord? Are you going to walk in the path of righteousness for His name’s sake this year or are you going to walk in the way of the world?

Will you give yourself to the Lord today?
In salvation?
In submission?
In service?

The Letter to the Hebrews Message Twenty Three
We have learned from the Lord as He led the Apostle Paul to write of the –

II. Exaltation of Christ 1:4 – 10:18 That Jesus is –

A. Superior to the prophets. 1:1-3
B. Superior to the Angels. 1:4-2:18
C. Superior in Administration. 3:1-4:13 (Moses the Example) and that –

D. Christ Superior in Mediation. 4:14 – 10:18 (Aaron and Melchizadec)

1. Because of His qualifications. 4:14-7:25
2. Because of His exaltation. . 7:26 – 8:5 and –
3. Because of His ministration. 8:6-10:18

a. Performed through a better service. 9:1-22

The service which we –

1). Considered. 9:1-7 The Shadow of the True Tabernacle.

(1). The Sanctuary. 9:2-5 The place where God put His name on earth to dwell among His people. Patterned after his home in Heaven.

Today we will see His ministry –

2). Compared. 9:8-14

He taught, by the Tabernacle, that a better service was –

a). Needed. 9:8-10 The Tabernacle on earth was a figure of what was needed, Perfection!

Hebrews 9:8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:

b). Provided. 9:11-14 His entrance was – Acceptable and eternal

Hebrews 9:11-14 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

3). Confirmed – by His death 9:15-22

a). Resulted in – 9:15 Redemption. “…eternal inheritance.”

His death was Required. Without death, the promise could not be –

(1). Accepted. 9:16,17 or –
(2). Executed. 9:22 “…and without shedding of blood is no remission.”

b. Accomplished by a better sacrifice. 9:23-10:18

We rejoice in His sacrifice because His death, burial, and resurrection resulted in

1). His presence in Heaven. 9:23,24

Hebrews 9:24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:

2). His power over sin. “…to put away sin…” 9:25,26
3). His perfect offering. 9:27,28 Never needs to be (nor can be) repeated.

Hebrews 9:27-28 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

And we note that the plan of God was being executed in accordance to –

4). His prophetic fulfillment. 10:1-18

The readers of this letter are taught that –

a) The Law –

(1). Was of limited value. 10:1-6

Hebrews 10:4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.

And therefore it –

(2). Was set aside. 10:7-10

Hebrews 10:9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.

b) The Lord 10:11-17

(1). Satisfied the will of God.

Hebrews 10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
(2). Sealed the New Covenant.

Hebrews 10:17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.

Paul has set forth Jesus of Nazareth, both Lord and Christ, is greater than the Prophets, greater than the Angels, greater than the Law, greater than all.

Philippians 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Founded on this truth of God, the Lord led Paul to turn to an –

III. Exhortation to believers 10:18—13:17 He began with an –

A. Exhortation to Faithfulness. 10:18-39 Pay careful attention!

1. Severity. A Word of Warning. 10:19-25

Paul reminded them of the blessing of salvation, and also the responsibility and accountability that came with the blessing. He wrote of the –

a. Permission we have to come into the presence of God. 10:19,20

“Having therefore…boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus.”

b. Purpose. ‘worship’ 10:21 “…with our high priest…”

c. Preparation – we must know that we are prepared by faith in God through

1). Salvation 10:22a “…let us draw near with a true heart..”
2). Sanctification. 10:22b

d. Perseverance. 10:23 “…holding fast the profession of our faith without wavering…”

e. Practice our faith and provoke others to do the same. 10:24,25

Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Why should we exhort one another to be faithful to God? Because we know the

f. Principles of God do not change. 10:26-31

Paul reminded them of the consequences of willful sin. Their punishment would be –

a. Absolute.

Hebrews 10:26-27 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

Their punishment will be –
b. Appropriate.

Hebrews 10:28-29 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

Their anticipation will be –
c. Agonizing.

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.

Some preach that these verses reveal that a saved person can lose his salvation. This is far from the truth. Paul has already set forth clearly that if a saved person could lose that salvation, Jesus’ death was not sufficient, powerful enough to fulfill His promise – “…I give them unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish…”

Do you believe that Moses is saved? Was he or was he not speaking with Jesus and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration?

Remember that even Moses was judged when he sinned willfully against the Lord!

Oh, that Aaron had been with Moses and advised him to listen carefully to the Words of God when the Israelites were complaining and demanding that Moses give them water.

Oh, that someone, maybe even his servant, Joshua, had encouraged him to pray before acting, to remember how God had blessed so many times before when Moses cried unto God for help!

Oh, that Moses had obeyed God and spoke unto the Rock as God had commanded him instead of hitting the rock with his rod! In his anger at the people, he was being vengeful and smote the rock.

Oh, that Moses had understood that God was using the rock as a type of His Son, the Christ, to show that the nation was blessed when it was smitten once, but His Son would only be smitten once! Never twice!

Moses broke down the illustration that God was giving and now Moses, God’s servant who had spoken to God as a friend spoke to a friend, was judged – “it was a fearful thing to fall into the hand of the living God.”

Can you imagine Moses crying out to God for mercy – to please let him finish his work and lead the nation across the Jordan River and into the Land of Promise. God allowed Moses to see the land of Canaan, but not lead the people into it. Moses took the work of God into his own hands. God warns us “Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense…The Lord shall judge His people…”. Not Moses, not us.

Will you listen to the Lord and follow His commandments?
Have you trusted Him by faith?

The Letter to the Hebrews Message Twenty Two

D. Christ is superior in Mediation. Hebrews 4:14-10:18
Jesus is uniquely qualified to be superior in mediation as our High Priest. He only is worthy!
1. Because of His qualifications. 4:14-7:25
2. Because of His exaltation. . 7:26 – 8:5

The Lord Jesus Christ is the perfect Mediator – “…for such an high priest became us…” He was suited to the need. His Being, Who He is, fulfills all that is needed for the salvation of man.

Last week we considered His Character, crucifixion, and call as the High Priest. We saw –
a. His character described. 7:26 His is –
1). Holy ‘Pure’
2). Harmless ‘without malice’ not looking for a reason to fight
3). Undefiled ‘untainted’, “real, ethical cleanness”
4). Separate from sinners – both in nature and in proximity.
(Sinless Person – the Son of God; Sinless place –
“Made higher than the heavens.”

b. His crucifixion. 7:27 “…he offered up himself…”
c. His call. 7:28 ‘Our perfect High Priest – forever’

And we were reminded of the overarching purpose of the ages is to glorify God.
We noted the satisfaction and of the justice of God through His death.
We noted the provision of salvation by grace through faith.
What learned of His purpose for us, here and now. We were reminded that His purpose in this age of grace – “I will build my church

d. His church.

We learned that as He is our High Priest, we are priest also as revealed by God through the Apostle Peter and are of the Spiritual Household He is building –

1 Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

Today we will be reminded by Paul that man did not create God, but God created man. He was before all things created. He is the beginning, the middle, and the end of all things. He is unchanging, “…the same yesterday, today, and forever…”. Most men are desiring for God to do their will, but we must remember that this is God’s plan and we must obey His will. Is this a bad thing? Look at what Paul writes to the Hebrews and to us about God’s will. He reminds us that God wants us to be with Him. He is the One who created us. He is the One who searches for us. He is the One who desires to live among us.
Paul wrote of our Great High Priest and he wrote of the place of service of the High Priest and the order of priest among men.

In chapter 8 Paul summarized the Position of the Lord Jesus – “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum…A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.
In these first five verses, he wrote of the preeminence Jesus, with His people worshipping on earth and Jesus ministering in Heaven.

He is the Perfect Priest ministering in the Perfect Tabernacle in Heaven, of which the earthly Tabernacle was but a type, a shadow on earth of the true in Heaven.

Hebrews 8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.

The time is coming that we will see the Heavenly Sanctuary, not just a representation, with God accomplishing His purpose to live among His people –

Revelation 21:2-3 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

Christ is superior –

3. Because of His ministering. Hebrews 8:6-10:18

Paul wrote in 8:6-13 that we have a better High Priest and He is ministering to us a better promise, which Paul called a New Covenant. He told them not to look back to the Law when God is minister that which is better! He has fulfilled the Law in Himself and is accomplishing His purpose on earth now –

Do not look back when that which is behind simply led us to that which is better!

Paul then told them to have faith in Christ and His ministry which is –
a. Performed through a better service. Hebrews 9:1-22

Remember at the creation, God created the world, the creatures of the world, and a people to populate the world. He placed the first couple, Adam and Eve, in a garden and there He had fellowship with them: God walking with His people. When Adam and Eve sinned, they lost that fellowship with Him. In order to restore fellowship with God, a sacrifice had to be given. Adam and Eve’s sin brought death into the world. The only answer for that sin is death: the innocent for the guilty. This is the first lesson that God taught Adam –

Genesis 3:21 Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.

He covered their sin with the skin of an animal. The animal was innocent and was killed, shedding its blood to cover their nakedness. Only by the shedding of blood in death would sin be covered and man able to be near unto God. From that time until the time of the Lord Jesus, the offerings were made by the people of God according to His instructions. The individuals would give offerings for their sins and once a year, the High Priest gave an offering for the sin of the people. As these sacrifices were made, the people were reminded of their sin and of God’s holiness. God’s righteousness, holiness, and love were shown through the offerings and His desire to be among His people.

He wrote how God gave them a wonderful picture of His home in Heaven. The plan of the temple on earth is a shadow of that perfect place in Heaven. Think of that, the Light of God shining onto the earth and we can see the design of the Heavenly Tabernacle on here on earth. Each part of the Tabernacle had a purpose in describing sacrifice and the fellowship of man and God.

1). The Sanctuary. 9:2-5

Exodus 25:8 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.

a). The Holy Place – fellowship (Note the furnishings)

We learn from the furnishings in the Tabernacle –

(1). Lampstand, table – service
(2). Shewbread – “The bread laid before Him” – fellowship
(3). Incense – service and fellowship with prayer

b). The Holy of Holies – forgiveness. (Note the significance of the mementos God commanded to be kept in this place)

(1). Golden censer – obedience (Dangerous to invade into the presence of God)
(2). Ark of the Testimony – Relationship (Tables of Law, Manna, Aaron’s Rod)
(3). Mercy Seat – Propitiation. God is satisfied with the offering.

Do you know what this describes? Does this sound familiar to you? Does it remind you of a family home?

The Tabernacle –

You enter through the door because you are a part of the family.
(I am the Door…”
You go by the altar knowing that you can enter the house in peace.
You stop by the Laver and wash your hands and feet, keeping the house clean.
You enter into the front room and feel so welcome and at peace as the light of the candlestick illuminates the room with the bread on the table and the conversation (prayer) offered through the smoke of the incense.
You see the curtain and you know that behind the curtain is the very presence of God above the mercy seat and you can experience the peace of God, knowing you are protected by His presence.

This is the experience of the Hebrews. Paul instructed them and us that this is an illustration of the glorious truth that we in this day of grace have a better position than they did. For all that God provided Israel through the Tabernacle was told to the people by the priest and what was within the veil was told the priest by the High Priest.
We have so much better than they because all believers are priest and can enter into the presence of God at any time and any place. Does this help us understand the promise given in chapter 4 that we can enter boldly into the presence of God to find help in the time of need?

I hope that you when you read of the tabernacle or the Temple, you will not just pass over it as something from Old Testament history. I hope that you see it as the shadow cast from the Light in Heaven of the true Tabernacle, the House of God. Are you looking forward to living in that house forever?

Letter to the Hebrews Message Twenty One
In these chapters, we have been learning of the superiority of Jesus Christ in the Administration of the office of the great High Priest. Paul has written of his office not being of man, nor in the lineage of man, but a special office through a special call of God. In chapter 7:1-19 Paul gave details of the difference in the offices of the Aaronic priesthood and that of Melchisedec. We have already noted these differences and will not go through them again here. What we must see this morning is the description of our wonderful Lord and His ministry unto us. We are given a word picture, a beautiful portrait of our Lord.
Hebrews 7:20-28 And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest: (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:) By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.
1). He has a unique order. 7:1-10
2). He has a perfect order. 7:11-19
3). He has an everlasting order. 7:20-25

We note three things about this order: Established, Everlasting, and Effective.

a). Established by God’s oath. 7:20-22

The Lord Jesus Christ’s office as High Priest will never change – ever! “…made a surety of a better testament.” He is the guarantee of our position before God. As High Priest, He represents man to God and also God to man.

b). Everlasting because of His life. 7:23,24
“…He ever liveth to maketh intercession for them.”

Those that have trusted the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation have everlasting life!

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

John 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 John 2:25 And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.

These promises are guaranteed by the Lord and are –

c). Effective because of His position. 7:25

Look at the blessed description of the Lord –

(1). Power – God the Son “…able to save…”
(2). Perpetuity – “…ever liveth…”
(3). Position – “…he ever liveth to make intercession for them.”

Jesus is uniquely qualified to be superior in mediation. He only is worthy!

2. Because of His exaltation. . 7:26 – 8:5

The Lord Jesus Christ is the perfect Mediator – “…for such an high priest became us…” He was suited to the need. His Being, Who He is, fulfills all that is needed for the salvation of man.

a. His character described. 7:26

Consider the description of the Lord in your minds – Think on Him!

1). Holy ‘Pure’
2). Harmless ‘without malice’ not looking for a reason to fight
3). Undefiled ‘untainted’, “real, ethical cleaness”
4). Separate from sinners – both in nature and in proximity.
(Sinless Person – the Son of God; Sinless place –
“Made higher than the heavens.”

b. His crucifixion. 7:27
c. His call. 7:28 ‘Our perfect High Priest – forever’

This morning as we consider His Character, crucifixion, and call as the High Priest and –

We note the overarching purpose of the ages is to glorify God.
We note the satisfaction and of the justice of God through His death.
We note the provision of salvation by grace through faith.
What does this mean to us this morning as we consider His purpose for us, here and now? We must remember His purpose in this age of grace – “I will build my church…”. Paul spoke of the Lord’s expectations of us in his first letter to Timothy –

“But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.”

We note His ownership in all of these things this morning: His Character, His Crucifixion, His call and now –

d. His church

Now, we rejoice greatly as the portrait of the Lord Jesus Christ is painted before us in these words of Spirit and of Truth.

But, what happens when we are described in words of truth – the Light is shined on us. We may say that we do not want to be in the light, but the fact of the matter is we are.

Refer to –

1 Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

What about our character, crucifixion, and call?
Character – How would those that know us describe us? Christ like character?
Crucifixion –

Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Call – “…a holy priesthood…” to do what” “…To offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”

What are spiritual sacrifices and how do we offer them? We must begin as those in Macedonia did –

2 Corinthians 8:4-5 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.

Following this is praise, prayer, and service unto the Lord.

Do you want to measure yourself this morning?

How much time do you spend in praise of the Lord. How thankful are you?

Are you thankful in everything?

Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

How much time do you spend in prayer?

How much time do you spend in serving?

Philippians 4:18 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

What is my purpose in life? To glorify Him.

D. Christ Superior in Mediation. Hebrews 4:14 – 10:18
(Aaron and Melchizadec)

1. Because of His Qualifications. Hebrews 4:14-7:25

Paul explained –

a. His Priesthood – We learned of His High Priesthood –

1). Declared. 4:14-16
2). Compared. 5:1-10 Paul then exhorted –

b. His People – They were challenged – 5:11-6:20 We noted the –

1). Rebuke. 5:11-14 Paul confronted their –

a). Indifference. 5:11
b). Immaturity. 5:12,13
c). Idleness 5:14 He then –

2). Reproved. Hebrews 6:1-8 Some had not believed.
Some were believing, but not acting. Paul wrote to charge them to be good testimonies to the unbelieving and to convince them that of their salvation they could be –

a). Sure. 6:1-3 The Foundation is sure. We are to –
b). Study. Hebrews 6:1 “…go on to perfection…”
The Word is sufficient.
Standing on the sure foundation and studying the inspired Word of God, we are to be –
c). Steadfast. Hebrews 6:4-8

(1). Explanation. 6:4-6 We know that we are Secure
We learned that if we can lose our salvation, the death of Jesus on the Cross was not powerful enough to save us forever and He would have to die again for us to be saved again!
We also learned that the believer is to have a testimony of salvation among the unbelievers. The evidence should be plain to see!

(2). Illustration 6:7,8 Paul illustrated this security

Concluding with the realization that the blessings of God come upon all, but not all believe and accept the goodness of God.

Knowing that rebuke and reproof is not enough, he began to correct them with this –

3). Exhortation 6:9-20 Paul counseled them to give –

a). Attendance to their salvation. 6:9-12 Spoke to the –

(1). Evidence of their salvation. 6:9

Even though Paul described a dangerous and forbidding landscape caused by unbelief (…though we thus speak…), he was describing the worst condition while expecting the best. Those still in unbelief should be encouraged by the blessings of God upon the believers and, seeing the goodness of God, turn to Him in repentance and faith! He then gave them –

(2). Encouragement in their salvation. 6:10
“…For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love…”

Today we begin by noting the –

(3). Endurance in their salvation. 6:11,12

Paul also exhorted them to consider the –

b). Assurance (of their salvation) 6:13-20 Based on the testimony of –

(1). Familiar example. 6:13-15

(a). The promise given.

Paul referred to the faith of Abraham, reminding the readers of his faith in following God, leaving his home and leading his family to follow the Lord at 75 year of age. (Genesis 12:1,4) They would remember his faith in the birth of Isaac when he was 100 years old and Sarah was 90 (Genesis 21:2,3). They would remember Abraham’s faith in God when at the top of the mountain, he prepared to sacrifice Isaac, his beloved son, to the Lord. They knew of his complete faith in God at this trying time

Genesis 22:7 And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?

Genesis 22:13-14 And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.

Under the most difficult circumstances, Abraham trusted God. Why? Because God is faithful!

(b). The promise realized. 6:15
“…after he patiently endured, he obtained the promise.”

Jesus commended Abraham for his faith, and rebuked the Pharisees for their unbelief! Look at what they had seen, yet they remained in unbelief!

John 8:56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.

How did Abraham see the day of the Lord? He heard the Lord while dwelling in the city of Ur, the city Haran, the land of Canaan that God promised to him and his heritage, the face to face conversation about Lot being in the city of Sodom, the birth of Isaac. Time and time again God was faithful to His promises to Abraham. Abraham had faith that God would do what He promised and seeing these promises extend into the future – he was glad!

The promises of God are sure and just as Abraham believed God, we also should believe Him. Paul reminded them of God’s –

(2). Faithful promise. 6:16-18

(a). God’s confirmation. 6:16-18a Twofold – His promise and His oath.

Paul referred twice in these verses to the immutability of God. The word means ‘unchangeable’. God’s promises are sure. We are assured also by the fact that it is impossible for God to lie. He is truth. It is not that God does not lie, He cannot lie. He is absolutely holy and pure. This two-fold promise refers back to

Hebrews 5:5-6 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

God Himself promised –
His Person –“… the Son of God…” , and His position, “…Thou art a priest for ever…”

In these promises is the –

(b). Believer’s consolation. 6:18b

[1]. Relieved from fear. “…strong consolation…” Because of the –
[2]. Refuge in Him. (Run to Him for safety) and we have –
[3]. Received the promise – “…lay hold upon the hope set before us.”
Everlasting life!
We are to trust God and press forward because of the –

(3). Finished work. 6:19,20

Follow the anchor chain. It does not lead from our spirit and soul across the seas, oceans, and continents, up the road from the coast, just outside the city of Jerusalem to the tomb of Jesus of Nazareth. That tomb is empty! We follow our anchor chain past the heavens, and through the veil into the very Throne Room of God where our Anchor sits at His right hand! The promise of our hope is Him. “…sure and steadfast…”

The Anchor is our Saviour, we being forever connected to the Solid Rock, The Foundation Rock, the Corner Stone…

And on the throne beside Him is Jehovah, God our Father –
Jehovah – Jireh He sees and supplies for our needs before we know them.
Jehovah – Nissi He is our Banner. Calling us to gather around Him.
Jehovah – Shalom His is our Peace
Jehovah – Shammah He is there Dwelling among us
Jehovah – Tsidkenu Our Righteousness.

The Connection is God the Spirit. He lives in us, seals us, protects us, teaches us, leads us, comforts us.

Not a possibility, not a probability, but He is sure and steadfast, just as are His promises –

John 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Are you saved?
Are you faithful to do what you know God’s will is for your life?
Are you trusting Him?
Are you serving?

D. Christ Superior in Mediation. Hebrews 4:14 – 10:18
(Aaron and Melchizadec)

1. Because of His Qualifications. Hebrews 4:14-7:25

Paul explained –

a. His Priesthood – We learned of His High Priesthood –

1). Declared. 4:14-16
2). Compared. 5:1-10 The High Priest –

a). Under Law. 5:1-4
b). Under Grace. 5:5-10 Paul then exhorted –

b. His People – They were challenged – 5:11-6:20

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

1). Rebuke. 5:11-14 Paul confronted their –

a). Indifference. 5:11
b). Immaturity. 5:12,13
c). Idleness 5:14
Not exercising their sense of discernment. Anyone that wants to learn can learn the meaning and application of God’s Word!

He then –

2). Reproved. Hebrews 6:1-8 Some had not believed. Some were believing, but not acting. Paul wrote to charge them to be good testimonies to the unbelieving and to convince them that of their salvation they could be –

a). Sure. 6:1-3 The Foundation is sure. Refer to –

1 Corinthians 3:10,11 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

Now we are to carry out the commission “teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you…” – we are to –

b). Study. Hebrews 6:1 “…go on to perfection…”
The Word is sufficient.