Hebrews 3:1
Verse
Context
Sermons
Leonard RavenhillLeonard Ravenhill
Charles PriceLeonard RavenhillLeonard Ravenhill
Art KatzLeonard RavenhillSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Holy brethren - Persons consecrated to God, as the word literally implies, and called, in consequence, to be holy in heart, holy in life, and useful in the world. The Israelites are often called a holy people, saints, etc., because consecrated to God, and because they were bound by their profession to be holy; and yet these appellations are given to them in numberless instances where they were very unholy. The not attending to this circumstance, and the not discerning between actual positive holiness, and the call to it, as the consecration of the persons, has led many commentators and preachers into destructive mistakes. Antinomianism has had its origin here: and as it was found that many persons were called saints, who, in many respects, were miserable sinners, hence it has been inferred that they were called saints in reference to a holiness which they had in another; and hence the Antinomian imputation of Christ's righteousness to unholy believers, whose hearts were abominable before God, and whose lives were a scandal to the Gospel. Let, therefore, a due distinction be made between persons by their profession holy, i.e. consecrated to God; and persons who are faithful to that profession, and are both inwardly and outwardly holy. They are not all Israel who are of Israel: a man, by a literal circumcision, may be a Jew outwardly; but the circumcision of the heart by the Spirit makes a man a Jew inwardly. A man may be a Christian in profession, and not such in heart; and those who pretend that, although they are unholy in themselves, they are reputed holy in Christ, because his righteousness is imputed to them, most awfully deceive their own souls. Dr. Owen has spoken well on the necessity of personal holiness against the Antinomians of his day. "If a man be not made holy he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. It is this that makes them meet for the inheritance of the saints in light; as without it they are not meet for their duty, so are they not capable of their reward. Yea, heaven itself, in the true light and notion of it, is undesirable to an unsanctified person. Such a one neither can nor would enjoy God if he might. In a word, there is no one thing required of the sons of God that an unsanctified person can do, and no one thing promised unto them that he can enjoy. "There is surely then a woful mistake in the world. If Christ sanctify all whom he saves, many will appear to have been mistaken in their expectations at another day. It is grown amongst us almost an abhorrency to all flesh to say, the Church of God is to be holy. What! though God has promised that it should be so; that Christ has undertaken to make it so? What! if it be required to be so? What! if all the duties of it be rejected of God, if it be not so? It is all one, if men be baptized, whether they will or not, and outwardly profess the name of Christ, though not one of them be truly sanctified, yet they are, it is said, the Church of Christ. Why then let them be so; but what are they the better for it? Are their persons or their services therefore accepted with God? Are they related or united to Christ? Are they under his conduct unto glory? Are they meet for the inheritance of the saints in light? Not at all: not all nor any of these things do they obtain thereby. What is it then that they get by the furious contest which they make for the reputation of this privilege? Only this: that, satisfying their minds by it, resting if not priding themselves in it, they obtain many advantages to stifle all convictions of their condition, and so perish unavoidably. A sad success, and for ever to be bewailed! Yet is there nothing at all at this day more contended for in this world than that Christ might be thought to be a captain of salvation to them, unto whom he is not a sanctifier; that he may have an unholy Church, a dead body. These things tend neither to the glory of Christ, nor to the good of the souls of men. Let none then deceive themselves; sanctification is a qualification indispensably necessary to them who will be under the conduct of the Lord Christ unto salvation; he leads none to heaven but whom he sanctifies on earth. The holy God will not receive unholy persons. This living head will not admit of dead members, nor bring men into possession of a glory which they neither love nor like." Heavenly calling - The Israelites had an earthly calling; they were called out of Egypt to go into the promised land: Christians have a heavenly calling; they are invited to leave the bondage of sin, and go to the kingdom of God. These were made partakers of this calling; they had already embraced the Gospel, and were brought into a state of salvation. Apostle and High Priest of our profession - Among the Jews the high priest was considered to be also the apostle of God; and it is in conformity to this notion that the apostle speaks. And he exhorts the Hebrews to consider Jesus Christ to be both their High Priest and Apostle; and to expect these offices to be henceforth fulfilled by him, and by him alone. This was the fullest intimation that the Mosaic economy was at an end, and the priesthood changed. By της ὁμολογιας ἡμων, our profession, or that confession of ours, the apostle undoubtedly means the Christian religion. Jesus was the Apostle of the Father, and has given to mankind the new covenant; and we are to consider the whole system of Christianity as coming immediately from him. Every system of religion must have a priest and a prophet; the one to declare the will of God, the other to minister in holy things. Moses was the apostle under the old testament, and Aaron the priest. When Moses was removed, the prophets succeeded him; and the sons of Aaron were the priests after the death of their father. This system is now annulled; and Jesus is the Prophet who declares the Father's will, and he is the Priest who ministers in the things pertaining to God, see Heb 2:17; as he makes atonement for the sins of the people, and is the Mediator between God and man.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, holy brethren,.... The apostle calls the Hebrews "brethren", not because they were of the same natural stock and lineage, but because they were in the same spiritual relation; they all had the same Father, belonged to the same family, were the adopted sons of God, the brethren of Christ, of one another, and of the apostle; and they were "holy", not by birth, nor by their external separation from other nations, but through sanctification of the Spirit; and they were so by profession, and in the opinion of the apostle: partakers of the heavenly calling; by which is meant not any business, or employment of life; nor a call to any office in church or state; nor a mere external call by the ministry of the word; but an internal special call of grace, to the enjoyment of the blessings of grace here, and to glory hereafter; and which is not according, to works, but according to the grace of God, and is by powerful, efficacious, and irresistible grace: and this is said to be "heavenly", because the grace by which the saints are called is from heaven, and it is to heaven they are called; and the means of their calling, the Gospel, is from heaven; and this epistle epithet is used to show the excellency of their calling, and to distinguish it from all others: and this the Hebrews are said to be "partakers of"; which shows, that God had not utterly cast off that people, and yet that they were not the only persons that enjoyed the grace of the effectual calling, they were but partners with others; and that the saints are alike sharers in this blessing, they are called in one hope of their calling; and it denotes the truth and reality of it: the duty they are exhorted to is, to consider the apostle and high priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions, read, only "Jesus"; who is called "the apostle", because he was sent of God to preach the Gospel, work miracles, and do the will of God, particularly to obtain redemption and salvation for his people, which mission does not suppose any inequality of persons, or change of place, or any compulsion or disrespect to Christ, but love to men; and is to be understood of him as in office as Mediator, and shows his authority, and that he was no impostor. The high priest among the Jews was, on the day of atonement, considered as "an apostle", or "messenger" (s); for so the elders of the sanhedrim address him on that day, saying, "Lord high priest, we are the messengers of the sanhedrim, and thou art "our apostle", or "messenger", and the messenger of the sanhedrim.'' And it follows here, and "the high priest of our profession"; which may be understood either objectively, whom they professed, both by words or deeds; for a profession of him should be public, visible, and sincere; or efficiently, he being the author, sum, and substance of the religion, faith, and Gospel which was professed by them: and he is to be "considered" in the greatness and dignity of his person, as the Son of God; and in his wondrous grace and love in assuming human nature, and dying for his people; and in the relations he stands in to them as a Father, husband, brother, friend; and in his several offices, as Mediator, and particularly as sent of God, to be the Saviour of sinners; and as the high priest, who has offered himself a sacrifice, and ever lives to make intercession; and all this to encourage the saints to hold fast their profession of him. (s) Misn. Yoma, c. 1. sect. 5.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses we have the application of the doctrine laid down in the close of the last chapter concerning the priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ. And observe, I. In how fervent and affectionate a manner the apostle exhorts Christians to have this high priest much in their thoughts, and to make him the object of their close and serious consideration; and surely no one in earth or heaven deserves our consideration more than he. That this exhortation might be made the more effectual, observe, 1. The honourable compellation used towards those to whom he wrote: Holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling. (1.) Brethren, not only my brethren, but the brethren of Christ, and in him brethren to all the saints. All the people of God are brethren, and should love and live like brethren. (2.) Holy brethren; holy not only in profession and title, but in principle and practice, in heart and life. This has been turned by some into scorn: "These," say they, "are the holy brethren;" but it is dangerous jesting with such edge-tools; be not mockers, lest your bands be made strong. Let those that are thus despised and scorned labour to be holy brethren indeed, and approve themselves so to God; and they need not be ashamed of the title nor dread the scoffs of the profane. The day is coming when those that make this a term of reproach would count it their greatest honour and happiness to be taken into this sacred brotherhood. (3.) Partakers of the heavenly calling - partakers of the means of grace, and of the Spirit of grace, that came from heaven, and by which Christians are effectually called out of darkness into marvelous light, that calling which brings down heaven into the souls of men, raises them up to a heavenly temper and conversation, and prepares them to live for ever with God in heaven. 2. The titles he gives to Christ, whom he would have them consider, (1.) As the apostle of our profession, the prime-minister of the gospel church, a messenger and a principal messenger sent of God to men, upon the most important errand, the great revealer of that faith which we profess to hold and of that hope which we profess to have. (2.) Not only the apostle, but the high priest too, of our profession, the chief officer of the Old Testament as well as the New, the head of the church in every state, and under each dispensation, upon whose satisfaction and intercession we profess to depend for pardon of sin, and acceptance with God. (3.) As Christ, the Messiah, anointed and every way qualified for the office both of apostle and high priest. (4.) As Jesus, our Saviour, our healer, the great physician of souls, typified by the brazen serpent that Moses lifted up in the wilderness, that those who were stung by the fiery serpents might look to him, and be saved. II. We have the duty we owe to him who bears all these high and honourable titles, and that is to consider him as thus characterized. Consider what he is in himself, what he is to us, and what he will be to us hereafter and for ever; consider him, fix your thoughts upon him with the greatest attention, and act towards him accordingly; look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. Here observe, 1. Many that profess faith in Christ have not a due consideration for him; he is not so much thought of as he deserves to be, and desires to be, by those that expect salvation from him. 2. Close and serious consideration of Christ would be of great advantage to us to increase our acquaintance with him, and to engage our love and our obedience to him, and reliance on him. 3. Even those that are holy brethren, and partakers of the heavenly calling, have need to stir up one another to think more of Christ than they do, to have him more in their minds; the best of his people think too seldom and too slightly of him. 4. We must consider Christ as he is described to us in the scriptures, and form our apprehensions of him thence, not from any vain conceptions and fancies of our own. III. We have several arguments drawn up to enforce this duty of considering Christ the apostle and high priest of our profession. 1. The first is taken from his fidelity, Heb 3:2. He was faithful to him that appointed him, as Moses was in all his house. (1.) Christ is an appointed Mediator; God the Father has sent and sealed him to that office, and therefore his mediation is acceptable to the Father. (2.) He is faithful to that appointment, punctually observing all the rules and orders of his mediation, and fully executing the trust reposed in him by his Father and by his people. (3.) That he is as faithful to him that appointed him as Moses was in all his house. Moses was faithful in the discharge of his office to the Jewish church in the Old Testament, and so is Christ under the New; this was a proper argument to urge upon the Jews, who had so high an opinion of the faithfulness of Moses, and yet his faithfulness was but typical of Christ's. 2. Another argument is taken from the superior glory and excellence of Christ above Moses (Heb 3:3-6); therefore they were more obliged to consider Christ. (1.) Christ was a maker of the house, Moses but a member in it. By the house we are to understand the church of God, the people of God incorporated together under Christ their maker and head, and under subordinate officers, according to his law, observing his institutions. Christ is the maker of this house of the church in all ages: Moses was a minister in the house, he was instrumental under Christ in governing and edifying the house, but Christ is the maker of all things; for he is God, and no one less than God could build the church, either lay the foundation or carry on the superstructure. No less power was requisite to make the church than to make the world; the world was made out of nothing, the church made out of materials altogether unfit for such a building. Christ, who is God, drew the ground-plan of the church, provided the materials, and by almighty power disposed them to receive the form; he has compacted and united this his house, has settled the orders of it, and crowned all with his own presence, which is the true glory of this house of God. (2.) Christ was the master of this house, as well as the maker, Heb 3:5, Heb 3:6. This house is styled his house, as the Son of God. Moses was only a faithful servant, for a testimony of those things that were afterwards to be revealed. Christ, as the eternal Son of God, is the rightful owner and sovereign ruler of the church. Moses was only a typical governor, for a testimony of all those things relating to the church which would be more clearly, completely, and comfortably revealed in the gospel by the Spirit of Christ; and therefore Christ is worthy of more glory than Moses, and of greater regard and consideration. This argument the apostle concludes, [1.] With a comfortable accommodation of it to himself and all true believers (Heb 3:6). Whose house we are: each of us personally, as we are the temples of the Holy Ghost, and Christ dwells in us by faith; all of us jointly, as we are united by the bonds of graces, truths, ordinances, gospel discipline, and devotions. [2.] With a characteristic description of those persons who constitute this house: "If we hold fast the confidence, and the rejoicing of the hope, firmly to the end; that is, if we maintain a bold and open profession of the truths of the gospel, upon which our hopes of grace and glory are built, and live upon and up to those hopes, so as to have a holy rejoicing in them, which shall abide firm to the end, notwithstanding all that we may meet with in so doing." So that you see there must not only be a setting out well in the ways of Christ, but a stedfastness and perseverance therein unto the end. We have here a direction what those must do who would partake of the dignity and privileges of the household of Christ. First, They must take the truths of the gospel into their heads and hearts. Secondly, They must build their hopes of happiness upon those truths. Thirdly, They must make an open profession of those truths. Fourthly, They must live so up to them as to keep their evidences clear, that they may rejoice in hope, and then they must in all persevere to the end. In a word, they must walk closely, consistently, courageously, and constantly, in the faith and practice of the gospel, that their Master, when he comes, may own and approve them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1-6 The author compares Jesus to Moses, setting Jesus forward as the supreme example of faithfulness. The great status of Moses, a revered figure in Judaism, is used to show the incomparable greatness of Jesus. 3:1 dear brothers and sisters who belong to God: Literally holy brothers. Speakers and writers of the ancient world often addressed religious gatherings as “brothers” (Greek adelphoi), referring to both men and women. • think carefully about this Jesus: Focusing on Jesus is a primary means of persevering in the faith (2:9; 12:1-2). • God’s messenger (literally God’s apostle): This description might be highlighting the Son’s role in bearing a proclamation of God’s name and message (2:12; Matt 10:40; Mark 9:37; Luke 10:16).
Hebrews 3:1
Jesus Our Apostle and High Priest
1Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, set your focus on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess. 2He was faithful to the One who appointed Him, just as Moses was faithful in all God’s house.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews) 1-Overview-1
By Leonard Ravenhill50K47:07HebrewsROM 1:16GAL 3:10HEB 1:1HEB 2:3HEB 3:1HEB 10:19HEB 10:38In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing the book of Revelation and its portrayal of the end times. He expresses sorrow over the degradation and perversion in society, emphasizing the need for a revival. The preacher acknowledges the sacrifices made by martyrs and urges the congregation to follow in their footsteps. The sermon then transitions to a discussion of the epistle to the Hebrews, particularly focusing on the importance of faith as demonstrated by the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11.
(Hebrews) 6-Noah
By Leonard Ravenhill15K1:16:04NoahGEN 6:132TI 3:16HEB 2:1HEB 3:1HEB 11:1HEB 11:6REV 1:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of faith in pleasing God. He emphasizes that without faith, it is impossible to please God. The speaker also highlights the concept of worshiping God by gazing upon His attributes and redemptive work in Jesus Christ. The sermon mentions the example of Enoch, who cried out to the people about God's judgment, but was ignored. The speaker concludes by reminding the audience that faith is what enables individuals to achieve great things and overcome challenges.
"Hebrews" Monday - Part 1 (Keswick Convention 2003)
By Charles Price9.3K20:35Keswick ConventionGEN 1:1HEB 1:1HEB 3:1HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the use of drama and personal experiences in conveying God's message. He then introduces the letter to the Hebrews and emphasizes the importance of studying the Bible. The speaker explains that God has spoken to humanity through various means in the past, such as prophets, but now Christ is the superior revelation. The sermon highlights the superiority of Christ over the prophets and emphasizes the need to pay attention to the obvious truths that we often overlook.
Revival Series 2
By Leonard Ravenhill7.2K54:24RevivalHEB 2:3HEB 3:1JUD 1:17JUD 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of immersing oneself in the Word of God. He shares his personal experience of realizing that he needed to be obedient to God and disciplined in his study of the Bible. The speaker criticizes those who prioritize money and entertainment over spiritual matters, stating that the only solution to the world's problems is a spiritual one found in the Church of the Living God. He also highlights the significance of memorizing scripture and warns against neglecting the little things that can have a big impact on our lives.
Hebrews 11 - Part 5
By Leonard Ravenhill5.6K1:04:27HEB 2:1HEB 3:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the challenges of evangelizing in a world filled with lust and lewdness. He shares a story of a young man who is disheartened by the lack of passion and vision in those he encounters while evangelizing in New York. The preacher emphasizes the importance of finding and following the will of God, even when it goes against the norm. He also highlights the need for patience and references biblical examples, such as Noah building the ark for 120 years. The sermon concludes with a critique of how often people engage in religious activities without truly experiencing the presence of God.
What Is Apostolic?
By Art Katz4.2K1:15:19ApostolicHEB 3:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of apostolic ministry and its distinction from other forms of ministry. He begins by describing a powerful and transformative experience that a person goes through when they realize that their entire life has been a lie and that they have been persecuting God. The speaker then introduces a paper written by Bob Gladstone on the topic of apostolic ministry and suggests reading and discussing it. The sermon concludes with a prayer for guidance and a request for the Holy Spirit to refresh and enlighten the listeners.
Beginning Faith
By Leonard Ravenhill3.2K50:07FaithHEB 1:1HEB 2:2HEB 3:1HEB 11:39HEB 12:25In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about a young man who arrives in a strange country and meets someone who resembles his father. The preacher uses this illustration to emphasize the importance of walking as Jesus walked. He then discusses a man who demonstrated great faith by making a legal document promising to pay a large sum of money despite having only 14 cents in his pocket. The preacher encourages the audience to have faith and trust in God's provision. He also references biblical examples of people who accomplished great things in the power of the Holy Spirit, despite facing opposition and persecution. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the greatness of salvation and the need for compassion in fulfilling the mission of spreading the gospel.
Hebrews 1, 2 & 3 - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks3.1K56:32ExpositionalEXO 25:10HEB 1:1HEB 1:10HEB 2:11HEB 3:1HEB 6:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of looking again at Jesus and understanding the greatness of Christ. The speaker encourages the audience to recognize that there is nothing greater than being joined to Jesus and being a fellow member of Christ. The sermon highlights the significance of hearing God speak in His Son and emphasizes that God has spoken to us through Jesus, who is the heir of all things and the image of God's substance. The speaker urges the audience to give earnest heed to the things that were heard and to open the letter to the Hebrews for further understanding.
Nor-01 a True Apostle
By Art Katz2.9K44:08ApostleGEN 1:2JHN 1:1EPH 2:191TH 1:31TH 1:5HEB 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of relationships and how God brings people together at the right time. He mentions how everyone in the room has been prepared by the Lord in different places. The speaker then encourages the audience to go back to their own people and share the gospel with power and conviction. He highlights that being Gentiles should not be a threat to the Jewish people, as they are part of a heavenly kingdom. The speaker also mentions that God chose the Jewish people not because they were the greatest, but because they were the least, and he emphasizes the power of the gospel message despite its foolishness to the natural mind.
Enter Into Rest
By Zac Poonen2.5K1:07:31RestPSA 51:6MAT 11:28JHN 14:18EPH 2:6HEB 3:1HEB 4:4HEB 4:9In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the Israelites' experience in the wilderness and how God provided for them with manna and water for 40 years. Despite witnessing miracles and receiving daily provisions, God was still angry with them. The speaker then shifts to the state of the church in the first century and the present day, highlighting the need for believers to come up higher and see things from God's standpoint. The sermon emphasizes the importance of faith and belief in receiving the promises of God, as demonstrated by the Israelites' failure to enter the Promised Land. The speaker also discusses the role of the peace of Christ as a referee in our hearts, indicating when we have done something wrong and need to repent.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K51:26Heavenly CallingLUK 5:7HEB 1:9HEB 2:14HEB 3:1HEB 3:14HEB 6:4HEB 12:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the ministry being focused on bringing glory to the Lord Jesus. The speaker explains that while the ministry involves work and instruction in the things of the Lord, it is also a time for encouragement and spiritual growth. The sermon then delves into the book of Hebrews, highlighting the idea of believers being companions of Christ and holding fast to their faith. The speaker also discusses the overarching purpose of God throughout the Bible, emphasizing that God works in relation to his Son and his purpose will ultimately be realized.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 12
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K54:52Heavenly CallingHEB 1:4HEB 3:1HEB 3:14HEB 6:9HEB 7:19HEB 7:22HEB 8:6HEB 9:23HEB 10:34HEB 11:16HEB 11:35HEB 11:40HEB 12:24The sermon transcript discusses the theme of "better" in the book of Hebrews. The speaker highlights various verses in the book that emphasize the concept of "better," such as better than the angels, better things, better hope, better covenant, better promises, and better sacrifices. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a large conception of Jesus in order to navigate through trouble and testing. The letter was written to encourage Christians to persevere and not draw back from their faith, reminding them of their heavenly calling and the better things that await them.
Christianity: Shadow of Reality
By Stephen Kaung1.7K53:15ChristianityEXO 25:40ROM 8:2HEB 1:1HEB 3:1HEB 8:5HEB 10:1HEB 12:25In this sermon, the speaker discusses the bondage that many Christians find themselves in today. He highlights the lack of understanding of God's law and how it operates in believers. The sermon also addresses the prevalence of mediators and spiritual leaders who are seen as more knowledgeable and trained, while laypeople are often marginalized. The speaker also criticizes the focus on earthly blessings and prosperity in Christianity, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of Christ and the unity of believers. Additionally, the sermon warns of the challenges and shaking that Christians will face in their faith, urging them to press on towards perfection and be prepared for the coming of Christ.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K44:48Heavenly CallingGEN 12:1EXO 4:22MAT 6:33ACT 7:2HEB 3:1HEB 3:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the nation of Israel and how it relates to believers in Christ. He emphasizes that God sees the nation as one son and will not surrender any part of it. The speaker also highlights the importance of recognizing God's intervention in our lives and how it marks a turning point in our personal history. He encourages listeners to bring the message of God's intervention into their own lives and to understand that they are called to be companions of Christ in a heavenly calling.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1.5K51:45Heavenly CallingHEB 3:1HEB 3:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the two main themes running through the four gospels: the Jewish idea of the Messiah and the Kingdom of God, and the heavenly idea. The four gospels show the rejection of those who rejected Jesus by God, and the establishment of God's eternal plan through his son. The speaker emphasizes that the Jewish idea of an earthly system has been gone for two thousand years, while God's kingdom has been established. The sermon encourages young Christians to deepen their understanding of the Bible and commit themselves to Jesus.
Christian Maturity
By Peet Botha1.4K1:15:48MaturityHEB 1:1HEB 2:3HEB 3:1HEB 4:1HEB 9:11HEB 9:24HEB 10:18In this sermon, the speaker addresses the concern among some Christians that Jesus Christ has not yet returned. He emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in their faith and not turning back to Judaism. The speaker highlights the need to combine knowledge of Christ with personal faith in order to truly experience salvation. He urges the audience to fix their thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest, and to continue growing in their understanding of Christ and repentance from sinful acts.
The Saviours Sufferings the Saints Theirs
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:14:35Suffering For ChristHEB 3:11PE 2:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obedience and respect, both in the context of the court and in the relationship between slaves and masters. He refers to Peter's defense before the court and Paul's teachings on conscience in the New Testament. The preacher also highlights the significance of the Holy Spirit speaking expressly in the last days, indicating that we are currently living in the last days before Christ's return. He concludes by emphasizing the expectation of consistency in our actions as believers.
(Hebrews) ch.1:1-3:8
By Zac Poonen1.4K1:15:09MAT 17:8HEB 1:1HEB 3:1HEB 6:1HEB 6:20HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of looking to Jesus as the ultimate example and source of God's final message to mankind. The book of Hebrews repeatedly urges believers to consider Jesus and hear Him. Jesus is described as the forerunner, having lived a sinless life and showing humanity how God intended them to live. The writer of Hebrews encourages believers to not stop at the foundational aspects of their faith, but to press on to perfection, which is the desire of the Holy Spirit. The letter highlights the fullness of salvation, which not only forgives sins but also leads believers to perfection.
Christ, Our Great High Priest
By Paris Reidhead1.2K36:23Jesus ChristROM 8:282CO 5:21HEB 3:1HEB 4:14HEB 5:14HEB 7:251PE 1:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the theme of holiness throughout the Bible. He highlights that God desires a holy people and that the Bible is a holy scripture that reveals the holy Son of God who died and rose again. The preacher explains that Jesus came to save his people from their sins and to deliver them from the bondage of Satan. He emphasizes that God's purpose in grace is to conform his people to the image of his Son, and this is achieved through the intercessory ministry of Jesus Christ, our great high priest.
Hebrews Chapter 3
By Chip Brogden1.2K30:03ExpositionalHEB 3:1HEB 3:7In this video, Chip Brogdon continues his series on the book of Hebrews, specifically focusing on chapter 3. He highlights the danger of rebelling against the new covenant that God has established, drawing parallels to the rebellion of the Israelites in the wilderness. Paul's warning in verse 12 to beware of having an evil heart of unbelief and departing from the living God is emphasized. The importance of exhorting one another daily and not being hardened by the deceitfulness of sin is also emphasized. The video concludes with a reminder to enter into the rest that God has provided and not repeat the mistakes of the ancestors who rejected it and perished in the wilderness.
Hebrews 3:1-6
By Don McClure1.1K39:02ACT 3:22ROM 2:17ROM 2:29HEB 3:1HEB 4:16HEB 8:2HEB 10:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the encounter of two disciples with Jesus after his resurrection. Jesus explains to them the significance of his suffering and death, starting from Moses and the Old Testament scriptures. The preacher highlights the frustration of Moses in leading the Israelites out of Egypt but not being able to lead them into the Promised Land due to their lack of faith. The sermon also mentions the provision of manna to the Israelites in the wilderness and the role of Pharaoh's daughter in raising Moses.
But We See Jesus - Part 4
By Stephen Kaung1.1K1:22:21Heavenly CallingWorship and CommunityHEB 3:1HEB 10:19Stephen Kaung emphasizes the majesty and supremacy of Jesus Christ, urging believers to recognize their heavenly calling and to worship Him in spirit and truth. He explains that through Christ's sacrifice, believers have access to the Holy of Holies and are called to live a life of faith, hope, and love, moving beyond the shadows of religious traditions. Kaung encourages the congregation to separate from worldly distractions and to fully embrace their identity as citizens of heaven, living in accordance with their calling. He stresses the importance of community and mutual encouragement among believers as they await the return of Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with Jesus, who is the true substance of faith.
Hebrews Chapter 4
By Chip Brogden1.1K30:11ExpositionalMAT 6:33JHN 1:1JHN 1:14HEB 3:1HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing that Jesus is our high priest and final sacrifice, deserving more glory than Moses. The sermon focuses on the book of Hebrews, specifically Hebrews 3 and 4. The preacher highlights the importance of entering into God's rest through Jesus Christ, rather than relying on our own religious efforts. The sermon also emphasizes the power and living nature of the Word of God, which is personified as Jesus Christ himself.
You Are Called (Compilation)
By Compilations93308:17CompilationPSA 105:19ISA 41:10MAT 6:33ACT 2:37ACT 2:42PHP 3:17HEB 3:1In this sermon, the preacher addresses the cry of those seeking reality and the power of God. He emphasizes the importance of prayer and seeking God's instructions. The preacher also highlights the need for believers to boldly declare who God is and what He has promised. He warns against being enemies of the cross by focusing on earthly things and selfish desires. The preacher also cautions against approaching the sacrifice of Christ with a selfish mindset, seeking personal gain rather than true transformation.
Priests of God
By Art Katz9111:23:33HEB 3:1HEB 7:3HEB 8:1HEB 8:4HEB 8:6HEB 8:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of embracing the priestly calling alongside the apostolic calling, highlighting the need for a deep sense of priestliness that is often lacking among God's people. It challenges individuals to wait on God, sacrifice self-interest, and be consecrated before Him to experience the radiance and authority of a Melchizedek priesthood. The speaker calls for a transformation from earthly-mindedness to heavenly-mindedness, urging a commitment to live in the presence of God and reflect His glory in all aspects of life.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Holy brethren - Persons consecrated to God, as the word literally implies, and called, in consequence, to be holy in heart, holy in life, and useful in the world. The Israelites are often called a holy people, saints, etc., because consecrated to God, and because they were bound by their profession to be holy; and yet these appellations are given to them in numberless instances where they were very unholy. The not attending to this circumstance, and the not discerning between actual positive holiness, and the call to it, as the consecration of the persons, has led many commentators and preachers into destructive mistakes. Antinomianism has had its origin here: and as it was found that many persons were called saints, who, in many respects, were miserable sinners, hence it has been inferred that they were called saints in reference to a holiness which they had in another; and hence the Antinomian imputation of Christ's righteousness to unholy believers, whose hearts were abominable before God, and whose lives were a scandal to the Gospel. Let, therefore, a due distinction be made between persons by their profession holy, i.e. consecrated to God; and persons who are faithful to that profession, and are both inwardly and outwardly holy. They are not all Israel who are of Israel: a man, by a literal circumcision, may be a Jew outwardly; but the circumcision of the heart by the Spirit makes a man a Jew inwardly. A man may be a Christian in profession, and not such in heart; and those who pretend that, although they are unholy in themselves, they are reputed holy in Christ, because his righteousness is imputed to them, most awfully deceive their own souls. Dr. Owen has spoken well on the necessity of personal holiness against the Antinomians of his day. "If a man be not made holy he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. It is this that makes them meet for the inheritance of the saints in light; as without it they are not meet for their duty, so are they not capable of their reward. Yea, heaven itself, in the true light and notion of it, is undesirable to an unsanctified person. Such a one neither can nor would enjoy God if he might. In a word, there is no one thing required of the sons of God that an unsanctified person can do, and no one thing promised unto them that he can enjoy. "There is surely then a woful mistake in the world. If Christ sanctify all whom he saves, many will appear to have been mistaken in their expectations at another day. It is grown amongst us almost an abhorrency to all flesh to say, the Church of God is to be holy. What! though God has promised that it should be so; that Christ has undertaken to make it so? What! if it be required to be so? What! if all the duties of it be rejected of God, if it be not so? It is all one, if men be baptized, whether they will or not, and outwardly profess the name of Christ, though not one of them be truly sanctified, yet they are, it is said, the Church of Christ. Why then let them be so; but what are they the better for it? Are their persons or their services therefore accepted with God? Are they related or united to Christ? Are they under his conduct unto glory? Are they meet for the inheritance of the saints in light? Not at all: not all nor any of these things do they obtain thereby. What is it then that they get by the furious contest which they make for the reputation of this privilege? Only this: that, satisfying their minds by it, resting if not priding themselves in it, they obtain many advantages to stifle all convictions of their condition, and so perish unavoidably. A sad success, and for ever to be bewailed! Yet is there nothing at all at this day more contended for in this world than that Christ might be thought to be a captain of salvation to them, unto whom he is not a sanctifier; that he may have an unholy Church, a dead body. These things tend neither to the glory of Christ, nor to the good of the souls of men. Let none then deceive themselves; sanctification is a qualification indispensably necessary to them who will be under the conduct of the Lord Christ unto salvation; he leads none to heaven but whom he sanctifies on earth. The holy God will not receive unholy persons. This living head will not admit of dead members, nor bring men into possession of a glory which they neither love nor like." Heavenly calling - The Israelites had an earthly calling; they were called out of Egypt to go into the promised land: Christians have a heavenly calling; they are invited to leave the bondage of sin, and go to the kingdom of God. These were made partakers of this calling; they had already embraced the Gospel, and were brought into a state of salvation. Apostle and High Priest of our profession - Among the Jews the high priest was considered to be also the apostle of God; and it is in conformity to this notion that the apostle speaks. And he exhorts the Hebrews to consider Jesus Christ to be both their High Priest and Apostle; and to expect these offices to be henceforth fulfilled by him, and by him alone. This was the fullest intimation that the Mosaic economy was at an end, and the priesthood changed. By της ὁμολογιας ἡμων, our profession, or that confession of ours, the apostle undoubtedly means the Christian religion. Jesus was the Apostle of the Father, and has given to mankind the new covenant; and we are to consider the whole system of Christianity as coming immediately from him. Every system of religion must have a priest and a prophet; the one to declare the will of God, the other to minister in holy things. Moses was the apostle under the old testament, and Aaron the priest. When Moses was removed, the prophets succeeded him; and the sons of Aaron were the priests after the death of their father. This system is now annulled; and Jesus is the Prophet who declares the Father's will, and he is the Priest who ministers in the things pertaining to God, see Heb 2:17; as he makes atonement for the sins of the people, and is the Mediator between God and man.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore, holy brethren,.... The apostle calls the Hebrews "brethren", not because they were of the same natural stock and lineage, but because they were in the same spiritual relation; they all had the same Father, belonged to the same family, were the adopted sons of God, the brethren of Christ, of one another, and of the apostle; and they were "holy", not by birth, nor by their external separation from other nations, but through sanctification of the Spirit; and they were so by profession, and in the opinion of the apostle: partakers of the heavenly calling; by which is meant not any business, or employment of life; nor a call to any office in church or state; nor a mere external call by the ministry of the word; but an internal special call of grace, to the enjoyment of the blessings of grace here, and to glory hereafter; and which is not according, to works, but according to the grace of God, and is by powerful, efficacious, and irresistible grace: and this is said to be "heavenly", because the grace by which the saints are called is from heaven, and it is to heaven they are called; and the means of their calling, the Gospel, is from heaven; and this epistle epithet is used to show the excellency of their calling, and to distinguish it from all others: and this the Hebrews are said to be "partakers of"; which shows, that God had not utterly cast off that people, and yet that they were not the only persons that enjoyed the grace of the effectual calling, they were but partners with others; and that the saints are alike sharers in this blessing, they are called in one hope of their calling; and it denotes the truth and reality of it: the duty they are exhorted to is, to consider the apostle and high priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions, read, only "Jesus"; who is called "the apostle", because he was sent of God to preach the Gospel, work miracles, and do the will of God, particularly to obtain redemption and salvation for his people, which mission does not suppose any inequality of persons, or change of place, or any compulsion or disrespect to Christ, but love to men; and is to be understood of him as in office as Mediator, and shows his authority, and that he was no impostor. The high priest among the Jews was, on the day of atonement, considered as "an apostle", or "messenger" (s); for so the elders of the sanhedrim address him on that day, saying, "Lord high priest, we are the messengers of the sanhedrim, and thou art "our apostle", or "messenger", and the messenger of the sanhedrim.'' And it follows here, and "the high priest of our profession"; which may be understood either objectively, whom they professed, both by words or deeds; for a profession of him should be public, visible, and sincere; or efficiently, he being the author, sum, and substance of the religion, faith, and Gospel which was professed by them: and he is to be "considered" in the greatness and dignity of his person, as the Son of God; and in his wondrous grace and love in assuming human nature, and dying for his people; and in the relations he stands in to them as a Father, husband, brother, friend; and in his several offices, as Mediator, and particularly as sent of God, to be the Saviour of sinners; and as the high priest, who has offered himself a sacrifice, and ever lives to make intercession; and all this to encourage the saints to hold fast their profession of him. (s) Misn. Yoma, c. 1. sect. 5.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses we have the application of the doctrine laid down in the close of the last chapter concerning the priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ. And observe, I. In how fervent and affectionate a manner the apostle exhorts Christians to have this high priest much in their thoughts, and to make him the object of their close and serious consideration; and surely no one in earth or heaven deserves our consideration more than he. That this exhortation might be made the more effectual, observe, 1. The honourable compellation used towards those to whom he wrote: Holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling. (1.) Brethren, not only my brethren, but the brethren of Christ, and in him brethren to all the saints. All the people of God are brethren, and should love and live like brethren. (2.) Holy brethren; holy not only in profession and title, but in principle and practice, in heart and life. This has been turned by some into scorn: "These," say they, "are the holy brethren;" but it is dangerous jesting with such edge-tools; be not mockers, lest your bands be made strong. Let those that are thus despised and scorned labour to be holy brethren indeed, and approve themselves so to God; and they need not be ashamed of the title nor dread the scoffs of the profane. The day is coming when those that make this a term of reproach would count it their greatest honour and happiness to be taken into this sacred brotherhood. (3.) Partakers of the heavenly calling - partakers of the means of grace, and of the Spirit of grace, that came from heaven, and by which Christians are effectually called out of darkness into marvelous light, that calling which brings down heaven into the souls of men, raises them up to a heavenly temper and conversation, and prepares them to live for ever with God in heaven. 2. The titles he gives to Christ, whom he would have them consider, (1.) As the apostle of our profession, the prime-minister of the gospel church, a messenger and a principal messenger sent of God to men, upon the most important errand, the great revealer of that faith which we profess to hold and of that hope which we profess to have. (2.) Not only the apostle, but the high priest too, of our profession, the chief officer of the Old Testament as well as the New, the head of the church in every state, and under each dispensation, upon whose satisfaction and intercession we profess to depend for pardon of sin, and acceptance with God. (3.) As Christ, the Messiah, anointed and every way qualified for the office both of apostle and high priest. (4.) As Jesus, our Saviour, our healer, the great physician of souls, typified by the brazen serpent that Moses lifted up in the wilderness, that those who were stung by the fiery serpents might look to him, and be saved. II. We have the duty we owe to him who bears all these high and honourable titles, and that is to consider him as thus characterized. Consider what he is in himself, what he is to us, and what he will be to us hereafter and for ever; consider him, fix your thoughts upon him with the greatest attention, and act towards him accordingly; look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. Here observe, 1. Many that profess faith in Christ have not a due consideration for him; he is not so much thought of as he deserves to be, and desires to be, by those that expect salvation from him. 2. Close and serious consideration of Christ would be of great advantage to us to increase our acquaintance with him, and to engage our love and our obedience to him, and reliance on him. 3. Even those that are holy brethren, and partakers of the heavenly calling, have need to stir up one another to think more of Christ than they do, to have him more in their minds; the best of his people think too seldom and too slightly of him. 4. We must consider Christ as he is described to us in the scriptures, and form our apprehensions of him thence, not from any vain conceptions and fancies of our own. III. We have several arguments drawn up to enforce this duty of considering Christ the apostle and high priest of our profession. 1. The first is taken from his fidelity, Heb 3:2. He was faithful to him that appointed him, as Moses was in all his house. (1.) Christ is an appointed Mediator; God the Father has sent and sealed him to that office, and therefore his mediation is acceptable to the Father. (2.) He is faithful to that appointment, punctually observing all the rules and orders of his mediation, and fully executing the trust reposed in him by his Father and by his people. (3.) That he is as faithful to him that appointed him as Moses was in all his house. Moses was faithful in the discharge of his office to the Jewish church in the Old Testament, and so is Christ under the New; this was a proper argument to urge upon the Jews, who had so high an opinion of the faithfulness of Moses, and yet his faithfulness was but typical of Christ's. 2. Another argument is taken from the superior glory and excellence of Christ above Moses (Heb 3:3-6); therefore they were more obliged to consider Christ. (1.) Christ was a maker of the house, Moses but a member in it. By the house we are to understand the church of God, the people of God incorporated together under Christ their maker and head, and under subordinate officers, according to his law, observing his institutions. Christ is the maker of this house of the church in all ages: Moses was a minister in the house, he was instrumental under Christ in governing and edifying the house, but Christ is the maker of all things; for he is God, and no one less than God could build the church, either lay the foundation or carry on the superstructure. No less power was requisite to make the church than to make the world; the world was made out of nothing, the church made out of materials altogether unfit for such a building. Christ, who is God, drew the ground-plan of the church, provided the materials, and by almighty power disposed them to receive the form; he has compacted and united this his house, has settled the orders of it, and crowned all with his own presence, which is the true glory of this house of God. (2.) Christ was the master of this house, as well as the maker, Heb 3:5, Heb 3:6. This house is styled his house, as the Son of God. Moses was only a faithful servant, for a testimony of those things that were afterwards to be revealed. Christ, as the eternal Son of God, is the rightful owner and sovereign ruler of the church. Moses was only a typical governor, for a testimony of all those things relating to the church which would be more clearly, completely, and comfortably revealed in the gospel by the Spirit of Christ; and therefore Christ is worthy of more glory than Moses, and of greater regard and consideration. This argument the apostle concludes, [1.] With a comfortable accommodation of it to himself and all true believers (Heb 3:6). Whose house we are: each of us personally, as we are the temples of the Holy Ghost, and Christ dwells in us by faith; all of us jointly, as we are united by the bonds of graces, truths, ordinances, gospel discipline, and devotions. [2.] With a characteristic description of those persons who constitute this house: "If we hold fast the confidence, and the rejoicing of the hope, firmly to the end; that is, if we maintain a bold and open profession of the truths of the gospel, upon which our hopes of grace and glory are built, and live upon and up to those hopes, so as to have a holy rejoicing in them, which shall abide firm to the end, notwithstanding all that we may meet with in so doing." So that you see there must not only be a setting out well in the ways of Christ, but a stedfastness and perseverance therein unto the end. We have here a direction what those must do who would partake of the dignity and privileges of the household of Christ. First, They must take the truths of the gospel into their heads and hearts. Secondly, They must build their hopes of happiness upon those truths. Thirdly, They must make an open profession of those truths. Fourthly, They must live so up to them as to keep their evidences clear, that they may rejoice in hope, and then they must in all persevere to the end. In a word, they must walk closely, consistently, courageously, and constantly, in the faith and practice of the gospel, that their Master, when he comes, may own and approve them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1-6 The author compares Jesus to Moses, setting Jesus forward as the supreme example of faithfulness. The great status of Moses, a revered figure in Judaism, is used to show the incomparable greatness of Jesus. 3:1 dear brothers and sisters who belong to God: Literally holy brothers. Speakers and writers of the ancient world often addressed religious gatherings as “brothers” (Greek adelphoi), referring to both men and women. • think carefully about this Jesus: Focusing on Jesus is a primary means of persevering in the faith (2:9; 12:1-2). • God’s messenger (literally God’s apostle): This description might be highlighting the Son’s role in bearing a proclamation of God’s name and message (2:12; Matt 10:40; Mark 9:37; Luke 10:16).