Today's passage closes out Hebrews and our Then God Sat Down series. Through Hebrews, we've been encouraged, exhorted, admonished, and challenged in so many ways. Even in the last few sentences, the Holy Spirit through the author is still prodding us forward: toward continued prayer, toward a clear conscience, and to be more fully equipped for the work God has laid out for us.
Let the word of God continue to inspire you daily to continue to make progress in leading a life that is more honoring of God and beneficial for your brothers and sisters and the world that so desperately needs the love we have to share.
Luke
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 13:18-25 ]
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)
18 Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things. 19 I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner. 20 Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, 21 equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. 22 I appeal to you, brothers, bear with my word of exhortation, for I have written to you briefly. 23 You should know that our brother Timothy has been released, with whom I shall see you if he comes soon. 24 Greet all your leaders and all the saints. Those who come from Italy send you greetings. 25 Grace be with all of you.
+ What did the author ask for prayer for? [v18]
+ What was the author asking for "more earnestly," and what would be brought about if the readers followed through on his request? [v19]
+ What is God listed as a God of in [v20]?
+ What does v20 teach us about Jesus?
+ What will the same God who overcame death do for us? For what purpose? [v21]
+ What does the author ask for his readership to do? [v22]
+ Who is Timothy according to this passage? [v23]
+ Who all are listed in the "shout out" section in this passage? [v24-25]
+ What message to the author close with in [v25]?
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?
+ A clear conscience, acting honorably in all things, and doing God's will is only possible through God's power. However, since this passage indicates, we must be active in the pursuit of these things.
+ Where do you not have a clear conscience and need to repent?
+ Where are you not acting honorably and need to change your behavior?
+ Where are you in need of greater equipping, and with whom can you partner to be so equipped?
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?
+ Giving glory to God is not an individual action. The whole of Hebrews is a brother vivifying his brothers and sisters with God's message. We all have an active role to play in reaching others with God's love.
+ What brothers or sisters are you partnering with in this mission? How can you encourage/exhort/admonish/encourage them in living a life that honors God?
+ Who are the lost whom you are actively pursuing? What steps will you take this weekend or next week, in the power of God, to share His love with them?