WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:00.420 Page 10. 00:00:10.099 --> 00:00:11.620 Page 1007. 00:00:13.140 --> 00:00:15.599 As we turn to God's word, let me pray for us. 00:00:18.679 --> 00:00:21.359 God, indeed, we do thank you for your word. 00:00:21.760 --> 00:00:28.440 And we thank you for the way in which you use it by your spirit to bring to remembrance all the good things of the gospel. 00:00:29.240 --> 00:00:36.960 Lord, this weekend, as we remember those who have served and who have done so with courage, God, we are thankful for them. 00:00:39.859 --> 00:00:41.179 Pray for them in particular. 00:00:42.240 --> 00:00:44.400 God, we pray for us that you would open up our hearts. 00:00:44.400 --> 00:00:48.500 That you would be encouraged by your word this morning. 00:00:49.180 --> 00:00:50.920 To hear its warnings and its encouragement. 00:00:52.280 --> 00:00:54.500 And so to follow our Lord Jesus. 00:00:55.980 --> 00:00:57.760 We pray this in Christ's name. Amen. 00:00:59.159 --> 00:01:01.379 Hebrews 10, verses 26 through 39. 00:01:01.879 --> 00:01:02.960 Let me read this for us. 00:01:05.959 --> 00:01:13.439 For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins. 00:01:13.439 --> 00:01:20.759 But a fearful expectation of judgment and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. 00:01:22.079 --> 00:01:28.280 Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 00:01:28.280 --> 00:01:42.879 How much worse punishment do you think will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified and has outraged the Spirit of grace. 00:01:42.879 --> 00:01:47.599 For we know him who said, vengeance is mine, I will repay. 00:01:48.399 --> 00:01:50.859 And again, the Lord will judge his people. 00:01:51.799 --> 00:01:56.420 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. 00:01:56.420 --> 00:01:59.659 But recall the former days. 00:01:59.659 --> 00:02:09.639 When after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction and sometimes being partners with those so treated. 00:02:09.639 --> 00:02:21.019 For you had compassion on those in prison and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. 00:02:22.699 --> 00:02:27.079 Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. 00:02:28.179 --> 00:02:34.500 For you have need of endurance so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive what is promised. 00:02:34.500 --> 00:02:41.159 For yet a little while in the coming one will come and will not delay, but my righteous one shall live by faith. 00:02:41.560 --> 00:02:44.060 And if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him. 00:02:44.139 --> 00:02:52.879 But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls. 00:02:57.500 --> 00:03:01.139 Well, friends, imagine that I were to give you a blank sheet of paper. 00:03:01.139 --> 00:03:07.579 And I were to hand out some colored pencils or crayons or markers, whatever your sort of art supply of choice is. 00:03:07.899 --> 00:03:13.019 And I were to ask you to draw a picture that best represented the Christian life. 00:03:13.919 --> 00:03:15.839 I wonder what sort of picture you would draw. 00:03:16.819 --> 00:03:20.239 Would it be a picture of sitting on the beach, enjoying a sunset? 00:03:21.239 --> 00:03:26.679 Or would it be a picture of walking through a field of wild flowers, ready to have a picnic? 00:03:26.680 --> 00:03:31.080 Maybe there's some truth in those kinds of pictures. 00:03:31.219 --> 00:03:34.620 But you know, Hebrews paints quite a different picture. 00:03:35.920 --> 00:03:41.740 The Christian life here is a race, is a marathon. 00:03:43.260 --> 00:03:49.379 In fact, in verse 32, the word translated struggle literally means an athletic contest. 00:03:49.379 --> 00:03:56.419 So, the Olympian making her way around the final curve of the track. 00:03:56.900 --> 00:03:58.979 Her lungs drawing deep breath. 00:03:59.219 --> 00:04:01.840 Her face set with determination for the finish line. 00:04:02.159 --> 00:04:07.000 This is the picture of the Christian life that we find in Hebrews. 00:04:07.000 --> 00:04:15.840 And for this race, for this marathon, we need endurance. 00:04:17.439 --> 00:04:20.620 This is one of the great themes of this book. 00:04:21.480 --> 00:04:26.459 As our text says in verse 36, you have need of endurance. 00:04:27.879 --> 00:04:30.339 You need staying power for the race ahead. 00:04:30.620 --> 00:04:31.720 The finish line is approaching. 00:04:32.079 --> 00:04:35.199 A wreath of glory lies ahead, but you have need of endurance. 00:04:35.199 --> 00:04:42.120 Because there will come times when we will want to throw in the towel. 00:04:44.000 --> 00:04:49.699 When external pressures and internal doubts will tempt us to give up the race. 00:04:50.899 --> 00:04:53.980 I remember the last time I played a serious game of basketball. 00:04:55.419 --> 00:04:58.599 The first few times up and down the court, I felt great. 00:04:59.339 --> 00:05:00.379 My form was good. 00:05:00.719 --> 00:05:02.180 I was hustling back on defense. 00:05:02.180 --> 00:05:05.420 I was thinking to myself, man, I love basketball. 00:05:05.920 --> 00:05:07.780 Why am I not out here playing more often? 00:05:09.759 --> 00:05:12.560 And then some external pressures started to set in. 00:05:13.660 --> 00:05:14.980 It was a hot summer day. 00:05:16.100 --> 00:05:17.680 I was badly out of shape. 00:05:18.600 --> 00:05:20.060 My legs were getting tired. 00:05:20.199 --> 00:05:23.399 Pretty soon I was sucking wind and sweating and feeling a little bit lightheaded. 00:05:23.480 --> 00:05:25.220 Looking for the closest water fountain. 00:05:25.220 --> 00:05:28.400 And then came the internal doubts. 00:05:29.600 --> 00:05:31.240 Is this game really worth it? 00:05:32.260 --> 00:05:34.100 These guys can probably finish without me. 00:05:34.880 --> 00:05:37.580 I'm not even really sure I like basketball to begin with. 00:05:40.300 --> 00:05:46.580 Now you see, spiritually and much more seriously, the same thing can begin to happen. 00:05:47.860 --> 00:05:50.220 External pressures start to come. 00:05:50.220 --> 00:05:54.320 We even see some of these outlined in verses 33 and 34. 00:05:54.480 --> 00:05:59.300 The original audience of Hebrews had been publicly shamed for their confession of Christ. 00:05:59.900 --> 00:06:01.060 Some of them had even been imprisoned. 00:06:01.240 --> 00:06:04.260 Others had had their property broken into and stolen. 00:06:04.740 --> 00:06:06.420 And it seems the authorities just looked the other way. 00:06:06.640 --> 00:06:09.240 And all of this for identifying with Jesus. 00:06:10.980 --> 00:06:14.960 What pressures are you facing for being a Christian? 00:06:15.880 --> 00:06:17.440 Maybe it's nothing that severe. 00:06:17.439 --> 00:06:22.519 Of course, many of our brothers and sisters around the world do face persecution just like this. 00:06:22.579 --> 00:06:23.439 But maybe that's not you. 00:06:24.920 --> 00:06:27.920 And yet the pressures are still there, aren't they? 00:06:29.560 --> 00:06:34.899 Friends and co-workers poke fun at Christians not realizing that you're a Christian yourself. 00:06:35.159 --> 00:06:36.620 And you're sort of caught in the midst. 00:06:38.060 --> 00:06:43.879 Maybe you're under pressure to make some decisions at work that go against your faithful obedience to Christ. 00:06:44.480 --> 00:06:46.240 And you know that there'll be a cost. 00:06:46.240 --> 00:06:54.740 Or maybe you're just tired of waiting for a good Christian guy or girl to come along to date. 00:06:54.800 --> 00:06:56.759 So you start dating some non-Christians. 00:06:56.840 --> 00:06:58.540 The pressures are there. 00:07:00.079 --> 00:07:02.879 And then don't the internal doubts start to come? 00:07:04.040 --> 00:07:06.000 And we find some of those echoed in verse 29. 00:07:06.759 --> 00:07:08.740 Was Jesus really who he said he was? 00:07:08.939 --> 00:07:10.180 The son of God? 00:07:10.220 --> 00:07:12.699 Or was he just another religious figure from long ago? 00:07:12.699 --> 00:07:16.759 Was Jesus' death really necessary? 00:07:17.259 --> 00:07:18.079 Really saving? 00:07:18.219 --> 00:07:21.300 Or was he just another martyr for a good cause? 00:07:22.500 --> 00:07:24.139 And finally, grace. 00:07:25.420 --> 00:07:28.519 I'm basically a good person, aren't I? 00:07:29.379 --> 00:07:30.719 Is it really all of grace? 00:07:30.800 --> 00:07:33.740 Do I really need radical forgiveness? 00:07:33.740 --> 00:07:37.379 External pressures. 00:07:37.660 --> 00:07:38.579 Internal doubts. 00:07:38.879 --> 00:07:43.980 And so you see, along this race, we all need endurance. 00:07:45.340 --> 00:07:49.000 Jesus himself gave us a picture of this when he told the parable of the sower, didn't he? 00:07:49.379 --> 00:07:51.939 A farmer goes out and spreads his seed on the field. 00:07:52.319 --> 00:07:54.800 And some seed is snatched up right away by the birds. 00:07:55.600 --> 00:07:57.819 And some seed, after a while, it doesn't get deep enough. 00:07:57.819 --> 00:07:59.000 So it's burned by the sun. 00:07:59.180 --> 00:08:02.000 And some seed gets choked out by the thorns. 00:08:03.399 --> 00:08:05.420 And none of these endure. 00:08:07.519 --> 00:08:22.139 But the seed that falls in good soil, that seed takes root and grows up and produces a lasting crop 30, 60, even 100 times what it began with, Jesus says. 00:08:22.899 --> 00:08:25.600 A great flourishing harvest. 00:08:25.600 --> 00:08:30.340 So we have need of endurance. 00:08:31.720 --> 00:08:37.440 And our text here in Hebrews gives us two powerful reasons to endure in the faith. 00:08:38.019 --> 00:08:40.040 One is negative and one is positive. 00:08:40.159 --> 00:08:42.860 One is a warning and one is an encouragement. 00:08:44.399 --> 00:08:48.100 So first, let's look at the warning in verses 26 through 31. 00:08:48.560 --> 00:08:51.300 We're told here that we must endure in the faith. 00:08:51.299 --> 00:08:56.379 Because apart from Christ, there is certain judgment. 00:08:57.659 --> 00:08:58.459 A warning. 00:08:59.519 --> 00:09:05.120 Now, Hebrews has been punctuated by a series of what's called warning passages. 00:09:06.339 --> 00:09:10.079 And warnings, of course, are extremely loving, aren't they? 00:09:10.080 --> 00:09:18.660 The parent who warns his or her child about not running into the street, about the extreme dangers of oncoming traffic, is a loving parent. 00:09:20.020 --> 00:09:25.920 And so Hebrews, by giving us these warnings, is an extremely loving book. 00:09:25.919 --> 00:09:36.199 And the warning is, as he says in verse 26, that we would not go on sinning deliberately. 00:09:38.240 --> 00:09:42.399 Now, we've got to sort of look a little closer at what he means by this phrase. 00:09:42.519 --> 00:09:44.719 What exactly is he talking about? 00:09:44.799 --> 00:09:49.860 What sort of deliberate, continuous sin does he have in mind here? 00:09:49.860 --> 00:09:54.259 Well, he explains in verse 29. 00:09:56.399 --> 00:09:59.120 This is his unpacking of what he has in mind. 00:09:59.180 --> 00:10:00.600 What exactly he's talking about. 00:10:00.759 --> 00:10:01.560 And what does it involve? 00:10:01.639 --> 00:10:02.360 Look at verse 29. 00:10:02.500 --> 00:10:05.240 Trampling, profaning, outraging, or insulting. 00:10:05.399 --> 00:10:11.360 That is, decisively and consciously and continually rejecting what? 00:10:13.080 --> 00:10:14.420 Christ is the Son of God. 00:10:15.700 --> 00:10:17.960 The atoning power of his death. 00:10:17.960 --> 00:10:21.540 And the Spirit's offer of grace. 00:10:23.840 --> 00:10:30.840 So you see, the warning here is not necessarily against what we would call besetting sins. 00:10:31.639 --> 00:10:38.080 Those habitual sins that we fall into again and again and repent for and fight against and can't seem to shake. 00:10:38.620 --> 00:10:40.379 That we all wrestle with as believers. 00:10:40.560 --> 00:10:42.259 That's not what he has in mind here. 00:10:42.259 --> 00:10:51.600 Rather, the warning is against decisively and consciously, deliberately, continually rejecting the claims of the gospel. 00:10:52.799 --> 00:10:54.059 The person of Christ. 00:10:54.399 --> 00:10:55.639 The work of Christ. 00:10:56.259 --> 00:10:57.559 The grace-giving Spirit. 00:11:00.259 --> 00:11:01.580 Now, what does that look like? 00:11:01.580 --> 00:11:11.780 Well, the example that Hebrews has given us that's running like a thread throughout this book is the example, is the picture of the Exodus generation. 00:11:13.540 --> 00:11:18.440 Think back to all that that generation had seen and partaken of. 00:11:18.900 --> 00:11:19.960 Do you remember the story? 00:11:19.960 --> 00:11:23.519 God had brought them out of slavery with a mighty hand. 00:11:24.379 --> 00:11:27.040 God had then taken them through the Red Sea. 00:11:27.180 --> 00:11:28.480 He had fed them in the wilderness. 00:11:28.660 --> 00:11:31.379 They heard his own voice speaking from Mount Sinai. 00:11:31.700 --> 00:11:34.920 And then Moses continued to speak God's word to them. 00:11:36.240 --> 00:11:38.960 And yet, when they get to the border of the promised land. 00:11:39.340 --> 00:11:41.420 So close to the finish line. 00:11:42.259 --> 00:11:43.900 The promise right there. 00:11:43.899 --> 00:11:50.959 They refuse to believe God's faithfulness and turn back. 00:11:51.699 --> 00:11:53.299 They reject God. 00:11:53.919 --> 00:11:55.639 And God judges them all. 00:11:59.959 --> 00:12:07.699 Hebrews is saying that it's possible for us to get a taste of the supreme exodus in Christ. 00:12:07.799 --> 00:12:13.519 To get a taste of God's final and superior word in Christ. 00:12:13.899 --> 00:12:18.799 And yet, still to not actually believe. 00:12:19.840 --> 00:12:24.539 And yet, still to get so close and then fall away. 00:12:27.539 --> 00:12:30.559 Now, does this mean that you can lose your salvation? 00:12:32.120 --> 00:12:32.419 No. 00:12:33.220 --> 00:12:36.199 It doesn't mean that you can lose your salvation. 00:12:36.200 --> 00:12:40.480 But it does mean that, like Jesus' parable of the sower. 00:12:40.840 --> 00:12:45.500 It does mean that some people can make what looks like a really good start. 00:12:46.480 --> 00:12:48.900 And not really have saving faith. 00:12:51.360 --> 00:12:52.900 We might know all the answers. 00:12:53.879 --> 00:12:56.240 We might have received the knowledge of the truth. 00:12:56.240 --> 00:12:59.460 We might do all the right things morally. 00:13:00.399 --> 00:13:02.460 And live a life that sort of looks Christian. 00:13:03.460 --> 00:13:05.240 We might even have had some spiritual experiences. 00:13:06.200 --> 00:13:09.379 Chapter 6 talks about tasting the goodness of the word of God. 00:13:09.440 --> 00:13:10.860 And the powers of the age to come. 00:13:11.919 --> 00:13:13.680 We might undergo all that. 00:13:13.679 --> 00:13:21.239 And yet, none have truly given our lives to Christ. 00:13:22.679 --> 00:13:24.239 And when the pressures come. 00:13:24.639 --> 00:13:26.019 And the doubts come. 00:13:26.439 --> 00:13:27.979 And the sun bears down. 00:13:28.439 --> 00:13:30.179 And the thorns crowd in. 00:13:31.179 --> 00:13:32.399 We throw it away. 00:13:32.399 --> 00:13:39.019 And Hebrews goes on to say that if we reject Christ in that way. 00:13:40.059 --> 00:13:43.240 Then there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins. 00:13:45.899 --> 00:13:49.059 That is, he's saying that there's no salvation to be found anywhere else. 00:13:50.100 --> 00:13:51.779 The original audience of Hebrews. 00:13:52.120 --> 00:13:53.840 You know, these first recipients of this letter. 00:13:53.939 --> 00:13:55.959 Couldn't go back to the Old Testament sacrifices. 00:13:56.120 --> 00:13:57.659 And think that those were going to cover them. 00:13:58.039 --> 00:13:59.419 If they turned away from Christ. 00:13:59.419 --> 00:14:04.479 And we can't think that we can turn away from Christ to anything else. 00:14:05.000 --> 00:14:06.639 Whether it be another belief system. 00:14:06.819 --> 00:14:08.179 Or our own moral record. 00:14:08.559 --> 00:14:10.259 And think that that's going to be enough. 00:14:10.459 --> 00:14:11.799 To make us right with God. 00:14:14.159 --> 00:14:15.579 God has made. 00:14:16.199 --> 00:14:17.519 Cleansing in Christ. 00:14:17.799 --> 00:14:18.799 That is sufficient. 00:14:19.279 --> 00:14:20.079 And total. 00:14:20.419 --> 00:14:21.219 And free. 00:14:21.579 --> 00:14:22.519 And perfect. 00:14:23.579 --> 00:14:25.240 For all who come to him. 00:14:26.759 --> 00:14:28.939 And it can't be found anywhere else. 00:14:30.039 --> 00:14:33.299 So to reject Christ is to put yourself in a place. 00:14:33.799 --> 00:14:35.959 Where there is no sacrifice for sins. 00:14:39.000 --> 00:14:41.419 Imagine a great storm coming up. 00:14:42.219 --> 00:14:43.740 Across the plains. 00:14:44.879 --> 00:14:46.479 And taking refuge. 00:14:46.479 --> 00:14:49.819 In the safe, warm home of Christ. 00:14:50.819 --> 00:14:52.099 And in that place. 00:14:52.159 --> 00:14:54.219 No matter how hard the rains beat. 00:14:54.480 --> 00:14:57.199 And no matter how hard the wind rocks against it. 00:14:57.500 --> 00:14:58.799 You're not harmed. 00:14:58.799 --> 00:15:02.219 That house is utterly secure. 00:15:04.099 --> 00:15:05.759 But if you throw open the door. 00:15:06.419 --> 00:15:07.859 And run into the night. 00:15:08.899 --> 00:15:12.059 Hebrews is saying there's no shelter out there that can keep you safe. 00:15:13.399 --> 00:15:15.479 There's no refuge from the storm. 00:15:15.740 --> 00:15:16.719 Apart from him. 00:15:16.720 --> 00:15:22.139 So I hope you see what this verse isn't saying. 00:15:22.519 --> 00:15:23.180 First of all. 00:15:24.000 --> 00:15:27.100 It's not saying that there's going to come a point in our Christian life. 00:15:27.100 --> 00:15:30.000 When the effect of Christ's sacrifice will maybe run out. 00:15:30.180 --> 00:15:31.320 When Christ will say to us. 00:15:31.320 --> 00:15:33.000 Well I've paid for your sins up to this point. 00:15:33.060 --> 00:15:34.379 But you know I'm done with you now. 00:15:36.259 --> 00:15:37.720 I'm not going to pay for them any further. 00:15:37.860 --> 00:15:38.120 No. 00:15:38.120 --> 00:15:41.159 Everyone who comes to Christ. 00:15:41.240 --> 00:15:42.299 Who takes refuge in him. 00:15:42.360 --> 00:15:43.600 No matter how great their sins. 00:15:43.860 --> 00:15:46.080 No matter how many times they keep stumbling and falling. 00:15:46.200 --> 00:15:50.100 Will continue to have complete forgiveness. 00:15:50.379 --> 00:15:52.879 But if we leave him. 00:15:53.460 --> 00:15:54.720 If we reject him. 00:15:55.539 --> 00:15:58.580 Hebrews is saying we're stepping out from the shelter. 00:15:58.580 --> 00:16:00.480 And into the storm. 00:16:02.820 --> 00:16:06.120 And again does this mean that the true believer can lose their salvation? 00:16:06.320 --> 00:16:06.560 No. 00:16:07.420 --> 00:16:08.960 Those for whom Christ has died. 00:16:09.080 --> 00:16:11.660 Those whom the spirit has caused to be born again. 00:16:11.660 --> 00:16:12.860 In saving faith. 00:16:12.980 --> 00:16:14.300 Can never fully fall away. 00:16:14.400 --> 00:16:15.580 But it is possible. 00:16:16.520 --> 00:16:18.600 For someone to profess faith. 00:16:20.200 --> 00:16:22.660 And not really be genuine. 00:16:24.120 --> 00:16:25.660 For there to come a point. 00:16:26.180 --> 00:16:28.020 When through pressures and doubts. 00:16:28.019 --> 00:16:29.179 They turn away. 00:16:32.439 --> 00:16:33.699 And Hebrews warns us. 00:16:33.799 --> 00:16:35.779 That to reject Christ in this way. 00:16:36.159 --> 00:16:37.460 Means turning toward. 00:16:38.360 --> 00:16:40.620 What he calls a fearful expectation. 00:16:41.220 --> 00:16:41.840 Of judgment. 00:16:44.340 --> 00:16:45.139 In these verses. 00:16:45.259 --> 00:16:45.899 Hebrews is clear. 00:16:46.039 --> 00:16:47.659 That to deliberately and continually. 00:16:47.879 --> 00:16:48.799 Forsake the gospel. 00:16:48.980 --> 00:16:51.319 Means facing judgment from God. 00:16:52.220 --> 00:16:53.480 A judgment that he says. 00:16:53.539 --> 00:16:54.220 In verse 29. 00:16:54.220 --> 00:16:55.220 Is deserved. 00:16:56.279 --> 00:16:57.419 And in verse 30. 00:16:57.500 --> 00:16:57.799 He says. 00:16:57.799 --> 00:16:58.679 It's certain. 00:16:59.679 --> 00:17:00.919 And in verse 31. 00:17:01.079 --> 00:17:01.319 He says. 00:17:01.319 --> 00:17:02.919 It's ultimately fearful. 00:17:07.019 --> 00:17:07.559 Of course. 00:17:07.599 --> 00:17:08.940 The reality of God's judgment. 00:17:09.399 --> 00:17:11.299 Is something that we struggle with today. 00:17:12.659 --> 00:17:14.299 Like the parent warning the child. 00:17:14.299 --> 00:17:15.599 About the very real danger. 00:17:15.599 --> 00:17:16.480 Of running into the road. 00:17:16.579 --> 00:17:18.419 It's not something we delight to talk about. 00:17:18.420 --> 00:17:21.700 But we have deeper doubts. 00:17:21.700 --> 00:17:22.180 Don't we? 00:17:24.100 --> 00:17:26.060 How could a loving God. 00:17:26.380 --> 00:17:27.220 Really judge? 00:17:28.019 --> 00:17:29.340 Isn't talk of punishment. 00:17:29.700 --> 00:17:30.480 And fire. 00:17:30.620 --> 00:17:31.840 Like we have here in this passage. 00:17:32.120 --> 00:17:32.600 Beneath. 00:17:33.140 --> 00:17:34.660 A loving and good God. 00:17:37.220 --> 00:17:38.920 Well I think it's helpful to remember. 00:17:39.120 --> 00:17:40.640 As we wrestle with questions. 00:17:40.640 --> 00:17:42.140 And with texts like these. 00:17:42.360 --> 00:17:44.019 That it was actually Jesus himself. 00:17:44.019 --> 00:17:46.559 Who talked more about eternal judgment. 00:17:46.559 --> 00:17:48.240 Than anyone else in the Bible. 00:17:49.240 --> 00:17:51.160 And that ought to give us pause. 00:17:52.039 --> 00:17:53.440 Sober pause. 00:17:53.779 --> 00:17:56.339 Before we simply reject the idea out of hand. 00:17:57.619 --> 00:18:00.819 But also remember who God reveals himself to be. 00:18:00.819 --> 00:18:04.599 God is the one who is utterly good. 00:18:05.519 --> 00:18:06.559 According to the Bible. 00:18:07.579 --> 00:18:09.139 Who creates the world. 00:18:09.259 --> 00:18:09.839 In his goodness. 00:18:10.740 --> 00:18:12.779 Who delights over creation. 00:18:12.919 --> 00:18:13.319 In his goodness. 00:18:13.439 --> 00:18:15.379 Who satisfies our souls. 00:18:15.720 --> 00:18:16.619 With his goodness. 00:18:16.619 --> 00:18:18.659 And whose goodness doesn't spoil. 00:18:19.159 --> 00:18:19.819 Or fade. 00:18:20.000 --> 00:18:20.899 Or waver. 00:18:22.419 --> 00:18:24.339 And because he is good. 00:18:25.079 --> 00:18:26.740 And completely so. 00:18:28.119 --> 00:18:30.639 It means that God ultimately says no. 00:18:30.819 --> 00:18:32.559 To evil and injustice. 00:18:33.019 --> 00:18:33.579 And sin. 00:18:33.899 --> 00:18:34.779 And wrongdoing. 00:18:35.980 --> 00:18:36.460 You see friends. 00:18:36.519 --> 00:18:37.500 If God didn't judge. 00:18:37.579 --> 00:18:38.859 We couldn't call him good. 00:18:39.460 --> 00:18:40.019 And in fact. 00:18:40.099 --> 00:18:41.319 We wouldn't call him good. 00:18:43.659 --> 00:18:44.599 And what's more. 00:18:44.679 --> 00:18:46.059 It's not until we see the depth. 00:18:46.379 --> 00:18:48.720 Of the reality of God's judgment. 00:18:49.700 --> 00:18:52.179 That we can finally see the real depth. 00:18:52.579 --> 00:18:53.879 Of God's love. 00:18:54.119 --> 00:18:54.679 And goodness. 00:18:55.779 --> 00:18:57.179 You see what God in Christ. 00:18:57.319 --> 00:18:58.960 Willingly endured on the cross for us. 00:18:58.960 --> 00:19:00.259 Was the full weight. 00:19:00.259 --> 00:19:01.160 Of judgment. 00:19:01.779 --> 00:19:02.840 That our sins deserved. 00:19:03.579 --> 00:19:04.319 That there. 00:19:04.660 --> 00:19:06.559 The wrath of God was satisfied. 00:19:06.960 --> 00:19:08.360 For all who believe. 00:19:08.960 --> 00:19:09.940 Do you see the depth. 00:19:10.100 --> 00:19:11.779 Of the love of God. 00:19:12.039 --> 00:19:12.559 For you. 00:19:13.559 --> 00:19:15.220 That Christ would step out. 00:19:15.299 --> 00:19:16.420 Into that storm. 00:19:17.579 --> 00:19:19.920 So that you would always be safe. 00:19:19.920 --> 00:19:20.019 To be safe. 00:19:24.120 --> 00:19:25.220 So you see why. 00:19:25.340 --> 00:19:26.660 We're being warned this morning. 00:19:27.100 --> 00:19:28.620 Not to forsake this Christ. 00:19:29.400 --> 00:19:31.019 But rather to endure in the faith. 00:19:31.100 --> 00:19:32.460 Because apart from Christ. 00:19:32.580 --> 00:19:34.320 We face God's good and right. 00:19:35.279 --> 00:19:35.720 Justice. 00:19:38.800 --> 00:19:40.300 Now perhaps you're here this morning. 00:19:41.300 --> 00:19:43.340 And maybe you're thinking about giving up. 00:19:44.600 --> 00:19:45.640 On Christianity. 00:19:45.640 --> 00:19:48.800 Maybe you've identified as a believer. 00:19:48.980 --> 00:19:49.620 Up till this point. 00:19:50.020 --> 00:19:50.660 But anymore. 00:19:51.420 --> 00:19:52.900 And maybe you're just not so sure. 00:19:55.259 --> 00:19:55.700 Friend. 00:19:55.759 --> 00:19:56.740 Perhaps this warning. 00:19:57.460 --> 00:19:59.060 That we're looking at this morning. 00:19:59.620 --> 00:20:00.440 Is for you. 00:20:01.820 --> 00:20:03.780 What do you hope to find. 00:20:04.200 --> 00:20:05.480 Apart from Christ. 00:20:05.840 --> 00:20:06.240 Life. 00:20:07.400 --> 00:20:07.780 Freedom. 00:20:08.600 --> 00:20:08.920 Joy. 00:20:08.920 --> 00:20:09.000 Joy. 00:20:10.340 --> 00:20:11.520 Maybe you'll get a glimpse. 00:20:11.520 --> 00:20:12.420 Of all these things. 00:20:12.520 --> 00:20:13.420 But it will be fleeting. 00:20:13.420 --> 00:20:15.880 The life will dry up. 00:20:16.620 --> 00:20:18.500 The freedom will wither away. 00:20:19.300 --> 00:20:21.360 The joy will wind down. 00:20:22.700 --> 00:20:23.920 And apart from Christ. 00:20:24.039 --> 00:20:25.300 When your race is run. 00:20:26.140 --> 00:20:28.100 And you stand in the light. 00:20:28.200 --> 00:20:30.060 Of God's utter goodness. 00:20:31.000 --> 00:20:32.200 Your creator. 00:20:33.160 --> 00:20:34.500 And your rightful judge. 00:20:35.880 --> 00:20:37.539 What will have been worth. 00:20:38.080 --> 00:20:39.360 In that moment. 00:20:40.080 --> 00:20:41.100 Forsaking Christ. 00:20:41.779 --> 00:20:43.259 And treating his death as common. 00:20:43.259 --> 00:20:44.660 And rejecting the grace. 00:20:45.019 --> 00:20:46.740 That he offers you now. 00:20:47.140 --> 00:20:47.940 Through his spirit. 00:20:52.259 --> 00:20:53.519 Jonathan Edwards once said. 00:20:53.579 --> 00:20:55.500 Even if there were no flames in hell. 00:20:55.619 --> 00:20:57.660 The pain of guilt and shame. 00:20:57.660 --> 00:20:59.099 Would be fire enough. 00:21:01.640 --> 00:21:04.019 To see all that God. 00:21:04.539 --> 00:21:06.359 Had done for you and me. 00:21:06.819 --> 00:21:07.819 And to turn away. 00:21:07.819 --> 00:21:11.799 What a dreadful place to be. 00:21:15.259 --> 00:21:15.740 Friend. 00:21:15.799 --> 00:21:17.399 God doesn't want to leave you. 00:21:17.899 --> 00:21:18.720 In your guilt. 00:21:19.720 --> 00:21:20.839 And that's why. 00:21:20.960 --> 00:21:22.059 This warning is here. 00:21:23.500 --> 00:21:24.799 Don't go that way. 00:21:25.439 --> 00:21:26.619 Take Christ. 00:21:26.819 --> 00:21:27.259 In faith. 00:21:27.379 --> 00:21:28.379 And rest in him. 00:21:28.659 --> 00:21:29.779 As your only. 00:21:30.200 --> 00:21:31.480 Refuge from the storm. 00:21:31.480 --> 00:21:35.180 If you've been wandering. 00:21:35.860 --> 00:21:36.640 Turn back. 00:21:39.299 --> 00:21:40.500 The gates are open. 00:21:40.720 --> 00:21:41.299 Come in. 00:21:43.360 --> 00:21:44.759 And united to him. 00:21:44.960 --> 00:21:46.940 You'll not just find refuge. 00:21:47.940 --> 00:21:49.440 But Hebrews goes on to say. 00:21:49.960 --> 00:21:51.460 Great reward. 00:21:52.460 --> 00:21:53.579 That's the next step. 00:21:53.740 --> 00:21:54.519 In our passage. 00:21:54.519 --> 00:21:55.640 As we need endurance. 00:21:55.640 --> 00:21:56.759 For this race of faith. 00:21:56.860 --> 00:21:57.839 Hebrews now encourages us. 00:21:57.839 --> 00:21:59.259 In verses 32 to 39. 00:21:59.259 --> 00:22:00.240 To endure in the faith. 00:22:00.400 --> 00:22:01.240 Because in Christ. 00:22:01.319 --> 00:22:02.779 There is great reward. 00:22:03.819 --> 00:22:05.099 And he starts by telling us. 00:22:05.099 --> 00:22:06.660 To recall the former days. 00:22:07.420 --> 00:22:08.519 Remember the former days. 00:22:08.519 --> 00:22:09.259 When you endured. 00:22:09.500 --> 00:22:10.420 A hard struggle. 00:22:10.579 --> 00:22:11.420 With sufferings. 00:22:11.920 --> 00:22:12.680 Don't you remember. 00:22:12.680 --> 00:22:13.240 He says. 00:22:13.680 --> 00:22:14.859 You've done it before. 00:22:15.579 --> 00:22:16.879 You can do this. 00:22:17.400 --> 00:22:18.660 Remember your past. 00:22:18.940 --> 00:22:20.240 Victories in the face of hardship. 00:22:20.500 --> 00:22:20.980 Recall. 00:22:21.319 --> 00:22:22.240 How you. 00:22:22.960 --> 00:22:23.359 Endured. 00:22:24.799 --> 00:22:25.240 Friends. 00:22:25.539 --> 00:22:25.980 Rehearse. 00:22:26.339 --> 00:22:27.019 The past. 00:22:27.420 --> 00:22:27.819 Faithfulness. 00:22:27.819 --> 00:22:28.740 Of Christ to you. 00:22:28.740 --> 00:22:29.819 This is one of the reasons. 00:22:30.019 --> 00:22:31.319 Why God calls us. 00:22:31.319 --> 00:22:32.200 Into community. 00:22:32.859 --> 00:22:34.400 So that we can be reminding. 00:22:34.779 --> 00:22:35.519 One another. 00:22:36.299 --> 00:22:37.220 Of the mercies. 00:22:37.319 --> 00:22:38.099 And faithfulness. 00:22:38.140 --> 00:22:38.900 Of God to us. 00:22:39.079 --> 00:22:39.880 And the realities. 00:22:39.880 --> 00:22:40.900 Of our everyday life. 00:22:41.299 --> 00:22:42.660 Because I'm forgetful. 00:22:43.200 --> 00:22:44.859 I don't remember the times. 00:22:45.000 --> 00:22:46.059 When God saw me through. 00:22:46.140 --> 00:22:46.680 But you. 00:22:47.720 --> 00:22:49.220 Because you see my life. 00:22:49.779 --> 00:22:51.319 Can come to me with that word. 00:22:51.519 --> 00:22:51.799 And say. 00:22:51.940 --> 00:22:52.220 No. 00:22:52.339 --> 00:22:52.500 Nick. 00:22:52.680 --> 00:22:53.079 Remember. 00:22:53.880 --> 00:22:55.339 When Christ saw you through this. 00:22:55.599 --> 00:22:56.680 The struggles you're having now. 00:22:56.740 --> 00:22:57.680 The pressures you're having now. 00:22:57.740 --> 00:22:58.680 The doubts you're having now. 00:22:59.259 --> 00:22:59.960 He's faithful. 00:23:00.360 --> 00:23:01.460 He can see you through. 00:23:04.799 --> 00:23:05.200 Remember. 00:23:05.539 --> 00:23:06.940 When God showed himself. 00:23:07.380 --> 00:23:07.640 Faithful. 00:23:07.700 --> 00:23:09.360 How much of our spiritual weakness. 00:23:10.039 --> 00:23:11.740 Comes because we're forgetful. 00:23:11.820 --> 00:23:11.900 We. 00:23:12.000 --> 00:23:12.920 We so quickly say. 00:23:13.000 --> 00:23:14.039 I can't go on. 00:23:14.460 --> 00:23:15.759 But listen to the spirit. 00:23:15.820 --> 00:23:16.240 Who's saying. 00:23:16.740 --> 00:23:17.180 Remember. 00:23:19.019 --> 00:23:19.920 In Christ. 00:23:20.420 --> 00:23:21.500 You did it once. 00:23:21.840 --> 00:23:22.960 And you can do it again. 00:23:22.960 --> 00:23:26.340 He won't let you down. 00:23:28.240 --> 00:23:29.079 And then Hebrews. 00:23:29.079 --> 00:23:29.740 He lifts up our eyes. 00:23:29.740 --> 00:23:30.579 From our past. 00:23:30.740 --> 00:23:31.579 To our future. 00:23:32.740 --> 00:23:34.380 What allowed these first Christians. 00:23:34.380 --> 00:23:35.819 To undergo such hardship. 00:23:35.819 --> 00:23:37.480 And to endure in the midst of it. 00:23:37.539 --> 00:23:39.039 Look again at the end of verse 34. 00:23:40.039 --> 00:23:41.019 They were able to endure. 00:23:41.120 --> 00:23:41.880 Because they knew. 00:23:42.059 --> 00:23:43.039 That they had. 00:23:43.279 --> 00:23:43.779 What he calls. 00:23:43.819 --> 00:23:45.240 A better possession. 00:23:45.240 --> 00:23:47.019 And an abiding one. 00:23:47.759 --> 00:23:49.160 Verse 35 says. 00:23:49.299 --> 00:23:49.819 A great. 00:23:50.519 --> 00:23:51.160 Reward. 00:23:52.420 --> 00:23:53.920 Haven't we been hearing that note. 00:23:53.980 --> 00:23:55.099 Again and again. 00:23:55.460 --> 00:23:56.200 Through Hebrews. 00:23:56.859 --> 00:23:57.259 Better. 00:23:57.259 --> 00:23:59.539 In Christ. 00:23:59.660 --> 00:24:00.400 We have something. 00:24:00.779 --> 00:24:01.559 That's better. 00:24:02.059 --> 00:24:02.879 That's greater. 00:24:03.379 --> 00:24:04.259 That's superior. 00:24:05.759 --> 00:24:06.839 And here it's our future. 00:24:07.039 --> 00:24:07.440 Possession. 00:24:07.539 --> 00:24:07.900 That's better. 00:24:08.160 --> 00:24:08.859 In the Old Testament. 00:24:08.980 --> 00:24:10.059 The promised possession was what? 00:24:10.180 --> 00:24:11.000 It was the land. 00:24:11.339 --> 00:24:12.619 But that was just a shadow. 00:24:12.960 --> 00:24:14.799 Of what God's ultimate plan held. 00:24:15.039 --> 00:24:15.619 And in the new. 00:24:15.720 --> 00:24:17.180 We see that the ultimate possession. 00:24:17.180 --> 00:24:17.779 Of God's people. 00:24:17.900 --> 00:24:18.960 Is even better. 00:24:19.059 --> 00:24:20.019 It's not just the land. 00:24:20.019 --> 00:24:20.879 But it's the new heavens. 00:24:20.879 --> 00:24:21.559 And the new earth. 00:24:22.279 --> 00:24:23.039 It's the world. 00:24:23.400 --> 00:24:23.799 Restored. 00:24:23.940 --> 00:24:24.440 In righteousness. 00:24:24.680 --> 00:24:24.940 It's that. 00:24:25.539 --> 00:24:25.980 Festive. 00:24:26.339 --> 00:24:26.619 City. 00:24:26.619 --> 00:24:27.479 Of Sabbath. 00:24:27.859 --> 00:24:28.199 Rest. 00:24:28.439 --> 00:24:29.219 Yet to come. 00:24:30.019 --> 00:24:31.619 Where God dwells. 00:24:31.939 --> 00:24:33.000 In all of his beauty. 00:24:35.559 --> 00:24:37.179 How much time do we spend. 00:24:37.299 --> 00:24:37.599 Building. 00:24:38.139 --> 00:24:38.859 Our possessions. 00:24:40.179 --> 00:24:41.159 Shopping for houses. 00:24:42.279 --> 00:24:43.479 Planning for retirement. 00:24:43.599 --> 00:24:44.479 None of that's bad. 00:24:44.659 --> 00:24:45.419 It's good stewardship. 00:24:45.539 --> 00:24:46.179 You should do it. 00:24:47.019 --> 00:24:47.719 But friends. 00:24:47.779 --> 00:24:48.759 If that's our hope. 00:24:48.759 --> 00:24:50.219 If that's our security. 00:24:51.099 --> 00:24:52.500 And we're building our lives. 00:24:52.539 --> 00:24:53.299 On a foundation. 00:24:53.299 --> 00:24:54.339 That just doesn't. 00:24:54.799 --> 00:24:55.119 Stand. 00:24:55.119 --> 00:24:57.979 But Christ offers us. 00:24:58.059 --> 00:24:58.639 A possession. 00:24:59.139 --> 00:24:59.819 That is better. 00:25:00.239 --> 00:25:01.239 And that is abiding. 00:25:02.179 --> 00:25:03.659 It's one that lasts. 00:25:04.619 --> 00:25:06.259 And it will last through hardship. 00:25:06.879 --> 00:25:08.359 And it will last through suffering. 00:25:08.639 --> 00:25:10.079 And it will last through loss. 00:25:10.299 --> 00:25:12.419 And it will last even through death. 00:25:15.419 --> 00:25:16.979 And this means that nothing. 00:25:17.919 --> 00:25:19.079 That in Christ. 00:25:19.219 --> 00:25:19.839 Nothing. 00:25:19.839 --> 00:25:19.939 Nothing. 00:25:20.539 --> 00:25:21.819 Of permanent value. 00:25:21.819 --> 00:25:22.919 Can be taken away. 00:25:23.319 --> 00:25:23.819 From you. 00:25:24.039 --> 00:25:24.639 In this life. 00:25:25.339 --> 00:25:26.259 Do you realize that? 00:25:27.759 --> 00:25:28.839 The audience of Hebrews. 00:25:28.959 --> 00:25:29.959 Had their homes broken into. 00:25:30.039 --> 00:25:30.439 And robbed. 00:25:30.939 --> 00:25:32.079 They lost their wealth. 00:25:33.079 --> 00:25:34.399 But they didn't really lose. 00:25:35.439 --> 00:25:36.879 And they were publicly shamed. 00:25:36.939 --> 00:25:38.059 And exposed to reproach. 00:25:38.279 --> 00:25:39.579 They lost their reputations. 00:25:39.579 --> 00:25:42.220 And yet they didn't lose. 00:25:44.000 --> 00:25:45.359 Though they lost their money. 00:25:45.599 --> 00:25:46.500 And their reputation. 00:25:46.500 --> 00:25:47.539 They lost nothing. 00:25:47.539 --> 00:25:48.819 Of permanent value. 00:25:49.319 --> 00:25:50.179 And they weren't shaken. 00:25:50.299 --> 00:25:51.079 Because in Christ. 00:25:51.279 --> 00:25:52.139 They knew. 00:25:52.619 --> 00:25:54.299 That they had a better possession. 00:25:54.879 --> 00:25:55.899 And an abiding one. 00:25:57.519 --> 00:25:58.740 It's like all those stories. 00:25:58.740 --> 00:25:59.579 That come to us. 00:26:00.339 --> 00:26:01.559 About the rich princes. 00:26:01.559 --> 00:26:02.500 Who for a while. 00:26:02.819 --> 00:26:04.139 Decide to go out into the world. 00:26:04.220 --> 00:26:05.099 And see what it's like. 00:26:05.220 --> 00:26:06.139 And they sort of live. 00:26:06.519 --> 00:26:07.220 Among those. 00:26:07.299 --> 00:26:07.799 Who are poor. 00:26:07.799 --> 00:26:09.720 And yet. 00:26:09.859 --> 00:26:10.919 Even that prince knows. 00:26:10.919 --> 00:26:12.659 That if they lose everything. 00:26:14.680 --> 00:26:16.419 They haven't really lost anything. 00:26:16.619 --> 00:26:17.519 Of permanent value. 00:26:17.619 --> 00:26:18.539 Because back home. 00:26:18.799 --> 00:26:19.559 With the king. 00:26:20.019 --> 00:26:20.980 It's all secure. 00:26:22.279 --> 00:26:24.000 So they can go out into the world. 00:26:24.720 --> 00:26:25.339 And serve. 00:26:25.460 --> 00:26:25.879 And love. 00:26:25.940 --> 00:26:26.500 And lose. 00:26:27.779 --> 00:26:29.720 And do it with complete security. 00:26:30.159 --> 00:26:30.740 And freedom. 00:26:32.339 --> 00:26:34.519 Friend that is true of everyone in Christ. 00:26:35.180 --> 00:26:36.720 What God has promised us. 00:26:36.799 --> 00:26:37.599 Is a great reward. 00:26:37.599 --> 00:26:38.679 One that never spoils. 00:26:38.939 --> 00:26:39.379 Or fades. 00:26:39.439 --> 00:26:40.619 And why does it never spoil. 00:26:40.679 --> 00:26:41.059 Or fade. 00:26:41.899 --> 00:26:42.619 Because ultimately. 00:26:42.740 --> 00:26:43.899 What has God promised us? 00:26:45.659 --> 00:26:46.459 Nothing less. 00:26:46.959 --> 00:26:47.559 Than himself. 00:26:49.559 --> 00:26:51.019 Do you remember what God said to Abraham. 00:26:51.199 --> 00:26:52.159 In Genesis 15. 00:26:52.719 --> 00:26:54.419 When Abraham was doubting the promises. 00:26:55.079 --> 00:26:56.459 And he was looking at his family. 00:26:56.459 --> 00:26:57.799 Which was non-existent. 00:26:57.980 --> 00:26:58.240 And said. 00:26:58.319 --> 00:26:58.599 God. 00:26:58.879 --> 00:27:00.799 The one who is going to inherit my estate. 00:27:01.059 --> 00:27:02.179 Is a distant relative. 00:27:02.259 --> 00:27:02.779 Is a servant. 00:27:04.339 --> 00:27:05.339 What does God tell him? 00:27:06.459 --> 00:27:06.779 He says. 00:27:06.779 --> 00:27:07.139 Abraham. 00:27:08.859 --> 00:27:09.759 I'm your shield. 00:27:10.799 --> 00:27:11.799 I'm your reward. 00:27:12.960 --> 00:27:13.639 Trust me. 00:27:14.920 --> 00:27:16.119 Go out and look at the stars. 00:27:16.960 --> 00:27:17.700 Can you count them? 00:27:18.839 --> 00:27:19.879 A little later he'll tell him. 00:27:20.119 --> 00:27:22.480 Go number the grains of sand on the shore. 00:27:24.059 --> 00:27:25.220 Can you figure it out? 00:27:27.139 --> 00:27:29.079 That's how certain my promise is for you. 00:27:29.079 --> 00:27:33.220 I am your great reward. 00:27:33.220 --> 00:27:35.039 And I keep my promises. 00:27:35.259 --> 00:27:35.419 Friends. 00:27:35.500 --> 00:27:36.000 Don't you see? 00:27:37.119 --> 00:27:39.359 That the reason why you and I in Christ. 00:27:39.500 --> 00:27:42.259 Are like that prince who never fears losing his possession. 00:27:43.419 --> 00:27:45.439 Because he's got the kingdom back home. 00:27:45.440 --> 00:27:49.360 The reason that we can live in that way. 00:27:49.360 --> 00:27:50.700 Is because we know. 00:27:52.120 --> 00:27:53.700 That the true prince. 00:27:54.620 --> 00:27:55.920 Did go forth. 00:27:56.920 --> 00:27:58.500 And lost everything. 00:27:59.480 --> 00:28:01.360 Even lost the father. 00:28:02.519 --> 00:28:04.640 So that you and I could gain everything. 00:28:05.360 --> 00:28:06.779 And never lose the father. 00:28:06.779 --> 00:28:10.079 Jesus died and rose again. 00:28:10.779 --> 00:28:12.940 To take sinners like you and me. 00:28:13.779 --> 00:28:16.160 And to bring us back into the family. 00:28:16.299 --> 00:28:18.960 And to give us a better and abiding possession. 00:28:19.680 --> 00:28:20.940 The father's own heart. 00:28:23.559 --> 00:28:25.180 And that means we can undergo anything. 00:28:27.220 --> 00:28:28.920 And we can do it as Hebrews says. 00:28:29.920 --> 00:28:30.740 With joy. 00:28:31.740 --> 00:28:33.000 Did you see that in verse 34? 00:28:33.000 --> 00:28:33.160 Before. 00:28:34.819 --> 00:28:35.539 It's shocking. 00:28:35.680 --> 00:28:36.059 Isn't it? 00:28:36.920 --> 00:28:38.460 You joyfully accepted. 00:28:38.700 --> 00:28:39.980 The plundering of your property. 00:28:41.720 --> 00:28:43.000 Beth and I have been kind of in and out. 00:28:43.079 --> 00:28:43.779 Traveling a lot. 00:28:44.000 --> 00:28:44.839 The last couple of weeks. 00:28:46.259 --> 00:28:47.220 I'll be honest with you. 00:28:47.299 --> 00:28:48.319 If I came home to my apartment. 00:28:48.480 --> 00:28:49.220 And found that it had been. 00:28:49.700 --> 00:28:50.019 Plundered. 00:28:50.279 --> 00:28:50.779 And looted. 00:28:51.099 --> 00:28:52.920 I don't think I would have faced it with joy. 00:28:53.099 --> 00:28:53.380 Right? 00:28:53.900 --> 00:28:54.700 Where's my TV? 00:28:54.940 --> 00:28:55.839 How am I going to watch Netflix? 00:29:00.940 --> 00:29:01.819 Or maybe a little more. 00:29:01.880 --> 00:29:02.160 Seriously. 00:29:02.160 --> 00:29:03.700 Maybe even more seriously. 00:29:04.040 --> 00:29:05.220 All those memories that I had. 00:29:05.279 --> 00:29:05.960 Now lost. 00:29:06.540 --> 00:29:07.019 Burned. 00:29:07.060 --> 00:29:07.560 Thrown away. 00:29:09.140 --> 00:29:09.580 The safety. 00:29:09.580 --> 00:29:10.160 The safety. 00:29:11.000 --> 00:29:12.200 That I would feel had been lost. 00:29:12.279 --> 00:29:12.860 The security. 00:29:12.980 --> 00:29:14.660 The sense of violation I would feel. 00:29:14.700 --> 00:29:15.860 Are my children now safe? 00:29:16.340 --> 00:29:17.240 Am I now safe? 00:29:20.519 --> 00:29:21.300 And yet. 00:29:22.279 --> 00:29:23.160 Hebrews says. 00:29:23.900 --> 00:29:25.060 They joyfully accepted. 00:29:25.180 --> 00:29:26.340 The plundering of their property. 00:29:29.000 --> 00:29:29.779 You see friends. 00:29:29.880 --> 00:29:30.100 Yes. 00:29:30.099 --> 00:29:31.439 Christianity is a race. 00:29:31.859 --> 00:29:32.639 It's a marathon. 00:29:33.139 --> 00:29:33.699 There is hardship. 00:29:34.019 --> 00:29:34.879 And there is struggle. 00:29:36.199 --> 00:29:37.299 But there is joy. 00:29:39.419 --> 00:29:40.139 Just last week. 00:29:40.199 --> 00:29:40.759 I had the privilege. 00:29:40.759 --> 00:29:42.399 To speak with a pastor from India. 00:29:43.219 --> 00:29:43.939 Who's currently. 00:29:44.139 --> 00:29:45.219 Staying at the OMSC. 00:29:45.559 --> 00:29:46.459 And his church. 00:29:46.719 --> 00:29:48.139 Has undergone intense. 00:29:48.799 --> 00:29:49.279 Persecution. 00:29:50.879 --> 00:29:52.199 Members of his congregation. 00:29:52.419 --> 00:29:53.379 Himself included. 00:29:53.519 --> 00:29:54.459 Had been physically dragged. 00:29:54.519 --> 00:29:54.939 Into the street. 00:29:55.059 --> 00:29:56.059 And beaten by mobs. 00:29:56.059 --> 00:29:57.200 Who hated the name of Christ. 00:29:57.259 --> 00:29:58.259 On various occasions. 00:30:00.200 --> 00:30:00.960 The school. 00:30:01.079 --> 00:30:01.559 That the church. 00:30:01.559 --> 00:30:02.079 Had built. 00:30:02.079 --> 00:30:03.399 To educate orphans. 00:30:03.399 --> 00:30:05.259 Had literally been bulldozed. 00:30:05.259 --> 00:30:06.399 By the local authorities. 00:30:06.599 --> 00:30:07.659 Because they were accused. 00:30:07.720 --> 00:30:08.799 Of proselytizing. 00:30:11.179 --> 00:30:11.740 And yet. 00:30:11.799 --> 00:30:12.519 As we spoke. 00:30:13.319 --> 00:30:14.559 This brother in Christ. 00:30:14.720 --> 00:30:15.799 This fellow pastor. 00:30:15.799 --> 00:30:16.519 Showed me pictures. 00:30:16.519 --> 00:30:17.279 Of the men and women. 00:30:17.279 --> 00:30:18.259 Who are getting baptized. 00:30:18.960 --> 00:30:20.379 In clandestine ways. 00:30:20.379 --> 00:30:21.480 Out in the forest. 00:30:21.720 --> 00:30:22.859 For fear of persecution. 00:30:22.980 --> 00:30:23.679 But getting baptized. 00:30:23.680 --> 00:30:25.860 And he showed me. 00:30:25.940 --> 00:30:26.940 The churches that were growing. 00:30:27.039 --> 00:30:27.560 And the pastors. 00:30:27.560 --> 00:30:28.500 He was raising up. 00:30:29.080 --> 00:30:29.980 And then he showed me. 00:30:30.060 --> 00:30:30.820 The plans. 00:30:31.019 --> 00:30:31.920 Of the school. 00:30:32.120 --> 00:30:32.620 That one day. 00:30:32.680 --> 00:30:33.519 They were going to build. 00:30:33.660 --> 00:30:34.400 On the rubble. 00:30:34.420 --> 00:30:35.039 Of the old one. 00:30:36.900 --> 00:30:37.820 And he recounted. 00:30:37.920 --> 00:30:38.680 All this with joy. 00:30:40.720 --> 00:30:41.120 Friends. 00:30:41.200 --> 00:30:42.160 What could produce. 00:30:42.299 --> 00:30:43.420 Such joy. 00:30:44.759 --> 00:30:45.200 Is it not. 00:30:45.279 --> 00:30:46.539 The grace of Christ. 00:30:48.019 --> 00:30:49.299 That the son of God. 00:30:49.420 --> 00:30:50.519 Shed his own blood. 00:30:50.519 --> 00:30:51.720 To bring me. 00:30:51.920 --> 00:30:52.740 Into the family. 00:30:52.860 --> 00:30:53.320 Of the king. 00:30:53.319 --> 00:30:55.119 And to have an abiding possession. 00:30:57.279 --> 00:30:58.159 How sad. 00:30:58.240 --> 00:30:59.059 That we often think. 00:30:59.179 --> 00:30:59.859 That joy. 00:31:00.099 --> 00:31:00.960 Is found apart. 00:31:00.960 --> 00:31:01.720 From Christ. 00:31:02.419 --> 00:31:03.039 Isn't that why. 00:31:03.159 --> 00:31:04.339 We so often go astray. 00:31:05.019 --> 00:31:05.759 Because we think. 00:31:05.839 --> 00:31:06.359 That happiness. 00:31:06.539 --> 00:31:06.879 That joy. 00:31:07.000 --> 00:31:07.779 Is found in the approval. 00:31:07.779 --> 00:31:08.539 Of our friends. 00:31:09.220 --> 00:31:10.019 Or in the comfort. 00:31:10.079 --> 00:31:10.779 Of a spouse. 00:31:11.339 --> 00:31:12.419 Or in the security. 00:31:12.539 --> 00:31:13.419 Of many possessions. 00:31:14.639 --> 00:31:15.039 Friends. 00:31:15.119 --> 00:31:16.259 None of these things. 00:31:16.799 --> 00:31:17.799 Bring you the depth. 00:31:17.859 --> 00:31:18.359 Of joy. 00:31:19.059 --> 00:31:20.419 That Christ brings. 00:31:22.099 --> 00:31:23.059 The sort of joy. 00:31:23.059 --> 00:31:24.099 That resounds. 00:31:24.460 --> 00:31:25.220 And grows. 00:31:25.819 --> 00:31:27.359 And reaches a fever pitch. 00:31:27.639 --> 00:31:28.480 Even when everything. 00:31:28.480 --> 00:31:29.519 Is stripped away. 00:31:32.599 --> 00:31:33.339 Friend this morning. 00:31:33.379 --> 00:31:34.319 Do you know that joy? 00:31:36.899 --> 00:31:38.099 It's for all of us. 00:31:38.179 --> 00:31:38.720 In Christ. 00:31:39.659 --> 00:31:40.579 I've heard the stories. 00:31:40.579 --> 00:31:41.200 Of some of you. 00:31:41.339 --> 00:31:42.399 I know that you do. 00:31:43.399 --> 00:31:43.879 Remember. 00:31:44.599 --> 00:31:45.379 That joy. 00:31:47.539 --> 00:31:48.179 And friends. 00:31:48.259 --> 00:31:49.379 Endure in the faith. 00:31:49.380 --> 00:31:51.580 Because in Christ. 00:31:51.580 --> 00:31:53.080 There's great reward. 00:31:53.580 --> 00:31:54.080 And the fullness. 00:31:54.540 --> 00:31:55.020 Of joy. 00:31:56.140 --> 00:31:57.040 I think it's fitting. 00:31:57.140 --> 00:31:57.680 That our passage. 00:31:57.880 --> 00:31:58.380 Ends. 00:31:58.460 --> 00:31:59.780 On this stunning. 00:31:59.780 --> 00:32:00.960 Note of confidence. 00:32:01.400 --> 00:32:02.300 We are not. 00:32:02.460 --> 00:32:03.320 Of those who shrink back. 00:32:03.360 --> 00:32:03.920 And are destroyed. 00:32:04.080 --> 00:32:05.460 But of those who have faith. 00:32:05.720 --> 00:32:06.600 And preserve their souls. 00:32:06.720 --> 00:32:07.920 That's pretty categorical. 00:32:08.520 --> 00:32:09.720 That's pretty confident. 00:32:11.120 --> 00:32:12.240 In verse 37 through 39. 00:32:12.300 --> 00:32:12.860 Hebrews quotes. 00:32:12.920 --> 00:32:13.700 The Old Testament prophet. 00:32:13.840 --> 00:32:14.260 Habakkuk. 00:32:14.420 --> 00:32:15.040 Habakkuk too. 00:32:15.100 --> 00:32:16.140 Lived in times of hardship. 00:32:16.140 --> 00:32:17.740 When it seemed like all hope. 00:32:17.900 --> 00:32:18.700 Was lost. 00:32:19.300 --> 00:32:20.620 And God gives him. 00:32:20.860 --> 00:32:22.240 A message to endure. 00:32:23.360 --> 00:32:25.300 My righteous one shall live. 00:32:25.660 --> 00:32:26.580 By faith. 00:32:28.860 --> 00:32:30.640 It's easy to think of our endurance. 00:32:31.060 --> 00:32:31.700 In the faith. 00:32:32.220 --> 00:32:33.720 As our work. 00:32:34.280 --> 00:32:34.720 Isn't it? 00:32:35.860 --> 00:32:37.300 As we think of the Christian life. 00:32:37.380 --> 00:32:37.860 As a marathon. 00:32:38.080 --> 00:32:38.480 As a race. 00:32:38.560 --> 00:32:39.360 We often think. 00:32:39.560 --> 00:32:41.300 That the expression on our faces. 00:32:41.700 --> 00:32:42.720 Is one of grim. 00:32:43.160 --> 00:32:43.520 Self. 00:32:43.840 --> 00:32:44.220 Effort. 00:32:44.380 --> 00:32:45.180 As we push. 00:32:45.400 --> 00:32:46.120 Toward the finish line. 00:32:46.119 --> 00:32:49.079 But no friends. 00:32:49.159 --> 00:32:49.639 The righteous. 00:32:50.219 --> 00:32:50.659 Live. 00:32:51.379 --> 00:32:52.159 By faith. 00:32:53.379 --> 00:32:55.099 In response to. 00:32:55.419 --> 00:32:56.919 And resting in. 00:32:57.199 --> 00:32:58.759 The grace of God in Christ. 00:33:00.539 --> 00:33:02.019 Why is Hebrews so confident. 00:33:02.019 --> 00:33:02.719 That we are. 00:33:02.839 --> 00:33:03.519 Of those of faith. 00:33:04.479 --> 00:33:05.539 Why is he so confident. 00:33:05.639 --> 00:33:06.339 That we will. 00:33:07.819 --> 00:33:08.879 Persevere to the end. 00:33:11.159 --> 00:33:12.559 Because for ten chapters. 00:33:12.919 --> 00:33:13.759 He's been telling us. 00:33:13.839 --> 00:33:14.539 About the one. 00:33:14.539 --> 00:33:15.420 In whom. 00:33:15.420 --> 00:33:15.440 In whom. 00:33:15.659 --> 00:33:16.379 We put our faith. 00:33:17.579 --> 00:33:18.720 The one who endured. 00:33:19.220 --> 00:33:20.139 That judgment. 00:33:20.279 --> 00:33:21.099 That is so fearful. 00:33:22.099 --> 00:33:23.339 The one who won. 00:33:23.659 --> 00:33:24.359 The reward. 00:33:24.519 --> 00:33:24.940 For us. 00:33:25.000 --> 00:33:26.000 Through his righteous life. 00:33:26.879 --> 00:33:28.079 The one who ran. 00:33:28.299 --> 00:33:29.420 The race before us. 00:33:29.579 --> 00:33:31.019 And broke open the gates. 00:33:31.579 --> 00:33:32.980 So that we can enter in. 00:33:33.119 --> 00:33:34.460 So that we can be brought in. 00:33:35.059 --> 00:33:35.899 In his train. 00:33:38.799 --> 00:33:39.220 Friends. 00:33:39.220 --> 00:33:39.880 We run this race. 00:33:39.880 --> 00:33:39.900 We run this race. 00:33:39.900 --> 00:33:40.640 Not in grim. 00:33:40.640 --> 00:33:41.539 Self-effort. 00:33:41.620 --> 00:33:42.460 But we run this race. 00:33:42.539 --> 00:33:42.980 Together. 00:33:44.299 --> 00:33:45.319 Behind Christ. 00:33:45.440 --> 00:33:46.400 Our forerunner. 00:33:46.779 --> 00:33:47.779 Who secured. 00:33:47.900 --> 00:33:48.579 Our victory. 00:33:50.000 --> 00:33:51.220 The look on our faces. 00:33:51.220 --> 00:33:52.200 Is one of joy. 00:33:52.960 --> 00:33:53.880 Of gladly. 00:33:53.880 --> 00:33:54.900 Pressing on. 00:33:54.960 --> 00:33:55.680 Because he. 00:33:56.100 --> 00:33:56.860 Pressed on. 00:33:57.079 --> 00:33:57.720 For us. 00:33:57.779 --> 00:33:58.500 Because he. 00:33:58.779 --> 00:33:59.180 Endured. 00:33:59.339 --> 00:33:59.880 The hardest. 00:34:00.279 --> 00:34:00.640 Struggle. 00:34:01.559 --> 00:34:02.259 And won. 00:34:04.900 --> 00:34:05.940 So brothers and sisters. 00:34:06.100 --> 00:34:06.559 Endure. 00:34:06.559 --> 00:34:07.599 In the faith. 00:34:08.639 --> 00:34:09.679 When the pressures mount. 00:34:09.759 --> 00:34:10.920 When the doubts creep in. 00:34:11.119 --> 00:34:12.059 Don't be surprised. 00:34:13.139 --> 00:34:14.079 Christianity is not. 00:34:14.360 --> 00:34:15.179 A day at the beach. 00:34:15.579 --> 00:34:16.639 Christian life is not a picnic. 00:34:16.840 --> 00:34:18.000 Amidst the wildflowers. 00:34:18.340 --> 00:34:19.019 Although we are going to have. 00:34:19.019 --> 00:34:20.000 Some of these picnics this summer. 00:34:20.059 --> 00:34:20.619 We hope you'll come. 00:34:22.059 --> 00:34:22.420 Ultimately. 00:34:22.539 --> 00:34:23.820 The Christian life is a race. 00:34:24.059 --> 00:34:24.920 To be run. 00:34:27.840 --> 00:34:28.679 But here's the message. 00:34:28.679 --> 00:34:29.460 Of the gospel friends. 00:34:29.539 --> 00:34:30.159 It's a race. 00:34:30.360 --> 00:34:31.179 That's been won. 00:34:33.360 --> 00:34:34.380 So let us run. 00:34:34.519 --> 00:34:35.199 With joy. 00:34:35.820 --> 00:34:36.179 Together. 00:34:37.179 --> 00:34:38.199 In the spirit. 00:34:38.380 --> 00:34:39.019 Of grace. 00:34:39.659 --> 00:34:40.679 Following Christ. 00:34:41.299 --> 00:34:42.099 Our forerunner. 00:34:42.739 --> 00:34:43.679 And our great reward. 00:34:44.759 --> 00:34:45.440 Let's pray. 00:34:51.159 --> 00:34:52.000 Oh Lord Jesus. 00:34:52.119 --> 00:34:52.639 We pray. 00:34:52.880 --> 00:34:54.320 That you would send your spirit. 00:34:55.019 --> 00:34:56.759 And blow into our hearts. 00:34:57.719 --> 00:34:59.019 The deep encouragement. 00:34:59.019 --> 00:34:59.860 That we need. 00:35:01.199 --> 00:35:02.239 To hold fast. 00:35:02.340 --> 00:35:02.980 In these days. 00:35:02.980 --> 00:35:05.039 Lord. 00:35:05.039 --> 00:35:06.460 Give us a very real sense. 00:35:06.460 --> 00:35:07.260 Of these warnings. 00:35:07.360 --> 00:35:08.240 And what's at stake. 00:35:08.300 --> 00:35:09.199 In following you. 00:35:10.360 --> 00:35:10.940 And God. 00:35:11.019 --> 00:35:11.860 Lift up our eyes. 00:35:11.860 --> 00:35:12.820 To the great joy. 00:35:12.940 --> 00:35:14.219 That we have in you. 00:35:16.840 --> 00:35:17.780 And most of all. 00:35:17.820 --> 00:35:18.039 Lord. 00:35:18.099 --> 00:35:19.699 Help us to see you. 00:35:20.099 --> 00:35:21.099 Our forerunner. 00:35:21.159 --> 00:35:21.699 And victor. 00:35:24.159 --> 00:35:24.559 Jesus. 00:35:24.679 --> 00:35:25.199 We thank you. 00:35:25.240 --> 00:35:25.619 That in you. 00:35:25.719 --> 00:35:27.599 There is sufficient sacrifice. 00:35:27.599 --> 00:35:28.480 For sins. 00:35:29.559 --> 00:35:30.500 That there is fullness. 00:35:30.500 --> 00:35:31.400 Of your spirit. 00:35:33.159 --> 00:35:33.519 God. 00:35:33.559 --> 00:35:33.960 Help us. 00:35:34.019 --> 00:35:34.860 To do this together. 00:35:35.579 --> 00:35:36.619 That we might encourage. 00:35:36.619 --> 00:35:37.259 One another. 00:35:37.599 --> 00:35:38.779 For the great race. 00:35:38.779 --> 00:35:39.440 Of faith. 00:35:40.719 --> 00:35:41.219 And God. 00:35:41.259 --> 00:35:41.500 I pray. 00:35:41.559 --> 00:35:42.119 That as a church. 00:35:42.179 --> 00:35:43.659 As we run this race. 00:35:43.659 --> 00:35:44.879 Lord. 00:35:44.940 --> 00:35:45.759 That the vision. 00:35:46.879 --> 00:35:48.199 That our city would get. 00:35:48.279 --> 00:35:49.339 Is not of a bunch of. 00:35:49.719 --> 00:35:50.119 Grim. 00:35:50.480 --> 00:35:51.599 Self-determined. 00:35:52.119 --> 00:35:52.659 Religious. 00:35:52.980 --> 00:35:53.259 People. 00:35:53.359 --> 00:35:54.799 But of those who are glad. 00:35:55.139 --> 00:35:55.879 In Christ. 00:35:56.859 --> 00:35:57.859 And that they would catch. 00:35:57.960 --> 00:35:58.579 The aroma. 00:35:58.759 --> 00:35:59.500 Of Christ. 00:36:00.000 --> 00:36:00.960 And that they too. 00:36:01.199 --> 00:36:02.319 Would be caught up. 00:36:02.960 --> 00:36:03.799 In your train. 00:36:05.139 --> 00:36:06.759 And place their trust in you. 00:36:08.279 --> 00:36:08.699 God. 00:36:08.739 --> 00:36:09.819 And that we would begin to see. 00:36:09.899 --> 00:36:10.399 The renewal. 00:36:10.579 --> 00:36:11.859 That we so long to see. 00:36:11.860 --> 00:36:14.820 Father. 00:36:14.880 --> 00:36:15.380 We pray this. 00:36:15.420 --> 00:36:16.300 In the name of Jesus. 00:36:16.640 --> 00:36:17.840 And in the power of your spirit. 00:36:18.840 --> 00:36:19.180 Amen.