Monday, October 18, 2021

Hebrews 4:14-5:10 | Small Group Questions






Coastline Bible Church just started a brand new sermon series called: "Greater." For the next several months we are going to look through the book of Hebrews together. The book of Hebrews was written to a Jewish audience living in the first century. They are likely experiencing persecution and thinking about abandoning their faith. The author teaches us how Jesus is greater than: the prophets, angels, Moses, Abraham, the Law, the old covenant, and the high priest. We learn that Jesus is greater than anything that has preceded Him. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Our Great High Priest | Hebrews 4:14-5:10

As move into Hebrews 4 and 5 we are introduced to a new title for Jesus: our great high priest. No other priest has ever held this role in the past. The role of the high priest is an Old Testament role originating with Aaron in the book of Exodus. The role a familial role first held by Aaron and then by his sons. In the Old Testament the high priest had to be from the tribe of Levi. It’s helpful to know that was not a man-appointed role but a God-appointed role. In our text this week we learn about how Jesus is our great high priest and what He accomplished to receive this title. It’s important for the author to teach this lesson to the early church because it would encourage them to continue in spiritual maturity and discourage returning to the old covenant. 

1) Neal shared a story with us about traveling to Germany as a young boy. Think about a time when you traveled to a foreign country or different area. What stood out to you about the language, mannerisms, and culture of that area? 

2) Read Hebrews 4:14-16. Focus on verse 15. So often people stick with us when things are going well, but this text teaches us that Jesus is near us in our weaknesses. Share a time that Jesus drew near in your weakness’.

3) In Matthew 4:1-11 we read about the temptation of Jesus. Jesus was tempted in every way we’ve ever been tempted. Read Matthew 6:13, 1 Corinthians 10:13, and 1 Timothy 6:9. Where are you most susceptible to falling into temptation? 

4) Sometimes it’s difficult to accept the mercy of Jesus and live in the grace of God. Read John 1:14-17, Romans 3:23-24, Ephesians 2:8-10, and James 5:11. How does these passages help you understand grace and mercy more?

5) Read Hebrews 5:1-4. The point is that Jesus deals gently with all sinners who come to Him irrespective of their particular offense. Where do you need to learn to be gentle with those who are ignorant and going astray? 

6) Picture Jesus praying to the Father as in Hebrews 5:7 describes. How was His prayer life like yours? How was it different? After reading this passage what do you want to change/adjust in your prayer life? 

7) Read Hebrews 5:7-10. Now, Jesus couldn’t be disobedient to God that would be contrary to His nature but Jesus learned what is involved in obedience. How are you growing in obedience to the word of God? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

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