Overview: In Hebrews 13 we are challenged as believers to establish genuine love in our hearts. This chapter is going to show us how to walk in the boldness of God’s spirit and being free from religion. Lastly, the author wants to clearly explain what it means to truly serve the body of Christ, and your spiritual leaders.
Hebrews 13:1-5
1. As Christians we are called to display authentic love towards our brethren that would be manifested and tangible. (Hebrews 13:1-4; Romans 12:10)
2. How can we show authentic love?
a. Hospitality- By showing love and show hospitality to even strangers some we are unaware of could be angels. (Genesis 18:1-8; 19:1-3) This could mean welcoming with open arms people who you don’t know personally. This doesn’t mean not to use wisdom but it does mean open up and extend your services.
b. Sympathy- By remembering those who are bound in chains. (Hebrews 13:3; Matthew 25:36)
c. Fidelity- Honoring you marriage (Hebrews 13:4; 1 Corinthians 7:38)
d. Contentment- Having a satisfaction with what you have (Hebrews 13:5)
Build your relationship with God Hebrews 13:6-9
3. The best way for us to become more content is when we begin to have a complete satisfaction of Jesus being sufficient for our wants and needs.
a. Coveteous- to have an inordinate desire for unjust gain, or something belonging to someone else; to simply desire or strive for
b. Christians who become materialistic are displaying by their actions that God can’t take care of them well not in a way that they find as satisfying to their soul.
c. If you need materials of this world to satisfy you then your passions and desires of this world has not been crucified. (Galatians 5:24)
d. God satisfies our souls. ARE YOU SATISFIED WITH JESUS?
4. The Lord is our Helper and we shall not fear what man can do to us.
a. If God be for us then who or what can be against us it is God who justifies
5. Hebrews 13:7
a. As a Christian “those who have rule over you” would be the elders and church leaders. These leaders desire much respect, honor because they have taught you, modeled for you what you needed to know about Christian living. Continue to follow the examples of those who have invested in your life.
b. Those that have rule over you are held accountable for your soul so you should serve them with joy.
Draw near with God by keeping your eyes on Christ
6. Hebrews 13:8-14
a. Jesus is NOT changing and never has changed so pay close attention to HIS doctrines. Stick with the basics of Jesus. You can’t afford to allow yourself to be swayed away from God by false doctrines.
b. Christ will never change. Meaning that Christ is loving, caring, compassionate, forgiving, and merciful. He has been and will forever will be the same.
c. Apparently, some still taught that you had to keep some of the old testament rituals, laws, ceremonies, such as eating and not eating certain foods.
7. Hebrews 13:15
a. The sacrifice that we make is the sacrifice of praise and worship unto God at the altar with a true heart.
b. Those who worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth. Not in blood sacrifices and hypocrisy.
8. Pray for us: Leaders
a. Christian leaders are vulnerable to criticism from other, pride (if they succeed), depression if they fail, and Satan has constant effort to water down their work.
b. Leaders are in desperate need of your prayers.