So what makes us think we can escape if we ignore this great salvation that was first announced by the Lord Jesus himself and then delivered to us by those who heard him speak? (Hebrews 2:3, NLT)
If you were asked to name your favorite book of the Bible, I doubt anyone would say, “Well, of course, it has to be the book of Hebrews.”
I admit that through the years, I’ve spent more time in Romans, Ephesians, James, 1 Peter, Psalms, and Isaiah (you get the picture) rather than the book of Hebrews.
This year, I decided to repent!
I read the book of Hebrews repeatedly throughout May, June, July, August, and September. Yes, I’ve read the book of Hebrews many times as a follower of Jesus and studied the book in Bible college.
But I read the book of Hebrews this summer asking three questions after each chapter:
- What does this teach me?
- How does this encourage me?
- What should I change in my life from reading this chapter?
I began asking these questions after reading the book several times and noticing that the author of Hebrews taught sublime lessons about the superiority of Christ, gave fascinating insights that gave me encouragement to walk faithfully, and challenged my current actions and attitudes.
My favorite verse in Hebrews is . . .
Dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus (10:19, NLT).
I liken the book of Hebrews to a treasure hunt. Throughout this epistle, I learned something new, was encouraged and gained notes of practical advice that helped my walk with Jesus.
In the above (my favorite verse) – I learned that Jesus sits in the most holy place in the universe. I was encouraged that He earned this position, not in an election, but by His blood. My prayers were energized to be bold because I can enter (have permission to enter) the Holy Place at any time.
Sort of like having an open invitation to the White House, a seat behind LeBron James at a pro basketball game, or access to Pastor Grant’s new office!
The book of Hebrews teaches on the supremacy of Jesus, angels, a man named Melchizedek, the new covenant, heroes of the faith, and many other topics – all riches to be found in your treasure hunt as you read through this book.
Some of my other favorite passages . . .
How will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? (NASB1995)
Are angels not ministering spirits sent to help me when I need it most? (OGV)
Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it (ESV).
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (KJV).
Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it (NIV).
Please note that I haven’t listed chapter and verse for my “treasure passages.”
I want you to find your own treasures by asking:
- What does this teach me?
- How does this encourage me?
- What should I change in my life from reading this chapter?
When you read, meditate, and act in faith by reading the Word of God found in Hebrews, you will discover this important key to victory . .
Grace be with you all (AMP).