Preparatory Reading: Number 13; Numbers 14; Deuteronomy 1; Psalm 95; Hebrews 3; Hebrews 4.
Introduction:
- The purpose of Hebrews is to show the superiority of Jesus Christ and Christianity to converted Jews, who were tempted by Old Testament religion and persecution to return to Moses and Jerusalem.
- The context of Hebrews is the time of reformation, when the two covenants ran side by side before God destroyed the Jewish nation and gave the kingdom and sent the gospel entirely to the Gentiles.
- Studying Hebrews 7 last week, we saw Paul progress from Gen 14 to David’s prophecy in Ps 110:4.
- Hebrews chapters 3-4 require us to progress from Numbers 13-14 to David’s prophecy in Ps 95:7-11.
- Prior to Hebrews 3, our beloved brother Paul has proved the deity and glorified humanity of Jesus.
- There are two sections to Hebrews chapter 3, with the single division being between verses 6 and 7.
- Verses 3:1-6 show the superiority of Jesus Christ over Moses, the great legislator of Israel.
- Verses 3:7-19 use the provocation in the wilderness to exhort the Jews to faithful perseverance.
- Rather than despise the generation in the wilderness, let us examine our own steadfastness and joy!
- What is tempting you to give up or relax in your pursuit of Jesus Christ and full gospel living?