The Joy in Responsibility

(An In-Depth Study of Hebrews)

Commentary

Fear Unbelief and Live Fearless

Hebrews 4:1-11 

Outline 

(Verse 3:19)

We ended last week with the idea that unbelief is the great enemy of the Christian

(Verse 3:12, 13)

God has a design for the Christian life to destroy unbelief – Vigilance and Exhortation

Chapter 4:1-2 The promise of rest is still open…

Therefore, fear unbelief (only thing that can keep you from entering God’s rest)

For, everyone heard the Gospel, but only those with faith received the benefit.

Example : Joshua and Caleb

They heard the Gospel : Exodus 34:6-7

They believed God: Numbers 14:8-9

This example and the author of Hebrews presents; It is not Biblical to think that the Gospel life is a single act of faith with all else being idle and automatic.

God is restful but not idle.

Vs 4 – Creation

Creation is complete, on the seventh day God rested… (Genesis 2:2)

But God is at work in creation (John 5:17)

Basic Science – Matter cannot be created or destroyed,

But it is ever changing and moving.

Rest happens in the heart

Vs 7-8 – Not feet crossing a boundary, but a heart in harmony with God.

Paradox of the Christian Life

Vs 11 – Strive to Rest

Resting in God’s promises because we have faith, we believe; but living out our salvation in fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12)

LIFE APPLICATION:

Receive great joy in the promises and live fearless of death/world by fearing unbelief and longing for God’s design for perseverance.