Hebrews
The Glorious Jesus
The Glory of the Church of Christ
The Church of Christ is Holy - Part 2
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is a continuation of the type of people who make up the church which is the Body of Christ. Of special note is the lifestyle expected of those in the church and some final thoughts on holy living.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Understand the holy lifestyle expected of those in the Body of Christ.
- Feel: Recognize the impact of our faithfulness on ourselves and others.
- Do: Strive to live faithfully according to God’s will.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as "right or wrong" responses.
Hebrews 12 states the importance of living holy and faithfully as God's people by pointing to Jesus and emphasizing 3 key concepts:
- Remaining faithful
- Avoiding conflict and immorality that could cause fellow Christians to lose faith
- Expressing gratitude to God for our salvation
In Chapter 13, the writer provides more specific examples of what holy and faithful living looks like.
Answers will vary. Look for examples which apply the concepts taught by Jesus and the apostles. More than likely, general concepts such as love and showing compassion will provided. If not provided, follow-up this question by asking for specific ways to implement these concepts.
The core characteristic of Jesus' disciples is love (John 13:35). We certainly show love to fellow Christians, but when we express this through hospitality to strangers (others), we continue to show Christ through our actions.
God will judge them. This indicates, as in other scriptures (I Corinthians 6:9-11; 18; I Thessalonians 4:3-5; Colossians 3:5), that sexual immorality is not tolerated by God and will result in punishment.
This is a way to show our faith, the assurance that God will provide for our needs. While there is nothing wrong with possessing things, if that becomes our priority and we don't use what God provides to glorify Him, then we are susceptible to practicing a form of idolatry (letting something of greater value come between ourselves and God).
Remember those who brought you to faith. Remembering is another way of showing honor and appreciation to those who taught us about Christ.
Consider their teaching versus false doctrine. Warnings about false doctrine have been a concern from the beginning. Recall that the purpose of this epistle was as a warning against returning to Judaism, or some form of Law-keeping as a way to salvation. It is a false to suggest that Judaism, or any other form of religion, is superior to Christianity.
Obey present teachers. We belong to a community of believers who are led by Godly men such as elders, teachers and evangelists. They help us to remain faithful (Ephesians 4:11-12; I Peter 5:5; I Timothy 5:17).
Note: Although God's word specifies leadership roles are fulfilled by men, we also honor the women in our lives who teach and encourage us. Leadership, no matter the gender of a person, is described as the ability to influence. The faithful women among us influence us to honor God through our faithfulness.
See the outline associated text for this question.
Our Lord does not demand perfection, but He does demand faithfulness. We strive for perfection using Jesus Christ as our standard. As we are faithful, God continues to forgive our sins and satisfy our thirst for righteousness through Christ, our Lord, Amen.