The Sunday School lesson was titled Covered or Uncovered based on 1 Corinthians 11. By God’s creation man is covered by Christ, woman (and children) are covered by the man. Although this isn’t popular with feminists, it is good when the man is following Christ and loves his wife as Christ loves the church. Ephesians 5:25.
We enjoyed praise and worship then pastor started a new series titled The Bridge. The series is based on a study in Hebrews. Bible scholars aren’t certain who wrote this book. The author says his information is not based on firsthand knowledge of Jesus. The text was most likely a series of sermons given orally rather than letters. Who wrote it isn’t as important as the audience, which would be Jewish believers.
Jesus is the connection (bridge) between God and sinful man. He is the connection in time between the old law and the new testament. He is the connection between the sacrificial system and the new covenant.
Humans tend to drift, as a boat drifts while fishing unless set by an anchor or tied to a dock.
Drift means: To move passively, aimlessly; slow movement from one place to another.
Drifting occurs when we don't live purposely or intentionally.
Hebrews 1:1-4 sets forth important Truth. It is a confirmation of Jesus’ identity as the son of God and the Messiah.
Jesus is the creator of the universe.
Jesus radiates everything about who God the Father is.
Jesus redeemed the sinful world.
Jesus is far greater than the Angels; even as His name is greater (verse 4). This is expanded on in Hebrews 1:5-14.
Hebrews 2:1 begins “So” or “For this reason” or “Therefore”.... ‘Listen carefully to what we have heard, or we may drift away from the truth.’ Hebrews 2:1-4. When we drift from the truth, we drift towards lies, deception.
Point: The revelation of the truth of Jesus renders all weapons of Satan and hell powerless.
The problem is that we too often carelessly, aimlessly, and unintentionally drift away from truth into deception. We give power to be the only weapon Satan has – lies such as:
God doesn't care, doesn't see you. (But God cared even for Hagar and Ishmael).
God made a mistake when you were born, or in your family. (But God has a plan and a purpose just as set out in the story of Joseph, David, Jeremiah and so many others.)
Your past prohibits you from future worth, work. (But God uses even prostitutes and murders like Rahab and Moses.)
You are not valuable, you are unworthy, you are not needed. All of these are lies of the enemy.
When and where are you vulnerable to drifting? Identify your own weakness so you can be aware and protect against drifting.
The lie we believe:
When I feel or experience ________, it's okay to drift.
What is the lie you believe?
I will not drift. I will always steer toward truth.
I will pray for the drifters in my life.
I think this song fits today's message.
Verses for Today: Hebrews 2: 1-4 (NIV)
2 We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2 For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, 3 how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. 4 God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.
I for sure have drifters in my life who I need to pray for more earnestly.
