And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.
John 12:32 New Living Translation
The writer of Hebrews holds up Jesus for the world to have a closer look. What to do with Jesus? This is an even more important question than most people realize. This is a timely and essential study. Please join us on a tour of the display and exhibits. The writer of Hebrews raises questions, brings in historical material and challenges the readers. Have your senses ready.
(All services are premiered on Sundays at 10:30 am unless otherwise noted.)
November 22: A Sacrifice of Praise (Hebrews 13:11- 21) Last week we saw the focus of the writer in Chapter 13 was on loving each other. The second focus is on loving God. We are told that the Lord equips and enables us for this privilege. Even so, the acts and actions of praise are described as a sacrifice. We have over these weeks been holding Jesus up on display with the goal of drawing us deeper into worship of the one who is our Lord and Saviour; priest and king.
November 15: Keep on Loving (Hebrews 13:1-10; 20-25) We come to the last chapter of the Letter to the Hebrews and the writer has more to say than his time and space allow for. He gives some quick but very practical parting words. We have seen Jesus on display and we must now respond. The writer begins the chapter with the request, to keep on loving each other.
November 8: Surrounded (Hebrews 12) What does it mean to be surrounded? It depends on who surrounds you, and what their intentions are. To be surrounded by enemies or to be surrounded by friends are two very different things. This passage talks about being surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. We are not alone.
November 1: Will your name be added to the wall of fame? We look at the heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11. Their example is an inspiration to us. This a good time to consider the strength of your own faith. Let’s exercise our faith muscles.
October 25: When life seems to be falling apart do you blame God and move away from him or do you move closer. The invitation of today’s passage is to draw near to God and to each other. In a time of isolation and social distancing this is going to be a challenge.
October 18: New Covenant (Hebrews 8) Sometimes the problem is interior not exterior. The New Covenant that Jesus establishes with us, is not just stronger wording, it is a transformative experience. It brings us into a secure relationship with our Lord.
October 11 – Thanksgiving: Let us be Thankful (Hebrews 12:28-29) This will be a thanksgiving unlike any other you have had. What does giving thanks and getting together with family look like in a pandemic? What of our Thanksgiving worship service? In a world that is unstable, we are receiving a Kingdom that cannot be shaken. Together we gather in gratitude.
October 4: Will Your Anchor Hold? (Hebrews 5:11 – 6: 20) To get to your destination it is important to be going in the right direction. If you are to grow to maturity in Christ, how do you set the correct course? Today’s passage is one of warning and hope. We will find words of encouragement and promise. Jesus, goes before us as our guide.
September 27: Melchizedek (Hebrews 4:14-5:10 & 7) We are introduced to this mysterious king and priest named Melchizedek in Genesis, when he goes out to meet Abraham with some wine and bread. At a time of need you require someone like Melchizedek. In today’s lesson, we learn that Jesus is a high priest in the order of Melchizedek. We will discover together why this is good news. (On Exhibit: Access Pass Card)
September 20: Rest (Hebrews 4:1-13) In the creation story we are told that, “On the seventh day God rested from all his work.” God asked his people to keep the seventh day of the week as a rest and reflection day. It was to be the foretaste of a greater rest to come. You may be looking for a rest. Let’s consider what is on offer. (On Exhibit: Lounge chairs on tropical beach)
September 13: A New Moses? (Hebrews 3) Moses was the man sent by God to lead the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt into a new land where they would be free. God performed dramatic miracles in the sight of all. Even so, this very same people rebelled against God. This story serves as a warning as we strive to follow Jesus, the new Moses. Both employed wood in their rescues. Moses used a shepherd’s staff and Jesus – a cross. The good news is the faithfulness of Jesus. (On exhibit: A shepherd’s staff and a Saviour’s cross)
September 6: Jesus in the Depths (Hebrews 2) One of the remarkable achievements of Jesus is the depths he went to in achieving his purposes. He learned perfection in suffering and death. He left the heights of glory to enter the brokenness of earth. His is a story of riches to rags to glory. It is a journey to join. (On Exhibit: A pair of worn sandals)
August 30: Angels and Jesus (Hebrews 1) There is a lot of attention given to angels, but to whom do the angels give their attention? In the first chapter we are brought before Jesus as would be worshippers. We learn just how worthy Christ is of our honour and praise. Even the angels will join us in reverence of Christ. (On Exhibit: A worshipping angel)