04/21/24

Jesus is Better

Richard White, Pastor

"A Better Helper" - Hebrews 13:1-6

1. How does the command to “let brotherly/sisterly love continue” apply to our church lives?  What are its ramifications for difficulties with others in the body? What are some practical ways we can show brotherly love to one another in our church?
2. In verse 2, the writer exhorts us to show hospitality to strangers. Why is hospitality emphasized in the Bible, and how can we practice it effectively in our context?
3. Vs 3 calls us to remember those in prison and mistreated as if suffering alongside of them. What does this look like for us in our context?
4. The sanctity of marriage and the importance of proper sexual expression are the focus of vs 4. How does what is said here challenge our cultural norms regarding relationships, marriage, and sex? Why is God so concerned with sex and marriage, do you think? (consider reading Eph 5:22-33 but start with verse 32.)
5. What does it mean to be content with what we have (vs 5)? How might we cultivate contentment in a culture overwhelmed by consumerism and materialism?
6. The promise of vs 5 is so overwhelming.  Respond to it, what does it mean for you that God will never, never, never, never, never leave you alone or forsake you?  How is the cross the guarantee of its truth?  What impact might there be in your life if you lived out of this truth constantly throughout the day? 
7. How is God’s presence with you the source of contentment and power for doing all that we are exhorted to in vs 1-5?  Can you share a personal experience where you felt God’s presence in a challenging situation?
8. If “the Lord is my helper,” how does that help me not fear man?  How does a mindset of trust and confidence in God help you navigate the uncertainties and challenges of your life?