Category: Biblical Reflections

Hebrews 12:3–11 (NKJV) This passage explores the value of discipline or, to use the more archaic word, chastening. The image of corporal punishment comes to mind here, which is not necessarily in vogue in today's vernacular. However, the principle is still clear: discipline from a father or mother exacted on a child provides a needed … Continue reading The Value of Discipline

Hebrews 11:30–12:2 (NKJV) After the prior discussion of the faith of Moses, the writer moves into a summary of the faith stories of many of the Israelite leaders over the next several years of their existence. He speaks of Joshua and several of the judges of Israel, chronicling their faith in God against all odds. … Continue reading A Great Cloud of Witnesses

Hebrews 11:23–29 (NKJV) After a discussion of the Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph), the writer of Hebrews moves to a discussion of Moses, the great prophet and leader of Israel, and his faith. He was unique among Israelites of his day in that he was reared in Pharaoh's palace, and then walked among the Israelites … Continue reading The Faith of Moses

Hebrews 11:17–22 (NKJV) The faith of the Patriarchs is further on display in this passage. While Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were grouped together as heirs of a heavenly promise in the previous passage, their living out of those promises and passing them on is the subject of this passage. 17 By faith Abraham, when he was … Continue reading Faith of the Patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (and Joseph)

Hebrews 11:8–16 (NKJV) After defining faith and lifting up the examples of early patriarchs, Hebrews then begins to discuss the faith of Abraham in believing God for a promised land and a promised son. His and Sarah's faith are put on display here. 8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to … Continue reading Abraham’s Faith

Hebrews 11:1–7 (NKJV) The author of Hebrews ended chapter ten with a quote from Habakkuk that said, "the just shall live by faith." In this chapter, he explains and defines faith, and begins to offer chronological examples of faith. This is a very well-known chapter, often entitled the "hall of faith." 1 Now faith is … Continue reading Faith Is…

Hebrews 10:32–39 (NKJV) The previous passage has discussed the plight of one who had tasted of the grace of God and then went back, renouncing one's faith. That ominous message portended destruction and judgment. This passage, however, gives hope to those who persevere and withstand trouble in order to serve God faithfully. 32 But recall the … Continue reading The Just Shall Live by Faith

Hebrews 10:19–31 (NKJV) Jesus' death paid the price for our sins, once and for all. The previous chapters demonstrate the completed work of Christ for us. The author of Hebrews shows how the sacrificial system of Judaism was incomplete and temporary. Now, Jesus has taken our sins upon Himself, shed His blood, and washed them … Continue reading Hold Fast

Hebrews 10:11–18 (NKJV) This passage speaks to the efficacy of the sacrifice of Christ and His priesthood. The writer of Hebrews just finished a discussion of Christ's superiority to the offerings and sacrifices of the priesthood on earth. Now he turns to the finality and completion of Christ's work. 11 And every priest stands ministering daily … Continue reading One Sacrifice for Sins Forever

Hebrews 10:5–10 (NKJV) After describing the futility of the sacrifices of bulls and goats and describing the plan and purpose of God for Jesus to fulfill, the author now turns toward the prophetic fulfillment of said plan. In Jesus, the first, incomplete form of sacrifice for sin is replaced by the second, complete eternal sacrifice … Continue reading The First is Replaced by the Second