Finding Rest and Faith in Christ's Supremacy
Summary
### Summary
Today, we embark on the "Let Us" series, focusing on the book of Hebrews. The Hebrews were Jewish converts to Christianity who faced persecution and were tempted to revert to their old ways. The author of Hebrews addresses their pride in their Jewish heritage and religious practices, emphasizing that these were mere shadows of the reality found in Jesus Christ. The message is clear: our reliance must be on Christ, not on traditions or past religious practices.
The author of Hebrews uses various titles to describe Jesus, such as "Heir of all things," "Creator," "Radiance of God's glory," and "Sustainer of all things." These titles highlight the supremacy of Christ, making it clear that He is greater than angels and all other beings. The call to "let us fear" in Hebrews 4:1-3 is not about being afraid but about recognizing God's sovereignty and holiness. It is a call to be careful in obeying and listening to God, as His word is faithful and true.
The concept of "Sabbath rest" is introduced, which is not just a physical rest but a spiritual one found in Christ. This rest is available to all who come to Jesus, who promises rest for the weary and burdened. The physical activities of life can be exhausting, but God calls us to find rest in Him through meditation on His word and entering His presence. This rest was exemplified by the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, which symbolized a place of rest in Christ.
The sermon also touches on the importance of mixing the word of God with faith. Just as the Israelites had to mix manna with herbs, we must mix the word with faith for it to benefit us. This act of faith involves engaging in spiritual battles and trusting in God's promises. The land flowing with milk and honey symbolizes the abundance and continuity of God's blessings, which are limited only by our imagination and faith.
In conclusion, the "Let Us" series encourages us to enter God's rest, abide by His promises, and grow in our faith. It is a collective journey, and we are called to do it together, relying on Christ and His word.
### Key Takeaways
1. Supremacy of Christ: The titles given to Jesus in Hebrews highlight His supremacy over all things, including angels. He is the "Heir of all things," "Creator," and "Radiance of God's glory." Recognizing these titles helps us understand the magnitude of who Christ is and why our faith should be anchored in Him.
2. Sabbath Rest in Christ: The concept of Sabbath rest is not just about physical rest but a spiritual rest found in Jesus. This rest is available to all who come to Him, offering relief from the weariness of daily life. It is a call to enter His presence and find peace and renewal.
3. Mixing the Word with Faith: Just as the Israelites had to mix manna with herbs, we must mix the word of God with faith for it to benefit us. This involves meditating on the word and allowing it to transform us, exchanging our weariness for the strength found in God's promises.
4. Abundance in Christ: The land flowing with milk and honey symbolizes the abundance and continuity of God's blessings. Our faith and imagination limit what God can do in our lives. Believing in God's ability to provide abundantly opens the door to experiencing His fullness.
5. Collective Journey of Faith: The "Let Us" series emphasizes the importance of a collective journey in faith. We are called to do this together, supporting and encouraging one another as we grow in our relationship with Christ. This collective effort strengthens our faith and helps us abide by God's promises.
### YouTube Chapters
- Welcome
- Background of Hebrews
- The Shadow of Old Practices
- Titles of Jesus
- Let Us Fear
- Entering God's Rest
- David's Encouragement
- The Problem of Unbelief
- Abundance in Christ
- Collective Journey of Faith
- Prayer and Reflection
- Conclusion and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 1:1-10 - Titles of Jesus and His Supremacy
2. Hebrews 4:1-3 - Entering God's Rest
3. Colossians 2:16-17 - Shadows of the Old Practices
#### Observation Questions
1. What are some of the titles given to Jesus in Hebrews 1:1-10, and what do they signify about His nature and role? [07:31]
2. According to Hebrews 4:1-3, what does the author mean by "let us fear," and how does it relate to entering God's rest? [08:06]
3. In Colossians 2:16-17, what does Paul mean when he says that religious festivals, new moons, and Sabbaths are "a shadow of the things to come"? [03:10]
4. How does the concept of "Sabbath rest" in Hebrews 4:1-3 differ from the traditional Jewish understanding of the Sabbath? [10:36]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the author of Hebrews emphasize the supremacy of Christ over angels and other beings? How does this help the Jewish converts understand their new faith? [07:31]
2. What does it mean to "mix the word of God with faith," and why is this important for experiencing the benefits of God's promises? [19:46]
3. How does the idea of a "land flowing with milk and honey" serve as a metaphor for the abundance and continuity of God's blessings in our lives? [21:56]
4. What are the implications of viewing our faith journey as a collective effort, as emphasized in the "Let Us" series? How does this shape our understanding of community and support within the church? [24:11]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the titles given to Jesus in Hebrews 1:1-10. How does recognizing these titles impact your personal faith and relationship with Christ? [07:31]
2. The sermon mentions the importance of entering God's rest through meditation and being in His presence. What practical steps can you take this week to find spiritual rest amidst your daily activities? [10:36]
3. How can you actively mix the word of God with faith in your daily life? Share a specific instance where you can apply this principle. [19:46]
4. The concept of a "land flowing with milk and honey" symbolizes God's abundant blessings. Identify an area in your life where you need to trust God for His abundant provision. How can you increase your faith in this area? [21:56]
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of a collective journey in faith. How can you contribute to the spiritual growth and support of your small group or church community? [24:11]
6. Reflect on a time when you relied on traditions or past religious practices rather than on Christ. How can you shift your focus to rely more on Jesus in your current spiritual journey? [03:10]
7. The sermon calls us to recognize God's sovereignty and holiness. How can you cultivate a reverential fear of God in your daily life, and what changes might this bring about in your actions and decisions? [08:06]
This guide aims to foster a deeper understanding of the sermon and encourage practical application of its teachings in your daily life.
Devotional
Day 1: The Supremacy of Christ
Jesus is described in the book of Hebrews with titles that emphasize His supremacy over all things, including angels. He is the "Heir of all things," "Creator," and "Radiance of God's glory." These titles help us understand the magnitude of who Christ is and why our faith should be anchored in Him. Recognizing these titles is crucial for deepening our relationship with Jesus and understanding His unparalleled authority and power.
By acknowledging Christ's supremacy, we are reminded that our reliance should be on Him alone, not on traditions or past religious practices. This understanding helps us to place our trust and faith in Jesus, knowing that He is greater than any other being or entity. It encourages us to seek Him first in all things, recognizing His ultimate authority and power in our lives.
Hebrews 1:3-4 (ESV): "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs."
Reflection: How does recognizing the supremacy of Christ change the way you approach your daily challenges and decisions? Can you identify an area in your life where you need to trust more in His authority and power?
Day 2: Sabbath Rest in Christ
The concept of Sabbath rest introduced in Hebrews is not just about physical rest but a spiritual rest found in Jesus. This rest is available to all who come to Him, offering relief from the weariness of daily life. It is a call to enter His presence and find peace and renewal. Jesus promises rest for the weary and burdened, inviting us to lay down our struggles and find solace in Him.
This spiritual rest is a profound experience that goes beyond mere physical relaxation. It involves meditating on God's word, entering His presence, and allowing His peace to fill our hearts. The Israelites' journey to the Promised Land symbolizes this rest in Christ, a place where we can find true peace and renewal. By embracing this rest, we can experience a deeper connection with God and a sense of tranquility that transcends our daily struggles.
Matthew 11:28-29 (ESV): "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Reflection: What burdens are you carrying today that you need to lay down at the feet of Jesus? How can you intentionally enter into His rest and find peace in His presence?
Day 3: Mixing the Word with Faith
Just as the Israelites had to mix manna with herbs, we must mix the word of God with faith for it to benefit us. This involves meditating on the word and allowing it to transform us, exchanging our weariness for the strength found in God's promises. Engaging in spiritual battles and trusting in God's promises are essential aspects of this act of faith.
By mixing the word with faith, we allow it to take root in our hearts and produce lasting change. It requires us to actively engage with the scriptures, believe in God's promises, and apply them to our lives. This process strengthens our faith and helps us to overcome challenges, knowing that God's word is faithful and true.
Hebrews 4:2 (ESV): "For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened."
Reflection: How can you actively mix the word of God with faith in your daily life? What specific promises of God do you need to hold onto and believe in today?
Day 4: Abundance in Christ
The land flowing with milk and honey symbolizes the abundance and continuity of God's blessings. Our faith and imagination limit what God can do in our lives. Believing in God's ability to provide abundantly opens the door to experiencing His fullness. This abundance is not just material but also spiritual, encompassing all aspects of our lives.
By trusting in God's provision and believing in His promises, we can experience the fullness of His blessings. This requires us to expand our faith and imagination, allowing God to work in ways beyond our understanding. It encourages us to seek His guidance and provision in all areas of our lives, knowing that He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think.
Ephesians 3:20-21 (ESV): "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to trust God for His abundant provision? How can you expand your faith and imagination to believe in His ability to provide beyond your expectations?
Day 5: Collective Journey of Faith
The "Let Us" series emphasizes the importance of a collective journey in faith. We are called to do this together, supporting and encouraging one another as we grow in our relationship with Christ. This collective effort strengthens our faith and helps us abide by God's promises.
By journeying together in faith, we can support and uplift one another, sharing our experiences and learning from each other. This collective journey fosters a sense of community and belonging, helping us to grow stronger in our faith. It reminds us that we are not alone in our spiritual walk and that we can rely on the support and encouragement of our fellow believers.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: How can you actively participate in the collective journey of faith within your community? What steps can you take to support and encourage others in their spiritual walk today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "So, the writer of Hebrews comes to tell them or to warn them about things they needed to be very careful of. So, the Judaizers or these people were particularly proud of their Jewish Christian background. So, they were much more proud about their religion, their heritage, and the practices in Judaism. And out of these persecutions and out of this suffering, they did want to go back, as I said. They boasted about the law, the priesthood, the sacrifices. They talked so much about their temple, the heritage, the Sabbath, the angels, and being the faithfulness of Moses. So, the author addresses these people by saying that, look, all these things you are boasting about were a shadow. It is past because the fulfillment has been found in Jesus Christ. Amen." (68 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Let us be careful to enter. Let us find this rest. And so Jesus says that come unto me all you who are weary and laden and I will give you rest. He wants rest for you. So when God created the whole universe, they were physical activities. He created the earth, the moon, the stars, the fish, all those things. The Bible says on the seventh day which the Bible calls the Sabbath day. And I'm not going to go into that. God rested. It is not that God was so tired that he was physically exhausted. But that Sabbath was representing someone called Jesus Christ." (56 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Are you tired? We are all tired. Weariness in the mind. The issues we think about, the debt and the credit cards and the driving to work and all those things have the propensity to make us tired in the mind. But God is calling us to rest. Amen. Will you find time in the days, of your life and rest in his presence. And rest in his presence. And get your mind off the things you are worried about. And be renewed in yourself." (45 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Come unto me or you are weary. And I will give you rest. So God has given us, an invitation. God has given us an invitation just as he himself rested from his physical activity and trusted in the promised work of Christ. But the problem is, one, unbelief. Hebrews chapter 4 1 to 3 says that the Israelites went through the promised land and got to a point where unbelief started settling in." (38 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So if you think that God is able to do abundantly above all that you can ask or think, He will do it. Hallelujah. And so he says, I'm taking you to an exceeding land, flowing. He didn't use the word dripping. He didn't use the word sparingly. He said the land is flowing with milk and with honey. Christ is flowing with abundance of life. And it's how you allow Him. So if the Lord is your light and your salvation, He will be. But if you are worried and afraid that God is not able to do, that is what will happen." (43 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Let us fear. It's not talking about the fear of an enemy. The fear or the dread. But it's talking about recognition of God's sovereignty. Recognition of who God says he is. Being aware of his holiness. Being aware of his word. He is faithful to his word. What God has said he fulfills. What God has said he will do. God's word cannot be denied. We are not honest to ourselves but God is honest to himself and to his word. So he says that let us be careful in obeying God. Let us be careful in listening to God. Because God always uses an example from the past. The Israelites failed to enter God's promises, God's rest and we will touch on that." (61 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "David crafted some time and prayed. David crafted some time and meditated. And the Lord gave him a strategy. He says, go after them. You will recover. God expects you to recover. God is not happy looking at you going through the stresses and the motions of life as if he doesn't care. He has already provided a way. And that is through Jesus. And this is what Jesus said. I have come that you will have life and have it more abundantly. There is abundance life, abundance of life in Christ Jesus. But you must find that time and enter in. You must find that time and go for it. And find rest for your soul." (61 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Lord expects you to sit down and mix the word with faith and consume it. The Lord expects you to sit down and meditate on the word, that has been spoken to you. And make conscious effort to exchange the goodness of the word of God with weariness from your life. And by so doing, you see the exchange of strength. You exchange your weakness, your weariness, with the strength of his word, with the promises of his word. And by so doing, you become a different person. You become a different person on a daily basis. Hallelujah. And that is true faith." (52 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So, in your mind, if God can only supply you one pound, then that is your faith. If God can supply you a billion pounds, that is your faith. He is able to do the extent of your imagination. He said to this woman that bring all the empty cans in your house and start pouring the little oil you have. And the Bible said the oil could only stop when there was no empty can. So it tells me that if there was a 10,000 liter barrel, this woman could still have poured it. You can only limit God by your imagination." (45 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "As I bring this session to a close, I'm being mindful 24 minutes already. I could have gone on and on, but I want to spare you. I want to encourage you to learn how to enter. Have you learned how to enter God's rest? And as we meditate on this and pray, how do you find time to enter? Naturally, we keep going on and on and on, and we don't want to stop. But this morning, there's an invitation for you to enter into His rest where you find rest for your soul. Sometimes it's about lying in the presence of the Lord and just meditating on Him and just offloading your burdens to Him. For in Him we live, we move, and have our being." (-839 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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