In these verses, the author of Hebrews elaborates on a statement he made at the very beginning of his letter and the title chosen for our sermon series; that “after making purification for sins, he (Jesus) sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high”. Let’s examine this incredible truth claim concerning Christ and understand its impact on those who identify Him as Savior and Lord!!!
Chris
The following guide is a resource for your personal time of abiding with the Lord and for your Community Group when you meet. It can also be used for times with family or friends around the table.
DISCOVER [ Hebrews 10:11-18 ]
WHAT is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that I/we learn?
(Use the questions to help make additional observations about the passage to clarify the main point)
11 And every priest stands daily at his service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. 14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified. 15 And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying, 16 “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts, and write them on their minds,” 17 then he adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”18 Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.
+ Compare and contrast the work of the priests to the work of Christ. If the work of the priests was so ineffective, why did God so painstakingly establish their rituals in the books of Deuteronomy and Leviticus?
+ Why is it significant that the author of Hebrews says that Jesus sits at the right hand of God? (Read Psalm 48:10, Mark 14:61-65 and Acts 7:54-60)
+ Who are Christ’s enemies and what does it mean that they will be made a footstool for his feet? How does that make you feel?
+ What does it mean in verse 14 that Jesus’ offering of Himself “has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified”? (Note that this is written in the past tense)!!! How does that make you feel?
+ Verses 15-16 are from Jeremiah 31 and were quoted back in chapter 8. Why does he bring it up again here?
HOW is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?
(Below are a couple of ideas to help prompt responses if needed)
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
WHO am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?
(e.g., spend time with them, set-up an intentional time to share your story, begin a discovery study on the teachings of Jesus with them)
+ What is my next step?
Study Notes:
From the Enduring Word Bible Commentary on Hebrews 10:
In contrast, the seated posture of Jesus is important. It shows that His work is finished. He doesn’t need to stand ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices as priests under the Old Covenant had to. Jesus still ministers in heaven – He has a ministry of intercession for His people. But that ministry flows from His completed work, so He can adopt a posture of rest – He sat down at the right hand of God!!!