Hebrews 7:11–19 (NKJV) In this passage, the writer of Hebrews suggests the reason for a new priesthood. If the Levitical priesthood was complete (perfect), then why would the world need a new priest after the order of Melchizedek? The answer is, as always, bound up in Christ. 11 Therefore, if perfection were through the Levitical priesthood … Continue reading A Better Hope
In the Valley He Restores My Soul
SUNDAY, JANUARY 17th, 10:30 AM SERVICE Examples of Mountain Top Experiences Moses Meeting with God on the Mountain Exodus 19:20 (NKJV) Then the Lord came down upon Mount Sinai, on the top of the mountain. And the Lord called Moses to the top of the mountain, and Moses went up. David Worshipping on the Mountain … Continue reading In the Valley He Restores My Soul
Melchizedek
Hebrews 7:1–10 (NKJV) By the beginning of chapter seven, the writer of Hebrews has been alluding to the priest Melchizedek for some time. He compares Christ (our great High Priest) to Melchizedek often in the lead up to this chapter. In this passage, he finally begins to make clear the reasons why the comparison works. … Continue reading Melchizedek
An Anchor of the Soul
Hebrews 6:13–20 (NKJV) While the author of Hebrews has been calling the people of God in Christ to dedicated discipleship and service to God, he now gives them a reason to believe the promises of God. He refers back to Abraham, and then applies the blessing of God upon Abraham to the followers of Christ … Continue reading An Anchor of the Soul
Let’s Get Serious
Hebrews 6:1–12 (NKJV) The writer of Hebrews addresses the need for spiritual growth and maturity in this passage. He calls the reader to move on from the discussion of basic thoughts regarding faith. He addresses desired results of growth and the undesirable punishment for those who refuse to mature in the faith. 1 Therefore, leaving … Continue reading Let’s Get Serious
Got Milk?
Hebrews 5:12–14 (NKJV) The author of Hebrews introduced the reader to the Great High Priest, Jesus Christ, in the last passage. He also characterizes His priesthood as "according to the order of Melchizedek." This passage today is an aside of sorts, as it addresses the statement near the end of yesterday's passage in more detail, … Continue reading Got Milk?
A Priest Forever
Hebrews 5:1–11 (NKJV) The discussion from our last passage concerned Jesus being our great High Priest, far greater than an earthly high priest. However, this passage today helps us understand the concept even more fully, beginning with the role and responsibilities of the earthly high priest. 1 For every high priest taken from among men … Continue reading A Priest Forever
Powerful Word
Hebrews 4:11–16 (NKJV) After lifting up the poor example of the faithless Israelites who died in the wilderness—never reaching the rest (land) promised to Abraham and all their ancestors—, the writer to the Hebrews changes course to a degree, with a parting advisory to fight hard to enter that rest of God. He then segues … Continue reading Powerful Word
Promise of Rest
Hebrews 4:1–10 (NKJV) After a few passages discussing the failures of Israel in the wilderness, the writer here turns to a more hopeful message. He has warned against disobedience and rebellion, and has enumerated the consequences (death, no promised land, no rest). But now he says “a promise remains.” There is hope, and the remedy … Continue reading Promise of Rest
Failure Leads to Wilderness Wanderings
Hebrews 3:16–19 (NKJV) The failures of the children of Israel are well-documented throughout their history, even though they were considered God's Chosen People. One of their greatest failures was their lack of faith to believe that God would deliver the promised land into their hands. Spies went in the see the land and came back … Continue reading Failure Leads to Wilderness Wanderings
