The House You're Building

[14] Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, [15] and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. [16] For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. [17] Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. [18] For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:14–18 I grew up in the 80’s.  In a decade of teased hair, acid washed jeans, and synth heavy music.  One of the best parts of pop culture in this decade was the movies.  Classics like Goonies, ET, and Top Gun all made their appearance, but one of my favorites was the Indiana Jones series. ...

[12] Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. [13] Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. [15] Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. [16] Only let us hold true to what we have attained. Philippians 3:12–16  (ESV) Human reality is in constant flux.  No state in our present experience is ever permanent.  In the good times, this is a negative characteristic.  Contrastingly, in hard times it is often a benefit to realize that your current circumstances aren’t always going to stay the same.  This has led to a saying “this too shall pass.”   This truism does not come from Scripture, though the...

Sisters and Seekers, Glad you are back in our 5th study of Titus.  Today we get into the "theology" behind what we studied last week, how our lives should look as we live out our faith.  By completing this study, you'll learn more about how how great our salvation is.  As previously mentioned, if you are just starting out, go back and find the blog post titled:  Titus: Overview . How did the Spirit speak to you through studying the different seasons of life last time?  Did He reveal an area where you can grow?  As we study, don't forget what He is revealing.  In fact, stop right now and say a little prayer that He would open your eyes to what He wants you to see as you approach His word and that He would bring it to mind in your time of need.  Hopefully you are praying each time you study; I know for me I find it very helpful as I battle distraction, motivation, and a hardened heart at time when I come to sit at His feet. When you get to t...

Key Verse: Hebrews 10:14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.     The sacrificial system is referenced multiple times in the first 18 verses of chapter 10.  Read through the chapter carefully and make notes about what you learn about it.  We know that these sacrifices are referencing the blood of bulls and goats as commanded by the law (see verses 4 and 10). What would the modern day equivalent of sacrificing to God be?  Do people still try to earn God's favor and blessing in any way? If someone knew what this passage teaches about the effectiveness of sacrifices taking away sin are they wasting their time?  Verse 10:2 says that the sacrificial system would have stopped but people still feel guilt over sin and felt compelled to keep offering.  As a Christian do you struggle with guilt over things that Jesus has already forgiven?  Which verse in this passage can give you confidence that ...

Key Verse:     So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him                                                                                                                        Hebrews 9:28   Study Questions: ·          Whenever you see a therefore or other term of conclusion in scripture, stop to summarize what the main idea is preceding the verse.  Look at Hebrews 9:15, 18, 23 and identify the argument made before each of these verses.  ·          H...