In this exploration of Hebrews 8, we delve into the profound concept of Jesus as our High Priest and the mediator of a new covenant. The passage reveals how God's love and grace are manifested through this new relationship, surpassing the old covenant's limitations. We learn that God writes His laws on our hearts, transforming us from within rather than imposing external rules. This internal change allows us to naturally align with God's will, growing to respond as Jesus would. The message reminds us that our relationship with God is not based on rituals or intermediaries, but on direct access through Christ. This new covenant offers us a personal experience of God's deliverance and presence, regardless of our status or background. As we reflect on this, we're challenged to evaluate how we perceive God's love for us and to anchor that perception in Jesus' sacrificial love rather than in others' opinions or actions.
How does understanding Jesus as our high priest change our perspective on our relationship with God? In what ways might this impact our daily spiritual lives?
The sermon mentions the danger of getting lost in biblical information rather than knowing Jesus. How can we ensure we're pursuing a relationship with Christ, not just accumulating knowledge?
What does it mean for God to write His laws on our hearts and minds in the new covenant? How have you experienced this in your own spiritual journey?
How does Jesus' role as high priest address our human tendency to let others unduly influence our perception of God's love for us?
The sermon discusses the idea of becoming people who 'naturally do what Jesus would do.' What challenges and opportunities does this present in our lives?
How does the concept of Jesus as a 'better mediator' in the new covenant affect our understanding of prayer and approaching God?
In what ways does the new covenant's promise that 'all will know God' challenge or encourage you in your faith and in sharing it with others?
How might viewing the Old Testament sacrificial system as a 'shadow' pointing to Jesus change our reading and understanding of those scriptures?
The sermon suggests that under the new covenant, we can all experience God's deliverance personally. How have you experienced this in your own life?
How does the idea of Jesus continually interceding for us as our high priest impact your view of ongoing struggles with sin or doubts?
