Building Our Future

Hebrews 3:1-6

Connecting Questions

· What is something built that has impressed you?

· What is something you have “built” that has been important to you?

Prayer for Illumination

Let us pray, Loving God, we pause today grateful for this next breath. We are grateful for the chance to connect with others today for we all carry such hurts and hope. Open your Word to us. Open our hearts to let your word speak to us and change our lives. We pray in the name of the Jesus, Amen.

Context

This Sunday, we continue our worship series, Building Our Future. As Easter people, we are living into the next chapter as a church community by rediscovering the stories of God at work in and among us. Each week, we will explore a “building” theme. But, before we can build with sticks and bricks, “the Lord must build the house”--that’s you, me and the neighbors we are called to serve.

Don’t miss Pastor Erik’s sermon in the Building Our Future series. Sermons can be found at Easter.org/worship.

From Pastor Craig Koester at EntertheBible.org:

Hebrews speaks to people who find that daily life seems to be far removed from the kingdom of God. The author recognizes that the gospel’s message may be glorious, yet life in the Christian community and the wider society is often discouraging. Through vivid images of Israel in the wilderness, the sanctuary and its worship, and a panoramic view of the whole history of Israel, the author shows how the message of hope can continue to motivate people to lives of faith and service.

Look at the Book

Open Hebrews 3:1-6. These verses are about comparing Jesus and Moses. What do you know about Moses? Or read this: https://enterthebible.org/glossary/moses
The author is making the claim that Jesus is superior to every other spiritual authority people may claim. Read Hebrews 1:14. Who else is Jesus more powerful than?
We often see, “sisters and brothers,” but look at the new title for the readers (or hearers!) of the letter: “holy partners in a heavenly calling.” What do you think that means?
What two titles are ascribed to Jesus in verse one? What is a confession? Where do we make “confession” in worship weekly?
Apostle means “sent one.” This is the only time in the New Testament where Jesus is given this title. Why should we know that Jesus is sent?
Verse 2 introduces the key theme. Underline the first few words. What was Jesus’ action? Who appointed him?
With all the talk of Moses, we also need to define a key word, “anti-Semitism.” What is that? And how can Christians not contribute?
What is the argument being made in verse 3?
Verse 4 could also be called an “aside.” It contains a powerful promise. What is it?
How is God the builder of all things? Google Luther’s explanation of the First Article of the Apostle’s Creed. What do you notice?
What is Moses commended for in verse 5? What image is ascribed to Moses in comparison to Jesus?
What role is Jesus ascribed in verse 6? What are we called to do?
What do you want to talk about that has not been brought up yet?

Taking it Home

How is this passage encouraging to you? In reality, we lose confidence and things in life “break.” Why does it matter then that God is the builder?

What can you ask God to rebuild in your life this week?

Grow Guide | Aug 27, 2023