The New Has Come (WS)

Westside Campus

July 10, 2022 • Ron Oliver • Hebrews 8

A covenant, not a term frequenting conversation today, is a legally binding agreement between individuals. Despite its infrequent use, understanding the definition, what covenants are and are not is vital to grasping the over-arching story of the Bible. Unlike covenants made between humans, when God enters into a covenantal relationship with humans, it is one-sided. Only God can initiate and establish a covenant with Himself. All throughout the Old Testament, we find God choosing people—Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, etc.—for covenantal relationship, each established with the promise of blessing for the faithful, and curses for those who failed. Time and time again we see humans fail to keep their side of the covenant, experiencing hardships and consequences for their choices. Yet God is merciful and to the reader, it is clear that the covenants offered by God throughout history still far outweigh the alternative, an existence apart from God. And yet God had more for us. This week’s passage in Hebrews illustrates a better covenant between God and humanity, one that is mediated and fulfilled perfectly by Jesus on our behalf.

Words To Live By (BG)

September 4, 2022 • Jon Siebert • Hebrews 13:7–25

As we conclude our study in the book of Hebrews, there are two things we hope have been true about our experience. First, that we would understand that the Old Testament is filled with markers pointing us to the salvation that is found in Christ Jesus. That we have learned not to be intimidated by the Old Testament but to see that it offers a richer view of angels, Moses, the temple and tabernacle, the sacrificial system, the Levitical priesthood, and what they are all in service to. Second, that our hope and confidence in our salvation would be strengthened despite the various trials and hardships we may face, just like the original recipients of Hebrews. That we would be a people who persevere, pressing on into holiness, and not being enticed to stray. As we study these last few practical exhortations in how to relate to one another and to leaders in the church, may we receive the prayer the author left with his original recipients: “May the God of peace equip you to do his will.”

Words To Live By (WS)

September 4, 2022 • Kenan Stolz • Hebrews 13:7–25

Transformed Priorities (BG)

August 28, 2022 • Jon Siebert • Hebrews 13:1–6

When it comes to understanding what God wants for our lives, the problem usually isn't that God wasn't clear enough. The problem often lies in our willingness to listen and obey. Thus far in the book of Hebrews, our minds have been stretched to better understand God’s will, make more biblical connections, and establish a proper view of who Jesus is and what He has done for us. As the book nears its conclusion, we find that the author lists some extremely practical exhortations for our daily lives and community. The premise is this: if all that has been discussed before is true, it demands certain changes in our lives. The most powerful love we can ever experience is the love of God which is freely given to us by Jesus and has eternal implications. Therefore, this love should impact the way we love those who God has placed around us. The question is, are we functioning as a conduit of His great love, or simply serving ourselves in a closed circuit?