Monday, November 15, 2021

Hebrews 7 | 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 | Unlike Any Other | Hebrews 7

Hebrews 7 introduces the second main section of the book. This section extends through Hebrews 10 and focuses on the superior priesthood. In this section the author will expand on Jesus as the great high priest, understanding Jewish sacrifices, Melchizedek, and temple worship in Jerusalem. In Hebrews 7 we learn more about Melchizedek and his role as an eternal priest. The author uses him as an example to discourage the first-century church from returning to Jewish customs instead of following Jesus. This chapter in Scripture can be more cerebral and require us to think more about Scripture and deeper Theological topics. Make sure to open your time in prayer before studying this section and growing in your faith. 

1) In Genesis 14 we learn that Abraham went into battle to rescue his nephew lot from the kings that captured him. Think about a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone to help someone in trouble. How did it end up? 

2) Read Hebrews 7:1-3. Melchizedek is called the king of righteousness and peace. We live in a time when many of us need peace in our lives more than ever. Read Ephesians 2:14 and Isaiah 9:6. Where do you need peace in your life? 

3) Scholars have written much on the lineage of Melchizedek. Some people think that he is Jesus in the flesh and others disagree. Do you think it’s possible for Melchizedek to be Jesus in the flesh? Why or why not? Support with Scripture. 

4) Read Hebrews 7:4. Abraham saw the greatness of Melchizedek and gave him an offering of ten percent. Giving is a very personal part of our walk with Jesus but also reveals where our heart is. What did this sermon teach you about Biblical giving?  

5) In Hebrews 7:11-21 the author brings up the old covenant and the priesthood. How was the old covenant unable to help us achieve perfection (read Hebrews 10:1-4)? What of your old life do you need to leave behind to follow fully after Jesus? 

6) Read Hebrews 7:22-28. We learn that Jesus is able to intercede for us because He lives forever. Read Luke 11:9-10, John 16:23, and Romans 8:34. What would change in your prayer life if you asked Jesus to intercede for you? 

7) In Hebrews 7:26 we read about the greatness of Jesus. Neal asked us what one of these characteristics we need to work on. Read 1 Peter 1:16, Philippians 1:10, and 2 Timothy 2:22 and share your answer. 

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

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