RPG Adults
THE TRUE APPLICATION OF DOCTRINES
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Hebrews 13:7-17
2 Peter 3:8-13
“… what manner of persons ought ye to be
in all holy conversation and godliness.”
THE TRUE APPLICATION OF DOCTRINES
The writer knew of the presence of false doctrines and thus he gave a warning in Hebrews 13:9. Such false doctrines have to be countered by direct opposition and also by teaching the true doctrines clearly.
In the Old Testament order of worship, there was an altar and the priests who served. They had to kill the animals whose blood the high priests brought to the sanctuary but the bodies were burned outside the camp. The writer mentioned all these because he was addressing Hebrews who were familiar with that order. Since Christ has come (as explained earlier in this epistle), these ceremonial observations were no longer valid. This knowledge helps believers to appreciate the value of the work of Christ’s atonement when He shed His blood on the cross.
Jesus is all sufficient and is able to sanctify the people with His own blood. This is a truth He asserted severally in the gospels and preached by the Apostles. His suffering and crucifixion fulfils the prophecies of the Old Testament and brought to pass the purpose in which it was designed. He was crucified outside the gates of Jerusalem to bear our reproach. The atoning work of Christ is the main message of the gospel which the Jews were not willing to accept, at least in their official capacity. The writer stressed the differences that had been wrought with Christ’s first advent. He added that we do not have a continuing city, but we seek that which is to come, i.e. where Christ is. This is heaven. The writer said this to dispel the opinion of a sacred city on the present earth. In the old order, Jerusalem had that status since God had chosen it. It was held in high regard and carried much interest in the hearts of Christians as well. However, the present earth as a whole will be destroyed by fire. Peter said that the elements will melt with fervent heat and all is going to be burned up (2 Pet 3:10). Look then to Jesus!
THOUGHT: Jesus is my all sufficiency and the Creator.
PRAYER: Father, may I always render a service that pleases Thee.