WEBVTT 00:00:00.320 --> 00:00:03.660 Children, we are ready for Children's Church at this time. 00:00:03.760 --> 00:00:13.240 You may make your way back to Miss Savannah there and then take a right and head to the youth room where they will be for the next few months at least. 00:00:13.240 --> 00:00:21.219 And so again, I'm so thankful that we're able to gather here today. It's a bittersweet time for the summer to be coming to an end. 00:00:21.800 --> 00:00:25.580 For students, it's just bitter, but for parents, it's sweet. 00:00:25.579 --> 00:00:31.939 And so, you know, it's that time of the year where things get back into a little bit more of a routine. 00:00:32.519 --> 00:00:43.500 And we're going to be finishing our study of Hebrews today as we look at this last chapter of Hebrews, reminding ourselves of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. 00:00:44.219 --> 00:00:48.959 Reminding ourselves of what it means to depend on Him, to abide with Him. 00:00:48.960 --> 00:00:58.260 And I'm so thankful that we were able to lead into this final session with that song because ultimately that's what Hebrews is trying to teach us. 00:00:58.260 --> 00:01:07.359 Is that Jesus is better and following Him, depending on Him, abiding in Him is what we are called to do as believers. 00:01:07.920 --> 00:01:14.799 And one of the things that is often difficult to do as believers is to live counterculture to this world. 00:01:15.280 --> 00:01:17.020 Yet that is what we are called to do. 00:01:17.019 --> 00:01:20.659 This is something that it requires us to be intentional with. 00:01:20.939 --> 00:01:24.959 We have to be intentional with our lives to live counterculture to this world. 00:01:25.359 --> 00:01:33.199 But ultimately, it requires us to see God for who He really is and to put others in their proper place. 00:01:33.939 --> 00:01:40.259 Ultimately, it requires us to see God for who He is and to see other people in light of that. 00:01:40.799 --> 00:01:41.739 People are important. 00:01:41.879 --> 00:01:45.179 We are called to love everyone and point them to Christ. 00:01:45.180 --> 00:01:51.340 But we must not let others and culture tell us how to live our lives. 00:01:52.120 --> 00:01:54.260 Ed Welch wrote a book a number of years ago. 00:01:54.420 --> 00:01:58.740 The book is called When People Are Big and God Is Small. 00:01:59.320 --> 00:02:02.680 When we see people as bigger than God. 00:02:03.100 --> 00:02:07.600 And he talks in this book about what the implications are for our lives. 00:02:07.599 --> 00:02:11.939 And in this, he gives reasons why we typically fear people. 00:02:12.159 --> 00:02:18.780 And he gives three basic reasons why we let people have a bigger say in our lives than God does. 00:02:18.799 --> 00:02:19.639 And he says this. 00:02:20.079 --> 00:02:23.879 He says, we fear people because they can expose or humiliate us. 00:02:24.379 --> 00:02:27.659 We fear people because they might say something about us. 00:02:27.699 --> 00:02:33.560 They might have something on us that we're afraid is going to get out and it's just going to ruin everything. 00:02:33.699 --> 00:02:37.000 We fear people because they can expose or humiliate us. 00:02:37.000 --> 00:02:41.620 We fear people because they can reject, ridicule, or despise us. 00:02:42.219 --> 00:02:45.300 We fear people because they may not like us. 00:02:45.319 --> 00:02:46.360 They may reject us. 00:02:46.419 --> 00:02:53.520 And so we let other people begin to shape how we live our lives in hopes that they won't reject us. 00:02:53.780 --> 00:02:57.819 In hopes that they won't ridicule us or despise us. 00:02:58.439 --> 00:03:03.840 And he said, and finally, we fear people because they can attack, oppress, or threaten us. 00:03:03.840 --> 00:03:05.300 Because they can harm us. 00:03:05.379 --> 00:03:07.900 Because they can threaten us. 00:03:08.500 --> 00:03:12.439 Last week, we finished in Hebrews 13, 6. 00:03:12.800 --> 00:03:14.980 Where it says, the Lord is my helper. 00:03:15.379 --> 00:03:16.560 I will not fear. 00:03:17.300 --> 00:03:19.240 What can man do to me? 00:03:20.060 --> 00:03:27.640 And so what we clearly see is that we are called to have a bigger view of God than we do of other people. 00:03:27.639 --> 00:03:35.439 From this, Welch, in my opinion, makes a very accurate reflection, a very accurate statement. 00:03:35.559 --> 00:03:36.299 He says this, 00:03:36.299 --> 00:03:43.019 When we see people as bigger, that is more powerful and significant than God, 00:03:43.819 --> 00:03:50.719 we give other people the power and right to tell us what to feel, what to think, and what to do. 00:03:50.719 --> 00:04:01.960 He says, when we begin to see people that is as bigger, that is more important and more weighty in our lives than God, 00:04:02.020 --> 00:04:07.180 then all of a sudden we give other people the right to tell us how we should feel in certain situations, 00:04:07.360 --> 00:04:09.300 what we should do in certain situations, 00:04:09.300 --> 00:04:14.120 and we give them the authority to tell us what is right and wrong. 00:04:14.439 --> 00:04:17.439 This is what we are called not to do as believers. 00:04:17.439 --> 00:04:24.279 We are to see God for who He truly is and this world in light of who He is. 00:04:25.100 --> 00:04:28.100 In other words, until we see God for who He truly is, 00:04:28.120 --> 00:04:34.120 it will be very difficult for us as believers to live counterculture to this world. 00:04:34.500 --> 00:04:40.699 If we see people as more important to us than God, then we will follow this world and not God. 00:04:41.360 --> 00:04:44.180 Sometimes we may even think we are doing it for good reasons. 00:04:44.839 --> 00:04:45.720 We love people. 00:04:45.720 --> 00:04:49.740 We don't want to offend them, and so we are going to just kind of go along with the flow. 00:04:49.820 --> 00:04:52.680 We are going to let them tell us what is right and wrong. 00:04:53.380 --> 00:04:55.260 And we justified our minds. 00:04:55.340 --> 00:04:57.160 We want to be loving to other people. 00:04:57.240 --> 00:04:58.920 We want to be tolerant to other people. 00:04:59.000 --> 00:05:03.380 We want to do all of these things when the reality and the truth of the matter is 00:05:03.380 --> 00:05:09.100 the most loving thing we can do for a lost and dying world is point them to Christ, 00:05:10.000 --> 00:05:11.340 is point them to truth, 00:05:11.340 --> 00:05:15.160 is point them to those things of God. 00:05:15.720 --> 00:05:19.920 The author is showing us over and over again throughout Hebrews that Jesus is better. 00:05:20.120 --> 00:05:21.980 It's been a constant theme. 00:05:22.100 --> 00:05:26.320 Now he's getting to a point where all of this is coming to a head, 00:05:26.380 --> 00:05:31.360 and he begins telling us some very practical ways that we should live our lives. 00:05:31.360 --> 00:05:36.920 And so as we continue in this final chapter of Hebrews and finishing up Hebrews this morning, 00:05:36.920 --> 00:05:40.460 we are reminded once again that Jesus is better. 00:05:41.139 --> 00:05:46.520 Throughout this letter, the author has shown us that Christ is greater than anything this world has to offer. 00:05:47.199 --> 00:05:51.660 And because of that, our response is to be one of thankfulness and worship. 00:05:52.340 --> 00:05:55.680 But worship is not confined to what we do here on Sunday mornings. 00:05:55.680 --> 00:05:58.560 Worship is what we do with our lives. 00:05:58.639 --> 00:05:59.879 And he's helping us see that. 00:05:59.939 --> 00:06:05.120 Hebrews 13 gives us a picture of what a life focused on Jesus looks like. 00:06:05.680 --> 00:06:09.939 Last week, we talked about these three characteristics of what a, 00:06:10.340 --> 00:06:14.600 the life of a believer and the life of a church that is focused on Christ. 00:06:14.899 --> 00:06:19.319 These three characteristics of a church that is focused on those things, 00:06:19.379 --> 00:06:21.699 of believers that are focused on the things of God. 00:06:21.699 --> 00:06:24.060 We talked about the fact that they love one another. 00:06:24.180 --> 00:06:26.959 We talked about they hold a high view of marriage, 00:06:27.099 --> 00:06:29.360 that they're content with what they have. 00:06:29.839 --> 00:06:36.199 But this week, we're going to continue and seeing more characteristics of the life of a Jesus follower, 00:06:36.819 --> 00:06:40.500 the life of someone who is giving their all to Christ. 00:06:40.659 --> 00:06:42.860 This week, we will continue in this chapter 00:06:42.860 --> 00:06:49.600 and continue to see what it means to live a life that is focused on following Jesus 00:06:49.600 --> 00:06:53.120 and living counterculture to this world. 00:06:53.800 --> 00:06:57.020 And so if you have a copy of God's Word for one last time, 00:06:57.120 --> 00:06:59.639 let's hope, well, one last time for a little while. 00:07:00.000 --> 00:07:03.340 One last time, let's open up to Hebrews chapter 13. 00:07:04.040 --> 00:07:06.400 And let's start reading in verse 7. 00:07:06.840 --> 00:07:08.420 This is what the Word of the Lord says. 00:07:08.480 --> 00:07:09.240 It says this. 00:07:09.240 --> 00:07:39.220 It says, 00:07:39.240 --> 00:08:09.220 It says, 00:08:09.240 --> 00:08:39.240 00:08:39.240 --> 00:09:09.240 00:09:09.240 --> 00:09:13.240 Amen. 00:09:13.240 --> 00:09:29.080 I appeal to you, brothers. 00:09:29.080 --> 00:09:34.800 Bear with my word of exhortation for I have written to you briefly. 00:09:35.460 --> 00:09:38.620 You should know that your brother Timothy has been released, 00:09:38.840 --> 00:09:42.040 with whom I shall see you if he comes soon. 00:09:42.639 --> 00:09:45.300 Greet all of your leaders and all the saints. 00:09:45.820 --> 00:09:48.320 Those who come from Italy send you greetings. 00:09:49.020 --> 00:09:51.660 Grace be with you all. 00:09:52.259 --> 00:09:52.740 Amen. 00:09:52.740 --> 00:10:05.139 To begin with this week, we see that believers and churches with a focus on Jesus will do four things that we see here in these last few verses. 00:10:05.620 --> 00:10:11.379 To begin with, we see that they will remember, follow, and hold their leaders accountable. 00:10:11.379 --> 00:10:16.679 They'll remember, and they'll remember, and they'll hold their leaders accountable. 00:10:17.100 --> 00:10:18.200 I'm going to be honest with you. 00:10:18.740 --> 00:10:20.860 I kind of want somebody else to preach this section. 00:10:21.419 --> 00:10:26.120 I mean, which pastor wants you to, wants to teach, obey your leaders and submit to them? 00:10:26.120 --> 00:10:29.860 That's not exactly something that typically goes over very well. 00:10:29.940 --> 00:10:33.299 But let's be, but let's look at it in the context of this chapter. 00:10:33.879 --> 00:10:39.200 Because in doing so, I think it speaks to and challenges leaders more than anything. 00:10:39.840 --> 00:10:42.960 I think it's going to challenge us as leaders more than anything. 00:10:42.960 --> 00:10:47.980 And so there's this encouragement to challenge leaders, but then to hold them accountable. 00:10:48.139 --> 00:10:54.720 It starts off by saying, it says, remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. 00:10:55.340 --> 00:10:59.780 Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. 00:11:00.660 --> 00:11:08.580 Even though the word church is not used here, it is clear that it is the church leaders that it has in view. 00:11:08.580 --> 00:11:14.980 It doesn't say to merely follow what they say, but it says to consider how they live their lives. 00:11:15.180 --> 00:11:16.580 To take a look at their lives. 00:11:16.639 --> 00:11:20.360 Don't just hear the words that they're saying, but take a look at their lives. 00:11:20.680 --> 00:11:24.000 Of course, church leaders don't get everything right. 00:11:24.440 --> 00:11:28.360 But even in the imperfection, we are called to be an example. 00:11:29.240 --> 00:11:30.900 You say, I don't claim to be perfect. 00:11:31.500 --> 00:11:35.280 I have way too much family in this church to make that claim. 00:11:35.660 --> 00:11:37.460 They would call me out in a hurry. 00:11:37.460 --> 00:11:47.780 But what we see here is I have, we are to recognize, we are to repent of our sin and we're to follow Christ. 00:11:48.460 --> 00:11:50.180 As leaders, we're to set an example. 00:11:50.379 --> 00:11:52.060 When we mess up, we're to recognize that. 00:11:52.120 --> 00:11:53.040 We're to own up to it. 00:11:53.200 --> 00:11:55.000 We're to see that we have messed up. 00:11:55.360 --> 00:11:59.120 We are to repent of that and we are to call to follow Christ. 00:11:59.440 --> 00:12:02.700 It's a beautiful picture of what you see in Psalm 51. 00:12:02.700 --> 00:12:07.320 Where David has messed up in this sin with Bathsheba and he is repenting. 00:12:07.800 --> 00:12:12.680 But he says, Lord, restore to me the joy of my salvation so then I can teach transgressions. 00:12:12.780 --> 00:12:16.220 So then I can get back to following you and what you've called me to do. 00:12:16.259 --> 00:12:17.660 We're to set this example. 00:12:18.379 --> 00:12:21.280 The passage doesn't say to follow them blindly. 00:12:21.279 --> 00:12:29.720 If we as leaders are leading you down a path that is taking you or this church further away from God, 00:12:30.000 --> 00:12:31.259 then don't follow it. 00:12:31.879 --> 00:12:33.299 And don't tolerate it. 00:12:34.379 --> 00:12:38.819 But make sure that we are leading in a way that points to Christ. 00:12:38.959 --> 00:12:42.299 Also, this passage encourages you to pray for your leaders. 00:12:43.159 --> 00:12:48.179 One of the most encouraging things that you can tell me is that you're praying for us. 00:12:48.179 --> 00:12:56.179 There are a number of you in this service and the next service that will on a regular basis tell me that, 00:12:56.379 --> 00:12:58.919 Hey, Pastor, I just want you to know that I'm praying for you. 00:12:59.359 --> 00:13:00.439 I'm praying for you. 00:13:00.599 --> 00:13:02.459 I'm praying for the rest of the staff. 00:13:02.620 --> 00:13:05.019 And they tell me they're doing it on a daily basis. 00:13:05.500 --> 00:13:06.959 That's encouraging to me. 00:13:07.620 --> 00:13:13.399 Because there's so many things about this that we don't know. 00:13:13.819 --> 00:13:14.519 That we have to be. 00:13:14.679 --> 00:13:17.719 That's one of the reasons I love that song that we just said last night. 00:13:17.720 --> 00:13:19.500 Lord, teach us to depend on you. 00:13:19.639 --> 00:13:21.600 I want to depend on you for everything. 00:13:22.300 --> 00:13:24.759 I want to abide in you. 00:13:25.360 --> 00:13:28.800 And one of the things that I've realized in this job is that I can't do this. 00:13:29.080 --> 00:13:31.660 And that I need God. 00:13:31.720 --> 00:13:33.820 In short, I need God to help me with this. 00:13:33.920 --> 00:13:38.980 Prayer is something that I realize now more than ever is something that I depend on. 00:13:38.980 --> 00:13:45.980 Because in this job, you can go from being on the highest of highs of leading somebody to faith in Christ. 00:13:46.200 --> 00:13:49.420 And just in a few moments, get a call and somebody says, 00:13:49.539 --> 00:13:52.300 Hey, something tragic just happened. 00:13:52.820 --> 00:13:54.800 Just lost a dear loved one. 00:13:55.340 --> 00:13:58.379 I'm going through a very difficult season right now. 00:13:58.440 --> 00:13:59.879 And so there's these ups and downs. 00:14:00.120 --> 00:14:02.420 And this is why we need prayer. 00:14:02.500 --> 00:14:03.680 We all need prayer. 00:14:03.679 --> 00:14:07.819 We all have things that we go through in life where we need prayer. 00:14:08.079 --> 00:14:12.979 And what it does very clearly, it shows us that we are depending on God to work. 00:14:13.859 --> 00:14:21.039 The passage is not saying to blindly follow believers into hypocrisy, into pride, into arrogance, or any other sin. 00:14:21.419 --> 00:14:22.739 But pray for them. 00:14:23.359 --> 00:14:28.299 And if they are striving to imitate Christ, follow them in that example. 00:14:28.299 --> 00:14:30.899 Paul, he says, very clearly says, 00:14:31.000 --> 00:14:33.799 As I imitate Christ, imitate me. 00:14:34.539 --> 00:14:37.000 That should be the desire of leaders in the church. 00:14:37.120 --> 00:14:40.539 Imitate Christ so others can follow that lead. 00:14:40.939 --> 00:14:42.559 And so ask the questions. 00:14:43.000 --> 00:14:44.359 Do your leaders follow Christ? 00:14:44.439 --> 00:14:45.539 Do they love Christ? 00:14:45.819 --> 00:14:47.039 Do they love God's Word? 00:14:47.099 --> 00:14:48.759 And do they teach God's Word? 00:14:49.240 --> 00:14:50.199 All of it. 00:14:50.699 --> 00:14:52.439 Mark Dever, in one of his books, 00:14:52.599 --> 00:14:54.079 Nine Marks of a Healthy Church, 00:14:54.139 --> 00:14:57.120 he talks about the first mark of a healthy church. 00:14:57.120 --> 00:14:58.480 And in it, he says this. 00:14:58.940 --> 00:14:59.240 He says, 00:14:59.360 --> 00:15:02.379 The first mark of a healthy church is expository preaching. 00:15:02.820 --> 00:15:04.639 It's not only the first mark. 00:15:04.679 --> 00:15:07.039 It is far and away the most important of them all. 00:15:07.220 --> 00:15:10.500 Because if you get this right, then all of the others should follow. 00:15:10.899 --> 00:15:14.560 In other words, make sure that your leaders teach God's Word. 00:15:14.779 --> 00:15:16.500 That they follow God's Word. 00:15:16.700 --> 00:15:21.120 That they point everyone to understanding and following that in their lives. 00:15:22.519 --> 00:15:24.539 Hold them accountable to God's Word. 00:15:24.539 --> 00:15:27.659 And follow them as they follow Christ. 00:15:28.360 --> 00:15:29.799 But then it goes on and it says, 00:15:30.419 --> 00:15:34.980 Believers in churches with a focus on Jesus will stay focused on Christ. 00:15:35.799 --> 00:15:40.159 Believers in churches who are following Christ will not only follow Him once, 00:15:40.219 --> 00:15:42.159 but they're going to stay focused on that. 00:15:42.419 --> 00:15:44.139 We see this in verses 8 and 9. 00:15:44.639 --> 00:15:44.919 It says, 00:15:44.919 --> 00:16:03.599 If someone were to come up to you and says, 00:16:03.600 --> 00:16:04.460 You know what? 00:16:04.519 --> 00:16:06.720 I just heard this new teaching on Jesus. 00:16:07.159 --> 00:16:08.540 You're not going to believe this. 00:16:08.580 --> 00:16:09.340 You've never heard this. 00:16:09.360 --> 00:16:10.940 The Bible doesn't tell us this. 00:16:11.320 --> 00:16:12.899 You're not going to believe this. 00:16:12.960 --> 00:16:14.420 Then let that be a red flag. 00:16:14.840 --> 00:16:16.399 And quote right here for them. 00:16:16.460 --> 00:16:17.460 Hebrews 13.8. 00:16:17.759 --> 00:16:21.480 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 00:16:22.100 --> 00:16:24.379 There's nothing that is going to change that. 00:16:24.639 --> 00:16:26.759 Christianity, if rightly understood, 00:16:27.159 --> 00:16:30.040 is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 00:16:30.039 --> 00:16:32.879 This is because Jesus does not change. 00:16:32.980 --> 00:16:33.980 And because of this, 00:16:34.120 --> 00:16:38.079 we have a great shepherd to measure everything else by. 00:16:38.319 --> 00:16:40.919 We have a standard to measure truth by. 00:16:41.139 --> 00:16:42.319 We have God's Word. 00:16:42.959 --> 00:16:44.860 If you want to see a church fail, 00:16:45.259 --> 00:16:47.699 then encourage them to step away from Scripture. 00:16:48.699 --> 00:16:52.819 To look to the world around them for truth and morality. 00:16:53.120 --> 00:16:55.139 That is a church that is failing. 00:16:56.019 --> 00:16:57.519 It may not be failing in numbers. 00:16:57.519 --> 00:16:59.639 It may not be failing in membership. 00:17:00.039 --> 00:17:03.719 But if it is failing to stay focused on God's Word, 00:17:03.799 --> 00:17:06.299 then it is failing to be a church. 00:17:07.240 --> 00:17:08.139 It goes on to say, 00:17:08.279 --> 00:17:11.299 Do not be led away by diverse or strange teachings. 00:17:11.859 --> 00:17:15.159 You see, words themselves don't carry authority. 00:17:15.940 --> 00:17:18.379 Simply words themselves don't carry authority. 00:17:18.500 --> 00:17:22.720 The one who speaks the words is what gives the words authority. 00:17:23.259 --> 00:17:25.159 And I think we understand this in many ways. 00:17:25.160 --> 00:17:29.779 I am sure all of us have seen movies or documentaries of things 00:17:29.779 --> 00:17:33.860 where you would see these leaders who are putting a seal on something. 00:17:34.080 --> 00:17:35.960 Where they have written something down. 00:17:36.200 --> 00:17:39.320 And they are wanting to make sure that it gets to the right place. 00:17:39.380 --> 00:17:40.740 And they understand who it comes from. 00:17:40.840 --> 00:17:42.460 And so, after writing a letter, 00:17:42.560 --> 00:17:43.600 they fold it over. 00:17:43.920 --> 00:17:45.200 And then right where it is sealed, 00:17:45.279 --> 00:17:46.740 they pour hot wax on it. 00:17:46.740 --> 00:17:48.819 And then they put their seal on it. 00:17:49.120 --> 00:17:51.900 That's to show where this letter came from. 00:17:52.079 --> 00:17:53.880 That's to show where it came from. 00:17:53.880 --> 00:17:57.160 Because the words themselves don't carry authority 00:17:57.160 --> 00:18:00.880 unless the one who speaks the words has authority. 00:18:01.420 --> 00:18:04.960 And it's the same way when it comes to God's Word. 00:18:05.500 --> 00:18:10.620 2 Timothy 3 tells us that all Scripture is breathed out by God. 00:18:10.619 --> 00:18:15.239 What Paul is reminding Timothy of is the fact that the words of Scripture 00:18:15.239 --> 00:18:17.319 are the very words of God. 00:18:17.439 --> 00:18:18.939 They're breathed out by God. 00:18:19.019 --> 00:18:19.739 They're theonostos. 00:18:19.839 --> 00:18:22.479 They're the very breath of God. 00:18:22.899 --> 00:18:26.119 And that is what gives this authority. 00:18:26.619 --> 00:18:29.059 The words themselves, anybody could type this down, 00:18:29.119 --> 00:18:31.099 but the one who speaks these words, 00:18:31.199 --> 00:18:32.879 the one who dictates this, 00:18:32.919 --> 00:18:35.739 is the one that gives it authority. 00:18:35.740 --> 00:18:40.620 This truth is something that we do not shy away from. 00:18:40.700 --> 00:18:42.759 We don't hide the fact that we believe this. 00:18:43.099 --> 00:18:47.859 Because the authority of these words lies in who said them. 00:18:48.180 --> 00:18:51.620 If we believe that these words are God's words, 00:18:52.160 --> 00:18:54.359 that they're the very breath of God, 00:18:55.000 --> 00:18:58.960 then the fact is that is what gives them authority 00:18:58.960 --> 00:19:01.180 to tell us how to view God. 00:19:01.539 --> 00:19:04.359 That is what gives them the authority to tell us who Jesus is. 00:19:04.359 --> 00:19:07.919 That is what gives them the authority to tell us where salvation is found 00:19:07.919 --> 00:19:10.099 and where it is not found. 00:19:10.819 --> 00:19:13.939 And so may we always keep our eyes fixed on Jesus 00:19:13.939 --> 00:19:18.639 and understand Him in light of what the Bible says about Him. 00:19:19.619 --> 00:19:22.359 Next, we see that believers in churches, 00:19:22.919 --> 00:19:26.379 with a focus on Jesus, will worship the King. 00:19:26.859 --> 00:19:28.659 They will worship the King. 00:19:29.219 --> 00:19:33.000 This is a beautiful picture here for us in verses 10 through 16. 00:19:33.000 --> 00:19:34.019 It says this, 00:19:34.359 --> 00:19:35.359 It says, 00:19:35.359 --> 00:19:40.579 We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. 00:19:41.259 --> 00:19:45.639 For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places 00:19:45.639 --> 00:19:50.799 by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. 00:19:51.199 --> 00:19:56.879 So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through His own blood. 00:19:56.880 --> 00:20:02.040 Therefore, let us go to Him outside the camp and bear the reproach He endured. 00:20:02.600 --> 00:20:07.360 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. 00:20:07.780 --> 00:20:13.480 Through Him, then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God. 00:20:13.840 --> 00:20:17.140 That is, the fruit of lips and acknowledge His name. 00:20:17.500 --> 00:20:20.700 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, 00:20:20.700 --> 00:20:24.240 for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. 00:20:24.640 --> 00:20:28.380 Now, in this passage, there are some things that are a little bit challenging to understand. 00:20:28.860 --> 00:20:34.480 There are some things that different theologians will come down on slightly different places with. 00:20:34.580 --> 00:20:40.620 And so, today, I don't want us to get bogged down on the nuances of what this might be telling us, 00:20:40.619 --> 00:20:45.919 so much so that we miss the big picture of what it actually is telling us. 00:20:46.399 --> 00:20:50.659 And so, I want us to understand it in light of the context of Hebrews as a whole. 00:20:51.159 --> 00:20:55.619 In his study on Hebrews, Leon Morris, he notes this. 00:20:55.699 --> 00:20:56.079 He says, 00:20:56.079 --> 00:21:01.679 The word sin occurs 25 times in this epistle, 00:21:02.299 --> 00:21:07.779 more often than any other New Testament book except for Romans, 00:21:08.019 --> 00:21:10.559 which it appears 48 times in Romans. 00:21:10.619 --> 00:21:15.199 But no other book other than Romans does the word sin appear more. 00:21:15.719 --> 00:21:23.839 The frequency with which the writer refers to it shows that he sees sin as the great barrier between God and man. 00:21:24.359 --> 00:21:30.539 He writes in the glad certainty that that barrier has been demolished. 00:21:30.919 --> 00:21:34.859 The barrier between us and God that sin calls has been demolished. 00:21:34.859 --> 00:21:40.019 Christ has opened up the way to God by taking our sin out of the way. 00:21:40.619 --> 00:21:44.219 There are many ways in which Christ has done this. 00:21:44.519 --> 00:21:46.279 Christ made propitiation for our sins. 00:21:46.339 --> 00:21:48.879 We see that back in chapter 2, verse 17. 00:21:49.059 --> 00:21:51.079 He offered up sacrifices for sins. 00:21:51.500 --> 00:21:53.959 In chapter 10, did away with sin. 00:21:54.039 --> 00:21:55.859 In 9, bore sin. 00:21:56.000 --> 00:21:58.659 In 9, 28, because of what he has done for us, 00:21:58.660 --> 00:22:01.040 there is no longer a sacrifice for sin. 00:22:01.040 --> 00:22:03.300 In chapter 10, verse 18. 00:22:03.840 --> 00:22:07.279 Christ's death is a ransom to set people free from sins. 00:22:07.519 --> 00:22:11.340 Even those sins that they committed in Old Testament days in 9, 15. 00:22:11.920 --> 00:22:17.240 By contrast, the older way could not deal with sin. 00:22:17.240 --> 00:22:21.440 We see this over and over again, especially in chapter 10. 00:22:22.059 --> 00:22:28.680 Clearly, the writer sees the salvation Christ brought about as many-sided. 00:22:29.620 --> 00:22:31.220 Look at sin how you will. 00:22:31.359 --> 00:22:32.900 He's saying, look at sin how you will. 00:22:33.339 --> 00:22:36.960 The Son, Jesus, has dealt with it. 00:22:37.460 --> 00:22:44.079 No matter how you see sin, it has been accomplished on the cross that Jesus has dealt with it. 00:22:44.079 --> 00:22:48.759 These verses here remind us of the sacrifice that Christ made on our behalf. 00:22:49.419 --> 00:22:52.419 This is the heart and soul of Hebrews. 00:22:53.119 --> 00:22:54.079 Jesus is better. 00:22:54.460 --> 00:22:56.720 He is better because he makes a better sacrifice. 00:22:57.379 --> 00:23:00.559 He is better because he makes a better way to the Father. 00:23:01.220 --> 00:23:04.960 Hebrews 10, verses 12 and 14 boldly says, 00:23:05.019 --> 00:23:10.699 He says, but when Christ had offered up for us all time a single sacrifice for sins, 00:23:10.700 --> 00:23:14.120 He sat down at the right hand of God, 00:23:14.720 --> 00:23:20.140 making from that time until his enemies became a footstool for his feet. 00:23:20.480 --> 00:23:27.539 For by a single offering, he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified. 00:23:28.539 --> 00:23:34.279 What beautiful words that remind us that the payment for our sin has been accomplished. 00:23:34.980 --> 00:23:37.000 It's not partially accomplished. 00:23:37.500 --> 00:23:39.400 It's not mostly accomplished. 00:23:39.400 --> 00:23:42.740 Jesus didn't get us a part of the way there. 00:23:42.900 --> 00:23:44.780 He got us to the finish line. 00:23:44.920 --> 00:23:45.900 It is finished. 00:23:46.040 --> 00:23:49.540 It is accomplished, but fully and completely accomplished. 00:23:50.220 --> 00:23:53.200 There is nothing left for us to do. 00:23:53.700 --> 00:24:00.580 We simply receive the gift of grace and love by placing our faith and our trust in him. 00:24:01.440 --> 00:24:03.920 There's a song that we sing a lot of times. 00:24:04.019 --> 00:24:05.660 It's one of Clay's favorite songs. 00:24:05.660 --> 00:24:07.759 So we sing it quite often in both services. 00:24:07.759 --> 00:24:11.019 And it is very quickly becoming one of my favorites. 00:24:11.500 --> 00:24:13.220 It's called All Sufficient Merit. 00:24:13.660 --> 00:24:18.300 And in this song, I wish we had time to read all of the lyrics. 00:24:18.420 --> 00:24:20.840 But we're going to look at the final verse here. 00:24:20.920 --> 00:24:21.660 It says this. 00:24:21.660 --> 00:24:23.320 It says, 00:24:23.319 --> 00:24:42.659 When I stand accepted before the throne of God, I'll gaze upon my Jesus and thank him for the cross. 00:24:42.660 --> 00:24:45.300 Yes, I'll thank you for the cross. 00:24:45.460 --> 00:24:46.360 It is done. 00:24:46.580 --> 00:24:47.660 It is finished. 00:24:48.279 --> 00:24:49.860 No more debt I owe. 00:24:50.300 --> 00:24:51.340 Paid in full. 00:24:51.700 --> 00:24:52.640 All sufficient. 00:24:53.400 --> 00:24:53.880 Merit. 00:24:54.140 --> 00:24:55.620 Now my own. 00:24:56.480 --> 00:24:59.140 Jesus' sacrifice is final. 00:24:59.720 --> 00:25:00.600 It is sufficient. 00:25:00.940 --> 00:25:02.120 It is unsearchable. 00:25:02.460 --> 00:25:03.580 We can't add to it. 00:25:03.820 --> 00:25:05.420 We can't take away from it. 00:25:05.640 --> 00:25:07.500 And so what do we do with it? 00:25:07.720 --> 00:25:09.860 What do we do with this good news? 00:25:09.980 --> 00:25:12.380 What do we do with this understanding? 00:25:12.380 --> 00:25:15.240 Well, verses 15 and 16 very clearly tell us here. 00:25:15.920 --> 00:25:16.200 It says, 00:25:16.440 --> 00:25:20.320 Then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God. 00:25:20.780 --> 00:25:24.260 That is the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. 00:25:24.880 --> 00:25:28.340 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have. 00:25:28.400 --> 00:25:30.960 For such sacrifices are pleasing to God. 00:25:31.340 --> 00:25:32.840 So what do we do with this? 00:25:33.280 --> 00:25:36.140 What do we do with this understanding that Jesus is better? 00:25:36.300 --> 00:25:37.880 That he makes a better way? 00:25:38.040 --> 00:25:40.180 That he's the only one that can save us? 00:25:40.180 --> 00:25:43.440 That he's the only one that can give us hope and salvation? 00:25:43.820 --> 00:25:44.860 Well, we praise him. 00:25:45.000 --> 00:25:46.779 We worship him with our lips. 00:25:46.880 --> 00:25:48.980 We lift up our voice to worship him. 00:25:49.200 --> 00:25:52.320 But don't let it stop at your words, it tells us. 00:25:52.980 --> 00:25:54.320 Worship him with your life. 00:25:54.460 --> 00:25:56.220 With the way that you love your spouse. 00:25:56.340 --> 00:25:57.880 With the way that you love your kids. 00:25:58.140 --> 00:26:00.279 With the way that you love your neighbors. 00:26:00.279 --> 00:26:02.619 The way that you love the co-workers. 00:26:02.740 --> 00:26:03.920 You know, the ones that you like. 00:26:03.980 --> 00:26:07.579 But also the co-workers that you don't necessarily like all the time. 00:26:07.660 --> 00:26:08.259 We all have them. 00:26:08.299 --> 00:26:08.799 I have them. 00:26:09.420 --> 00:26:09.920 I'm joking. 00:26:11.039 --> 00:26:16.059 We all, and so we're to love one another with this love. 00:26:16.299 --> 00:26:18.500 And so we're to worship God with our actions. 00:26:18.619 --> 00:26:20.660 Not just our lips, but with our life. 00:26:20.740 --> 00:26:21.960 With everything we have. 00:26:22.299 --> 00:26:23.660 Worship God with your spending. 00:26:23.819 --> 00:26:24.440 With your giving. 00:26:24.579 --> 00:26:25.960 With how you spend your time. 00:26:25.960 --> 00:26:29.960 Be so amazed at the goodness and grace of God. 00:26:30.079 --> 00:26:35.900 That you can't help but speak and act in a way that worships the true king. 00:26:36.940 --> 00:26:38.840 And so finally, believers in churches. 00:26:39.259 --> 00:26:40.960 With a focus on Jesus. 00:26:41.559 --> 00:26:44.079 Will go with confident grace. 00:26:44.940 --> 00:26:46.960 They will go with confident grace. 00:26:47.079 --> 00:26:49.600 I love how the author finishes this. 00:26:49.680 --> 00:26:49.940 It says, 00:26:49.940 --> 00:26:51.500 Now may the God of peace. 00:26:51.740 --> 00:26:54.819 Who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus. 00:26:54.819 --> 00:26:57.539 The great shepherd of the sheep. 00:26:57.639 --> 00:26:59.419 By the blood of the eternal covenant. 00:26:59.539 --> 00:27:01.859 Equip you with everything good. 00:27:02.299 --> 00:27:04.099 That you may do his will. 00:27:04.480 --> 00:27:05.539 Working in us. 00:27:05.599 --> 00:27:08.139 That which is pleasing in his sight. 00:27:08.240 --> 00:27:09.339 Through Jesus Christ. 00:27:09.500 --> 00:27:13.399 To whom be glory forever and ever. 00:27:13.659 --> 00:27:14.159 Amen. 00:27:15.259 --> 00:27:19.319 We finally arrive at the benediction of this letter. 00:27:20.019 --> 00:27:21.139 One commentator said, 00:27:21.140 --> 00:27:21.460 He said, 00:27:21.460 --> 00:27:26.220 This prayer might be the most beautiful prayer ever uttered by a Christian. 00:27:26.940 --> 00:27:30.240 No doubt this is a beautifully encouraging prayer. 00:27:30.480 --> 00:27:33.860 That declares absolute confidence in God. 00:27:34.259 --> 00:27:38.400 It declares absolute confidence in God that he has done everything for us. 00:27:39.080 --> 00:27:44.040 We confidently know that because of grace we have peace with God. 00:27:44.660 --> 00:27:47.740 We confidently know because of grace we have this peace with God. 00:27:47.740 --> 00:27:52.620 Ephesians 2 reminds us that because of sin it is impossible to please God. 00:27:52.859 --> 00:27:54.500 It is impossible to honor him. 00:27:54.720 --> 00:27:58.059 It is impossible to have a relationship with him. 00:27:58.420 --> 00:28:00.539 In fact, we follow the ways of this world. 00:28:00.660 --> 00:28:01.920 The sons of disobedience. 00:28:02.359 --> 00:28:06.240 And are by nature children of wrath like the rest of mankind. 00:28:07.299 --> 00:28:10.599 This is a condition that has no hope of peace. 00:28:10.599 --> 00:28:21.419 We need Jesus. 00:28:21.779 --> 00:28:25.539 And as believers we have this confident assurance. 00:28:25.719 --> 00:28:29.539 This confident grace that we have peace with God. 00:28:29.839 --> 00:28:34.539 He gives us this by fully taking on himself the full weight of sin. 00:28:34.659 --> 00:28:36.939 The full weight of God's wrath that we deserve. 00:28:37.299 --> 00:28:39.779 And giving us peace with God. 00:28:39.779 --> 00:28:43.119 This is what theologians often call the great exchange. 00:28:43.599 --> 00:28:47.559 Where we give Christ our sin, our shame, our regret. 00:28:48.200 --> 00:28:50.799 And in return he gives us his righteousness. 00:28:51.160 --> 00:28:52.879 He gives us his peace with God. 00:28:53.059 --> 00:28:57.660 He gives us his sonship so that we can look to God and call him father. 00:28:57.960 --> 00:29:00.259 We can be adopted into his family. 00:29:00.700 --> 00:29:03.160 This is the beauty of God's grace. 00:29:03.379 --> 00:29:05.220 That we go from death to life. 00:29:05.220 --> 00:29:08.559 And now because of that we can have peace with God. 00:29:09.039 --> 00:29:14.039 But we confidently know that because of grace we have a good shepherd who cares for us. 00:29:14.160 --> 00:29:16.900 It tells us that we have a shepherd who cares for his sheep. 00:29:17.259 --> 00:29:23.579 As sheep of the good shepherd we have one that cares for us no matter what it is that we're going through in this life. 00:29:23.579 --> 00:29:28.039 We can confidently know that no matter what we are going through. 00:29:28.539 --> 00:29:32.199 That we have a shepherd who is there with us. 00:29:33.139 --> 00:29:39.839 And we confidently know that because of grace we have a loving father who equips us for service. 00:29:39.839 --> 00:29:48.619 He confidently asks God to equip them with everything good so that they can do his will and please him. 00:29:48.879 --> 00:29:51.279 We need God's help to do his will. 00:29:51.500 --> 00:29:53.240 We can't accomplish it on our own. 00:29:53.579 --> 00:29:58.519 We can't try our best to be good enough, to do good enough, to accomplish his will on our own. 00:29:58.519 --> 00:30:10.259 Our aim as Christians ought to be to do that which is pleasing in his sight through Christ Jesus to whom glory to him be glory forever and ever. 00:30:10.579 --> 00:30:11.019 Amen. 00:30:11.680 --> 00:30:15.019 We need God's grace to accomplish all of this. 00:30:15.900 --> 00:30:19.059 The whole book of Hebrews ends with this. 00:30:19.639 --> 00:30:21.900 Grace be with you all. 00:30:22.319 --> 00:30:25.779 What a beautiful way to close out this book. 00:30:25.779 --> 00:30:29.180 The question that we must all ask is this. 00:30:29.859 --> 00:30:32.059 How do you need to receive God's grace today? 00:30:32.599 --> 00:30:35.220 Because we are all in need of God's grace. 00:30:35.779 --> 00:30:39.539 The question becomes though how do we need to receive God's grace today? 00:30:39.899 --> 00:30:42.200 Maybe you need to receive it for the first time. 00:30:42.839 --> 00:30:49.000 Maybe you need to come and give your life to Jesus to say that I'm a sinner and I need your saving grace. 00:30:49.420 --> 00:30:53.359 Maybe you need that peace with God that only Jesus can provide. 00:30:53.359 --> 00:31:00.059 If that's you this morning, then I want to encourage you do not leave here today without giving your life to Jesus. 00:31:00.219 --> 00:31:02.519 Without saying, Lord, I need you. 00:31:02.679 --> 00:31:04.199 I can't do this on my own. 00:31:04.459 --> 00:31:05.299 I need you. 00:31:05.659 --> 00:31:08.339 Give your life to Jesus if that is you today. 00:31:08.779 --> 00:31:13.599 Maybe you need to rest in the fact that you have a good shepherd that cares for you. 00:31:13.599 --> 00:31:24.719 Maybe you're going through some difficult seasons and times in your life and you need to trust that you have a shepherd who is for you and not against you. 00:31:25.179 --> 00:31:28.759 Who is looking out for you and not against you. 00:31:28.819 --> 00:31:35.159 That has not left you but is walking with you and leading you through those difficult times. 00:31:35.160 --> 00:31:39.480 Maybe that's the grace that you need to be depending on today. 00:31:39.960 --> 00:31:41.660 The need to be abiding in today. 00:31:41.779 --> 00:31:45.560 Maybe you need God's grace in equipping you to follow him. 00:31:45.900 --> 00:31:48.300 We all need his grace to save us. 00:31:48.600 --> 00:31:52.560 And we all need his grace to follow him. 00:31:53.160 --> 00:32:01.560 Maybe you need to start following what God has called you to do by reading through his word and realizing that he's called us to all be a part of making disciples. 00:32:01.559 --> 00:32:07.139 And maybe we need to start doing that and our prayer needs to be God equip me for your good work. 00:32:07.419 --> 00:32:08.659 Equip me for this. 00:32:08.980 --> 00:32:10.299 Yes I'm not qualified. 00:32:10.500 --> 00:32:11.039 I'm not. 00:32:11.240 --> 00:32:19.919 I don't have the credentials to do this but you do and you've promised that if I follow you then you're going to equip me to do the work that you've called me to do. 00:32:20.240 --> 00:32:23.019 So maybe that needs to be your prayer today. 00:32:23.940 --> 00:32:24.599 And here's the thing. 00:32:24.700 --> 00:32:26.579 You can respond to God anywhere. 00:32:26.940 --> 00:32:28.519 You can respond to God from your seat. 00:32:28.519 --> 00:32:33.859 You can respond to God as you're reflecting, as you're singing this final song. 00:32:34.759 --> 00:32:41.420 You can respond to this message, to God's word by thinking about it and reflecting on it this afternoon. 00:32:42.359 --> 00:32:43.940 But maybe you want to come this morning. 00:32:44.660 --> 00:32:45.859 Maybe you want to pray with me. 00:32:45.980 --> 00:32:47.879 Maybe you want to pray right here up front. 00:32:49.079 --> 00:32:52.299 What I want to encourage you to do is respond. 00:32:52.299 --> 00:32:58.940 The only thing that I ask and pray is that you don't ignore what God is calling you to do. 00:32:59.819 --> 00:33:00.960 So answer the question. 00:33:01.539 --> 00:33:05.000 How do you need to receive God's grace today? 00:33:05.480 --> 00:33:10.419 Father thank you so very much for who you are, for what you've done for us. 00:33:10.420 --> 00:33:12.640 Lord, I thank you for the book of Hebrews. 00:33:13.240 --> 00:33:17.080 A book that has challenged us in so many ways. 00:33:17.440 --> 00:33:20.759 Caused us to dive deep into what it means to be a follower of you. 00:33:21.039 --> 00:33:26.860 To dive deep into our understanding of the sacrifice that you made for us on the cross. 00:33:27.259 --> 00:33:30.620 But Lord, it's also a book that has encouraged us. 00:33:31.460 --> 00:33:35.220 Encouraged us by the fact that there is no salvation apart from you. 00:33:35.220 --> 00:33:39.440 That you left the glory of heaven, lived a perfect life. 00:33:39.799 --> 00:33:42.559 So that we could have a relationship with you. 00:33:43.339 --> 00:33:46.259 Lord, it's been a book that has challenged us. 00:33:46.440 --> 00:33:47.660 It's encouraged us. 00:33:48.200 --> 00:33:52.420 And it's been a book that is calling us to live faithfully for you. 00:33:52.960 --> 00:33:54.579 So Lord, may we apply it. 00:33:55.400 --> 00:33:56.819 May we hear these words. 00:33:57.600 --> 00:33:59.600 May we read your word. 00:34:00.240 --> 00:34:04.480 Understanding that since you gave it, it carries authority in our life. 00:34:04.480 --> 00:34:07.319 Since you spoke it, we have to listen. 00:34:08.440 --> 00:34:12.059 Since you are the one who gave it, it is truth. 00:34:12.679 --> 00:34:16.280 And so Lord, help us to not only know it, but to apply it. 00:34:17.019 --> 00:34:19.400 And so Lord, we thank you for Jesus. 00:34:19.639 --> 00:34:23.619 We thank you that he is better than anything and everything in this world. 00:34:23.860 --> 00:34:30.940 And help us to live a life that shows that we believe that Jesus is truly better. 00:34:30.940 --> 00:34:34.059 And we ask all of this in Jesus' precious name. 00:34:34.380 --> 00:34:34.740 Amen. 00:34:35.460 --> 00:34:36.659 I want to invite you to stand. 00:34:36.740 --> 00:34:38.360 We're going to sing a song of invitation. 00:34:38.860 --> 00:34:40.519 The Lord is speaking to you this morning. 00:34:40.619 --> 00:34:43.079 Won't you respond as we stand together and sing? 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:34:43.239 00:34:43.239 --> 00:35:13.219 Thank you.