A series of final exhortations – or words – mark the conclusion of the letter that began with attention to the Final Word that is Jesus.
Hebrews 13:1-22
SERMON OUTLINE
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
Worship that Responds to God (Hebrews 12:28-29)
- gratitude
- awe
Worship and Right Love (Hebrews 13:1-6)
- love of others
- love in marriage
- love of money
Worship and Right Doctrine (Hebrews 13:7-9)
- the foundational leaders and doctrine
- not deviating into strange doctrine
Worship Centered in the Crucified Christ (Hebrews 13:10-16)
- the altar
- the High Priest
- the sacrifice outside the city
- our sacrifice of praise
Worship and the Community Leadership (Hebrews 13:17-19)
- leaders who serve and keep watch in light of the end
- have confidence and bring them joy
Worship and Prayer (Hebrews 13:20-21)
- the reality of God
- the people equipped by God and overflowing with good
Final Words (Hebrews 13:22-25)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- If you could only leave one last word with the people you love what would it be and why?
- This week we conclude our series “The Final Word: Knowing Christ through Hebrews” by looking at Hebrews 13:1-25. Begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through His Word. Then, whether you’re alone or with a group, read that passage aloud.
- The final words of Hebrews 12, verses 28-29, set the tone of what is to come in Hebrews 13. Read Hebrews 12:28-29 and summarize the theme of those verses.
- Hebrews 13:1-6 offers guidance on discipleship in relationship to our love of others (13:1-3), marriage (13:4), and money (13:5-6). What is the guidance and reason for that guidance in each of these three areas?
- Which of these three words are most challenging for you to hear and live out right now? How might you bring that area to God? How could you share your growth area with someone or your small group for prayer and support?
- Hebrews 13:7-19 form a second section of this chapter. What do verses 7-9 speak about?
- Verses 10-16 form a doctrinal center about true worship rooted in Jesus Christ in contrast with the earlier covenants and sacrifices, drawing upon imagery from the Old Testament, Jesus’ crucifixion, and earlier portions of Hebrews. What is highlighted about Jesus and His sacrifice in these verses?
- What do you think it means for us to “go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore” (13:13)? Why would this be significant to the readers of this letter who are suffering persecution for their faith?
- Verses 17-19 remind us of the need for godly leadership in the local church. Take some time to read these verses and then pray for the pastoral leadership of the church.
- Hebrews 13:20-25 offer a concluding blessing and final remarks to the recipients. What stands out to you from these final verses about the writer, the recipients, the broader church, Jesus Christ, and the Triune God?
- What is one thing God is speaking to you through this study of Hebrews 13:1-25? If you are on your own, write that down. If you are in a small group, discuss your answers with one another. Close in prayer. Choose one person in your life with whom you will share something you learned through this study.
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize Hebrews 13:8 or 13:20-21 this week.
- Look back at the entire book of Hebrews chapter by chapter, writing down one verse or idea that has captured your attention from this book. You may even want to outline the entire book to remind yourself of the big picture of God’s message about Christ in Hebrews.
- Write a psalm of praise and thanksgiving to God for who He is and what He has done, utilizing verses or phrases from Hebrews throughout it. Share what you wrote with another believer as a source of encouragement.
- To remember the big picture of Hebrews watch the Bible Project video on Hebrews again.