Sermon Outline Archive 2006:

Sermon Outline April 20, 2008 Evening Service

Topic: Embrace Today

I. The theme of the book of Hebrews is the superiority of Christ.

A. The words “better,” “perfect,” and “heavenly” appear frequently.

B. This letter was written to former Jewish believers who were undergoing persecution for their belief in Jesus.

C. The letter is one of exhortation and encouragement.

II. In Chapter 3 we find the writer detailing the superiority of Jesus to Moses and providing a warning applicable to all believers (Hebrews 3:1-6).

A. This passage is a quote of Psalm 95:7-11.

B. Israel’s sin is described as rebellion, sin, disobedience, and unbelief.

C. Let’s go back and refresh our memories of this time.

I. The Error Of Israel.

A. The report of the spies (Numbers 13:25-33).

1. The spies reported that the land was “certainly flowing with milk and honey.”

2. Caleb tried to remind them of whom they follow but his words are lost in the report of the other spies.

B. The reaction of the people (Numbers 14:1-4).

1. Lack of trust.

2. Turning back to Egypt.

C. The judgment of God (Numbers 14:5-10).

1. Moses intercedes with God, sparing the people His wrath.

2. Due to their rebellion they were condemned to wander.

D. The writer of Hebrews applies Israel’s experience to his readers.

II. The Example For Us.

A. Learn from them (Hebrews 3:12-15).

1. He gives a proper caution; Take heed, look to it.

2. Essentially the writer says, “Be on your guard against what kept your ancestors out of Canaan—don’t do the same things!”

3. The writer makes the point that Christ is the head of the church.

4. Israel’s fall should forever be a warning (1 Corinthians 10:11).

B. We must enlarge our trust.

1. The scriptures are full of examples.

2. We cannot put our trust in man.

3. We cannot put our trust in the things of this world.

4. We must trust in the Lord if we are to receive His rest.

C. Entomb Our past.

1. We cannot return to our former lives (Luke 9:62; 2 Peter 2:20-22).

2. Having put on our “new selves” in Christ there is no going back.

D. Embrace Today.

1. This is the day to open your heart to God and His word.

2. We have no guarantee for tomorrow.

I. Our God has a great future for us (Hebrews 4:1-2).

II. We receive our future based upon how we respond to Him today: hear Him, trust Him, obey Him.