The Believer's Privileges and Responsibilities
Connect with Jesus Christ, and you’ll have privileges and responsibilities that make living life together worthwhile.
Hebrews 10:19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Sermon Discussion
- Read Hebrews 10:14. Reflect on the phrase “perfected for all time.” (NASB)
What does that mean? How does that truth make you feel? What impact does it have upon you? - Spend a few minutes in quiet thought about your spiritual privileges, reflecting upon:
- How confident am I about my continual access to Abba? Do I ever stay away from Him in fear of His anger/judgment for my sinful failures?
- How confident am I about Jesus’ continual representation as my Advocate before Abba? Do I ever let shame for my sin and brokenness keep me from accepting and enjoying His forgiveness? Can I be honest with Him or do I hold back in fear of rejection?
- After reflecting, do you have anything you’d like to share with your group?
- What other words/phrases would you use to define “draw near?” (10:22) What does that look like practically this next week? Is your faith strong/weak/a little of both right now? How does that impact your “drawing near?” Can you do that honestly or will it be a struggle?
- What opposition might you face this next week that will challenge “holding fast your hope” in Jesus? What past evidence of Abba’s faithfulness will help you today? Share with the group an example of it and how it helped you.
- Who has helped “stir up” your desire for doing good deeds for others? Give a few examples. What are some ways you can encourage those around you this next week?
- Reflect on this question: Am I doing life together with those from OCC? Why would you answer the way you did? Are you happy/content with where you’re at?