In this passage, the author of Hebrews continues to encourage us to not grow weary “running with endurance the race that is set before us,” (v.1). The author has just called us to recall as an example how Jesus suffered, and to remember that “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you,” (John 15:20). Now the author turns his attention to how God uses suffering, as a form of discipline, to purify us. He ends this passage with a striking image of lame feet healing. We should not be passive endurers of suffering, or we will grow cynical and bitter — our feet will heal improperly and be out of joint. Rather we should “count it all joy when we meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness” (James 1:2-3).
Michael Riggins
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 12:7-13 ]
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)
7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. 12 Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
+ The author calls us “sons.” What does he say separates “sons” from “illegitimate children”?
+ What does the author say we will share in through God’s discipline?
+ What does the author mean by the metaphor of lame feet? What would be “put out of joint” or “healed” here? (v.13)
HOW is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?
(Below are a couple of ideas to help prompt responses if needed)
+ Through divine accountability, what is the Lord calling you to confess of, share with your community, and ask for help and correction in?
+ How does the Gospel of Christ encourage you to continue “running with endurance the race that is set before us? (v. 1)
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?