Main Thought
Through His sacrifice, Jesus opened a new and living way into God's presence, making it possible for us to draw near with confidence. God doesn't simply invite us into His presence so that we can receive from Him; He invites us near so that He can transform us. As we draw near to Christ, He strengthens our faith and shapes our character.
God's work, however, was never meant to stop with us. As we abide in Christ, He produces spiritual fruit in us and works through us to bless others. We are called to stand firm in the hope He has given us, encourage one another toward love and good works, and help others experience the hope we have found in Christ. Behind the curtain, God changes us. Beyond the curtain, God moves through us.
Main Passages
"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith... Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together... but encouraging one another..."
- Hebrews 10:19-25 ESV
"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
- John 15:4-5 ESV
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
- John 13:34-35 ESV
Discussion Questions
1. What stands out to you most in the Main Thought or the Main Passages above?
2. Jesus calls us to abide in Him because He is the source of our spiritual life and fruitfulness. What practices or habits help you stay connected to Christ? Are there any distractions or obstacles that make it harder to abide in Him?
3. Hebrews encourages us to stir one another up to love and good works, while Jesus says our love for one another points people to Him. Who might God be calling you to encourage, serve, or invest in this week? What is one practical way you can help someone experience the hope you have found in Christ?