Sermon Notes:
1. The One who spoke long ago is speaking to us, today. Will we listen? (Hebrews 1:1-2a)
2. The One who speaks to us must not be ignored. But there’s always an excuse. (Hebrews 1:2b-14)
3. Whoever ignores Him will not escape. (Hebrews 2:1-4)
Questions
1. What are some reasons you tend to ignore things that are said to you? Was there a time you ignored something you were told but later wished you hadn’t?
2. The author of Hebrews begins his letter by telling them that God’s message in the current age came through his Son, not by prophets or angels, like in the Old Testament. Read Luke 4:43, John 14:23-24, Matthew 7:24-27, John 6:67-69. Jesus’ words are for you, today. What can you discern from these verses about the need to pay careful attention to what Jesus is saying to you?
3. The influence that the world has on us, as Christians, is a recurring theme in Scripture. Read Romans 12:2; 1 John 2:15-17; James 1:27. What are some practical strategies to stay free of influences in our time that can rob you of the peace, joy, and power that God wants for you? What are some ways you can trust God with the journey you’re on right now?
4. In Matthew 24, Jesus is asked by his disciples how we can know when we’re getting close to the end, and one of the signs is that many people will fall away from the faith. Read Matthew 24:10-14. As we encounter a world that increasingly sounds like the one Jesus is describing, how should we live in light of the world’s values to remain strong to the end? What kind of influence does the world have in your life? How do you protect your heart and pursue holiness in a world where “the love of most will grow cold” (v. 12)?
5. Later in his letter, the author of Hebrews gives his readers a strategy to keep from falling away. Read Hebrews 3:12-13. What are some practical ways you can rely on other people to keep you on track when you’re struggling? How can you be an encouragement to others around you when they struggle?