This week, the author of Hebrews pauses in his sermon to issue a strong and sobering warning to his readers. If they do not continue in faith and grow to maturity but instead fall away, they will be forever lost. He explains that this process doesn't happen overnight, but begins with simple dullness and can ultimately end in deconversion.
How are we to receive such a rebuke? Like it's coming from a friend. Proverbs 27:6 says, "Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy." As someone who genuinely loves his listeners, the author is not trying to harm them, but help them. Although he uses such stern language, he also expresses great confidence in them and explains how we can keep growing to maturity.
Jesus: Our Maturity
March 6, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • Hebrews 5:11—6:12
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Hebrews
Intro: A Jesus-Centered Life
January 23, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • Hebrews 1:1–4
The book of Hebrews is one of the most profound and mysterious books of the entire Bible. While many of the details surrounding the book are unclear, its main purpose is very clear - Jesus is supreme over everything and life is meant to revolve around Him. Even though the book is highly theological, its impact is meant to be highly practical. The truth and meaning of Jesus aren't simply doctrine to be believed, but power to live by. This teaching begins the book of Hebrews by exploring what a Jesus-Centered life looks like.
Jesus: Our Salvation
January 30, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • Hebrews 1:5—2:9
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Jesus: Our Brother
February 6, 2022 • Stephen Putbrese • Hebrews 2:10–18
So far, Hebrews has focused mostly on the deity of Jesus. This week, the author shifts to emphasize the humanity of Jesus. Jesus was and is fully God and fully man. This isn't just a doctrinal statement - it has profound implications for our lives. If Jesus lived a fully and truly human life, he knows how to relate to us. Further, he wasn't simply a man, but relates to those who trust him as a brother.