Hebrews 12:12-17

Key Verse: Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord Hebrews 12:14

1.  Verse 12 starts with a "therefore."  Look back to the preceding verses.  What thought was the author connecting to his exhortation to strengthen what remains? 

2.  In verses 12 and 13, the writer returns to the running analogy of Hebrews 12:1-3.  What advice does he give the runner in these verses?  What would being  lame spiritually look like?  What is the danger of continuing to follow Christ with a lame limb?

3. What are the commands the writer gives in verses 14 and 15?  

4. Why does the writer exhort the Hebrews to pursue peace and holiness?  Do you think by the way you live people can see Christ in your life? 

5.  In verse 15 the writer returns to a warning he gave in Hebrews chapter 4, the importance of making sure that none fail to enter God's rest.  This time, who is the warning directed to?  The people who have not yet entered into faith or those who have experienced his grace and are called to lead others in?  Is there someone in your life God has put on your heart to speak to about the danger of not putting their faith in Christ? What is preventing you from speaking to them?  

6.  This passage describes bitterness as a root that can spread to others.  Is there any parts of your life that you are bitter towards God or His people?  How can allowing that attitude to grow affect others?  

7.  To further illustrate his point about the danger of procrastinating repentance, the writer uses Esau as an example.  Read Genesis 25:29-34 and 27:33-36.  What do you learn from Esau?  What things did he put ahead of God's plan for His life? Are you living in a way were you may experience regret at putting off what God has for you right now? 








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