Duties Of Christian Faith. Heb 13:1-25

In the final chapter of Hebrews,  the author gives a series of exhortations for christian living.  The readers were exhorted to continue in their brotherly. In the past  they have demonstrated such love one to another (6:10). This love should not be limited to only brethren. They must demonstrate this love to strangers by showing hospitality. Since Christians were traveling to escape persecution and for ministry, it was a needed grace at that time. The author refers to Old Testament incidents to show that this would bring unexpected blessing from God(Gen 18,19). They were also encouraged to remember those who are in prison  for their faith. Their needs must not be forgotten. They were also urged  take their  marriage seriously and remain faithful to one another. The author  expresses God's approval of marriage and His blessing upon it (Gen 2:18-25). They were reminded of the price one has to pay for adultery and immorality. It will bring shame, disgrace and distrust upon family as well as to the cause of Christ. The author warns that God will judge them. They were also admonished against greediness. They are to be content with what they have. The basis of contentment is found in the promise of God. "I will never fail you,nor forsake you"(Deut 31:6,8; Josh 1:5). When we have such assurance of care, we can confidently say "God is my helper and I will not be afraid"(Psalm 118:6).These instructions are equally important and applicable in our lives.

The readers are exhorted to remember and follow those who taught them the Word of God(13:7). They probably had died but remember the outcome of their lives  and follow their example. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. So be loyal to Him and to the  new covenant. Do not be attracted to the ceremonial rules about food or traditions. They are useless. But your spiritual strength comes from God's grace. We have an alter. This is a reference to the sacrifice Christ offered on the cross. The sacrifice of the day of atonement was a type of Christ' death on the cross.  On the day of atonement, the bodies of animals were burned outside the camp.  Priest were not allowed to eat  of the sacrifice offered on the day of atonement. So also Jesus suffered and died outside the city gate. Under the new covenant believers are privileged to partake of the blessings of Christ perfect sacrifice. The writer encourages his readers to go out side the gate bearing the reproach Christ bore(13:13). Christians must be prepared to suffer shame and separation for Christ.

The author introduces a new concept of sacrifices and call upon the readers to offer the  sacrifice of praise to God continually(13:15,16). Also they were encouraged to do good and share what they have with those in need. In such sacrifices, God is well pleased. They are to obey their spiritual leaders. Such obedience make it possible for them to fulfill their responsibilities with joy. They are accountable to God. The author requests prayer for himself and others who are with him. He is confident that their prayer will hasten his return. Then added the benediction which is addressed to the God of peace.This peace is the result of new covenant which Christ has established once for all. He is our great shepherd who is able to keep us safe and produce in us that which is pleasing in His sight through the new covenant. This prayer ends with ascribing glory and praise to Jesus Christ(13:21).

The writer ends this epistle with an appeal.  He wants his readers to listen willingly his word of exhortation  about Christ who is the complete and final revelation of God. He wants his readers to know that Timothy has been set free from prison. Many scholars hold the view that, the mention of Timothy here suggests, perhaps Apostle Paul wrote the epistle of Hebrews. The author expresses the desire that he and Timothy may together visit the readers to whom this letter was addressed. The readers are asked to greet their church leaders and to all fellow believers there. The phrase "Christians from Italy" may suggests that  this letter was written to or from there. The author closes this letter by wishing God's grace upon all the readers of this epistle. May God bless you all. Amen

Fix Your Eyes Upon Jesus. Heb 12:1-29

After explaining examples of the heroes of faith, the author exhorts the readers to fix their eyes upon Jesus the supreme example of faith. Christian life is a race and it must be run with patience looking unto Jesus. Heroes of faith testify us of the power of faith and we must follow their example. Christ is the beginning and the end of Christian life. He is the pioneer and the perfecter of our faith.  Consider the example of Christ  who willingly endured the cross despising the shame of death because of the joy of becoming the redeemer of the world. Christ's example would motivate us to lay aside every form of sin  that hinders our spiritual progress. Consider, how much greater was Christ's suffering than ours and the eternal blessings of it. The writer reminds the readers that though they suffered scorn and opposition, they have not suffered death. So let us run the race set before us by looking to Jesus who is seated at the right of God in heaven.

From verses 5 to 13, the writer encourages the readers to regard their suffering as fatherly discipline of God.
Here the author quotes proverbs 3:11-12. This suffering is actually a growth process in their spiritual life. Suffering  is not always the proof of sin.Though Christ was sinless,He learned obedience through suffering and became the author of eternal life(5:8,9). The discipline of these readers are compared with the suffering of Christ. God's children receive His chastening. Believers who sin and never be chastened are not actually saved. God disciplines us so that we might share in His holiness. In fact chastening is a training process to get in shape spiritually. Chastening gives assurance of God's love towards us. No disciple is joyous for a while but afterward it will yield peaceable fruit of righteousness(12:11).

So readers are encouraged to stand firm on their shaky legs so that they may not become spiritually disable. Pursue straight path, so that you may not be dislocated and get worse. When few slip away from faith, it is easier for many to fall. So encourage each other and live in harmony. Christians must try to live in peace with everyone. Also they should live a consecrated  or holy life. Without holiness no one will see God. Practical sanctification is essential for growing into the likeness of Christ(1 Thess 5:23). The writer warns the danger of
apostasy. Apostates would not receive the blessings of the grace of God. Apostates are the defectors from the truth though they profess to be Christians. They are like poisonous root that corrupt many by their doubts and denials. It can lead to immorality and godlessness(2 Peter 2:10).  Esau  is an example. He traded his birthright for a single meal. Afterward when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected. It was too late for Isaac to change his mind or reverse the blessing. Those who willingly renounce Christ for worldly gains or pleasure, can not be renewed to repentance. Such is the solemn warning against apostates.

In verses 18 to 29 , a comparison is drawn between old covenant and new covenant. Here the writer warns the danger of obeying the old covenant and rejecting the new covenant which Christ established.  The old covenant was inaccessible and intimidating. Like rest of the warning, the purpose of this warning is to prevent the readers from turning way from Christ and His blessing.  The scene of Mount Sinai was one of blackness of darkness and fearful.. Men and animals  faced death even by touching where God stood( Ex 19:12,13). Moses said about this place that "I am terrified and trembling"(12:21). But Under the new covenant,  we come to a figurative mount Zion, which is the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. Those who believe in Christ have access to this place under the new covenant. They will enjoy it's fullest blessing when Lord returns.

Angels minister there. This is the place of  the general assembly and where the church of the firstborn are assembled. There we see God, the judge of all people. Here believers are made perfect by Jesus the mediator of the new covenant. His sprinkled blood speaks of cleansing and pardon, unlike the blood of Abel which cry out for vengeance. Those who disobeyed God under the old covenant have perished. Then, how much more the punishment of those who reject Christ? Now God speaks  from heaven through Christ. When God spoke, it shook the earth and heaven(Ex 19:18). God will shake the earth and heaven again (Haggai 2:6). Probably this is going to happen at the return of Christ. All things are temporal and will be destroyed. Only the spiritual and heavenly  things will remain. Believers will inherit a kingdom that cannot be destroyed . So let us be thankful and please God  by worshiping Him with reverence. The writer closes the chapter with a warning."Our God is a consuming fire"(Deut 4:24). Now God is speaking through Christ. Do we hear His voice and obey Him? May God help us.

Faith of Abraham and the Patriarchs. Heb 11:8-40.

Faith is the response to the promises of God. Among the heroes of faith, Abraham has a prominent place. He is known as the "Father of the faithful".Abraham's faith had three stages. First His faith was awakened by God. Secondly Abraham's faith was disciplined.  Thirdly his faith was perfected. Abraham's faith was also associated with those of Sarah, Isaac,Jacob and Joseph. Abraham was an idol worshiper before God appeared to him(Joshua 24:2). By faith Abraham obeyed when God called him(11:8).  He went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he lived in the promised land as a foreigner(11:9). He looked for the city which has the foundation whose builder and maker is God. He hoped for God's kingdom. God's kingdom is
"God's people, living in God's place, under God's rule, enjoying God's blessings". He lived in tents with Isaac and Jacob as a stranger and pilgrim. Abraham's heart was set upon the heavenly city, the  new Jerusalem. Christ said Abraham rejoiced to see My day(John 8:56). So God was not ashamed to be called the God of Abraham(Ex 3:6).

When Abraham and Sarah were united in faith, they receive the promised son Isaac.  How Abraham's faith was tested is explained in chapter 22. God promised Abraham that all  nations will be blessed through his son Isaac. Later God asked Abraham to offer Isaac as a burnt offering. Abraham believed that God is faithful to raise Isaac from the dead. Figuratively, Abraham did receive back his son from the dead(11:19). Abraham loved God more than his son Isaac(Gen 22:12,16-18). His faith was made complete by his obedience(James 2:22). Abraham learned that God loves those who trust Him and  that He is  a God of providence(Gen 22:14). He recognized, God as the righteous judge of all earth(Gen 18:25). Abraham is called the prophet and the friend of God(Gen 20:7;Is 41:8; James 2:23). Without faith, it is impossible to please God. Salvation is by faith, but faith finds it's channel of expression through works. Some one said "Faith alone will save but the faith that saves will not be alone". Abraham's experience teaches that trials are there to prove the reality of our faith in God.

The writer associates the faith of Isaac, Jacob and Joseph with the faith of Abraham. All these faithful men died without receiving what God had promised them. but saw it afar off. Isaac, old and blind , saw the future of  his children. It was by faith that he blessed his two sons, Jacob and Esau. By faith Jacob blessed the two sons of Joseph, believing that God would fulfill His promise to them.  He worshiped God for His faithfulness,
leaning on his staff. By faith Joseph spoke about Israels departure from Egypt and commanded them to carry his bones with them,when they depart. So faith looks from a distance and rejoices in the future blessings.

Moses' faith is mentioned  with the faith of his parents. Great heroes of faith usually come from godly home.
By faith Moses' parents hid the child believing that God's promise would be fulfilled through him (Genesis 15:13,14). By faith Moses rejected the Egyptian way of life and refused to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. By faith Moses saw that the riches of Christ is far grater than the riches of Egypt. By faith he forsook Egypt. By faith Moses kept the Passover, in obedience to the command of God and Israel was delivered from Egyptian captivity.  By faith Israel went right through the red sea to safety.By Faith the wall of Jericho fell. By faith Rahab the harlot was saved from destruction.

Now the writer summarizes the faith of many who deserve recognition. By faith Daniel stopped the mouth of the lion and his three friends were delivered from from the flaming fire. David escaped the javelin of Soul and Elijah was delivered from Jezebel. By faith, women received their dead  by resurrection(1 King 17:17-24;
2 King 4:32-37).Many of them were treated as though, they don't deserve to live in this world. Some were slain with the sword(Jer 26:23). Many were tempted to forsake their faith in God. They preferred to die than to become apostates. Isaiah was sawed in half. Zechariah was stoned(2 Chron 24:20,21).They were  all examples of faith. Though they received not  the promises, they have received God's approval(11:39). For God had planned something better for us so that only together with us, would be made perfect. It does not mean that their blessing is dependent upon our blessing.  It simply means that without us,  the heroes of the Old Testament could not enter into the blessing of the new covenant which Christ has fulfilled. The writer encourages the readers to endure the trials and remain faithful to Christ. May God help us to follow the example of the heroes of Faith!!

Faith Is The Superior Principle of Life, Heb 11:1-7

The writer of Hebrews has concluded chapter that, faith is the dynamic by which the just shall live( Heb: 10:38).Faith is the assurance that what God has promised, He will fulfill. Also faith is the assurance upon which all christian hopes are based. Faith is not a leap into unknown or a crutch for the weakling but the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the conviction of things not seen(11:1). The writer explains what faith does than what it is. This confidence and conviction are based on the divine revelation. True faith is produced by God. It is taking God at His word. The old testament fathers received God's approval because of their faith.

By faith we understand that the worlds have been framed by the word of God. This visible world points to an invisible Creator.There are many views about creation account. Material science cannot explain the origin of the world. The theory of evolution has no satisfactory answer for the origin. The conclusions of all these theories are not final and in a state of flux. All these theories of origins have never been proved and still remain as only theories. But the Bible starts with the statement that "In the beginning God created the heavens and earth". No one witnessed the act of creation, yet by faith we know that the worlds were framed by the word of God.

Now the writer illustrates lives of the Old Testament leader to show, what faith does and how it enabled them to have a right relationship to God. Abel, Enoch and Noah were heroes of faith lived before  the days of Abraham. Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain. Abel is the picture of true worship.God revealed to Abel that there is a right  and there is a wrong way to approach God.He offered  his sacrifice by faith and it was more acceptable than Cain offered. H received  from God the testimony that he was righteous. Christ is the  new and living way to approach God. He is the lamb that was slained. We cannot devise our own way to worship God. We are exhorted to offer the sacrifices of praise to God continually through Jesus Christ(13:15).

By faith Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying.He walked with God in a time of wickedness. At the age of 65 Enoch started walking with God along with his family (Gen 5:21-24).  Walking implies, Faith and fellowship with God. Before he was translated at the age 365, Enoch had received the testimony that he pleased God. It is impossible to please God without faith. He that comes to God must believe in the existence of  sovereign God and live accordingly. God is the rewarder of those who seek Him sincerely. They will finally enter His presence either by the way of death or by rapture.When Christ returns, those who are in Christ will be caught up in the clouds to meet Him in the air and they will be with the Lord for ever
(1 Thess 4:16,17).Do you have that blessed hope?

Verse 7 shows the faith of Noah. By faith he built an ark to save his family from the flood. With no sign of a flood or knowledge of it, Noah built the ark, taking God at His word. It shows his conviction of things not seen. Faith enabled Noah to become a witness for God. He was a preacher of righteousness. By his act of faith he condemned the unbelieving world. Through faith Noah became heir of the righteousness. Faith is our response to God's revelation. Without faith it is impossible to please God. May God help us to follow the example of Abel, Enoch and Noah.