Ancient Heroes

Backstory:
The author of Hebrews spent the majority of the book trying to help the Jews understand the differences between Judaism and Christianity as well as clarifying the implications of putting one’s faith in Jesus Christ. The author of Hebrews selected some of the heroes of the Old Testament to illustrate how faith motivated them and led them forward as God’s people.

God’s Story:
Faith is the basis of all that it means to be my child. It is what makes my people strong and enables them to endure their transitory time on earth until they are able to settle into their eternal home. Throughout history, some of my children have shown exceptional faith in me and my plan. My plan, of course, has always been to have a wonderfully close relationship with my children. Sin, however, broke us apart, and I have been trying to get them back ever since. This select group of children worked with me in this task. They believed in what they could not see. They trusted and obeyed, and they are examples for all who hope and have faith in me.

Read Hebrews 11:1-40

Your Story:
Hebrews 11 contains quite a list of Old Testament people who demonstrated extraordinary faith in God throughout their lifetime. Although circumstances are much different today than they were in ancient Israel, how would you measure up to those on this list? If your family or your church were to gather a similar list of contemporary names, what would you be commended for?

As Human As You Are

Backstory:
The letter to the Hebrews, written by an unknown author, specifically addresses Jews who had become Jesus’ followers but were being tempted — at least in part because of persecution — to go back to Judaism. The letter was written to convince them that Jesus is God’s full and complete revelation to his people.

God’s Story:
I sent my Son to earth on a rescue mission — to save my children from sin so they could be close to me again. He did not die to gain recognition or political power, nor did he die to save himself. The suffering he experienced as a sinless human, tasting death for every human being, made him the perfect sacrifice. He knows the pain of his brothers and sisters, but because of him they will overcome it.

Read Hebrews 2:1-18

Your Story:
Have you ever had a hangnail that caused your whole hand to throb with pain? Ever been walking barefoot, only to be brought to the ground whimpering after stubbing your toe? Well, guess what? Jesus probably experienced those same things during his time on earth. And you can be sure he experienced unimaginable suffering before his death — pain much worse than you will ever experience. It’s because of his humanity that you can trust Jesus. He knows exactly what it’s like to be you because he’s been through it.