This Hope We Have In God

Hebrews 6:10-11

Hebrews 6:10–11 (ESV)

10 For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. 11 And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end,

Living a “Christian Life” was quite challenging for many Jews….

1) It was easy to fall into discouragement (see 2 Tim 1:3-10).

2 Timothy 1:3–10 (ESV)

3 I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. 4 As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,

2) How could a Jew find “strong encouragement” to live for God after everything that identified his life with God was removed…?

3) …By focusing on the one thing that has been the greatest enduring encouragement for God’s people: Promise!

Hebrews 6:11-12

Hebrews 6:11-12

Hebrews 6:11–12 (ESV)

11 And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

The Example of Abraham (Heb 6:13-15).

1) Rom 4:1-12 (His righteous life, without written law or circumcision).

2) Rom 4:13-25 (His endurance).

God Shows Himself To Be Serious About Our Hope (Heb 6:16-18)

1) He chose the highest form of an oath

2) The nature and character of God is holy, so when he announces a plan, its certain, he cannot lie. Adding an oath deepens the roots of one’s confidence!

How Serious Are We About This Hope We Have? (Heb 6:18-20)

1) There is no excusable reason to doubt it.

2) Our sluggishness may eternally condemn us!

3) Have you drawn up your anchor? Are you drifting through life?