These small group Bible studies of Hebrews contain outlines, cross-references, Bible study discussion questions, and applications. Visit our library of inductive Bible studies for more in depth inductive studies on this and other books of the Bible you can use in your small group.
Hebrews 10:26-39 Bible Study Guide With Discussion Questions
Outline
I. Christ’s sacrifice should motivate us to righteous living (26-31)
II. Jesus is worth suffering for as they had done (32-39)
I. Christ’s sacrifice should motivate us to righteous living (26-31)
Discussion Questions
• What does verse 26 mean?
• Do we become perfect when we become Christians?
• What is the difference between sinning and sinning willfully?
• How should people feel about the coming judgment?
• What is the basic warning given in this passage? How can we balance this teaching with the teaching of eternal security?
• Explain the logical argument of verses 28-29.
• Who is the person who tramples the Son of God under foot? How can this imagery deter us from sinning?
Cross References
1 John 3:4-10 – John warns us about practicing sin.
Verses on judgment:
Romans 14:12-13 – So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.
Revelation 20:11-15 – Great White Throne Judgment.
1 Peter 1:17 – Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.
Verse by Verse Commentary
1. Some people presume upon the grace of God. They claim license by doing whatever they like and then expecting that God will forgive them. We know that God can and does forgive. But there is a condition, genuine repentance. In verse 26, the writer warns those who sin deliberately. They plan to do it. They know they are going to do it. And they plan to offer up some prayer of confession afterward before they go away and do it again. For such a person who intentionally sins and willfully disregards Christ’s sacrifice, His sacrifice is not applied to them. They have not genuinely confessed and are therefore not forgiven or covered by the blood of Christ. Instead, such a person should expect judgment. Such a person should be afraid of the furious fire of judgment to come.
2. The writer gives an example from the Old Testament. Someone living in Old Testament times who breaks the law is judged without mercy, often to death. How much more sinful is it to spurn Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf. Grace should motivate us to serve God with a happy heart. But those people who are motivated by grace to sin more have profaned Jesus’ blood and have another thing coming.
3. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. These verses together should sever as a stark warning to those who go to church and listen to the Word, but then willfully reject it. Things may seem to go on with no problems for a while, but God will not allow these sins to go unpunished. He will take vengeance upon those who so disrespect what His Son went through on the cross.
II. Jesus is worth suffering for as they had done (32-39)
Discussion Questions
• Who is the “you” in these verses? What events do you think the writer is referring to?
• Who in the Bible was made a public spectacle? (Samson, Jesus)
• What was their attitude in the midst of suffering?
• How does your suffering for Christ compare to theirs?
• What is the better possession that they had? What other qualities of this were mentioned (it is lasting)?
• What character quality did they need in the midst of this suffering?
• Based on the context what actions would show that they “throw away” their confidence?
• How is it that we live by faith? What do you think is the opposite of living by faith?
• What does it mean to shrink back? Are you shrinking back or living by faith?
Cross References
1 Corinthians 4:9 – For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings.
Verses on suffering:
Romans 5:3-5 – Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
1 Peter 5:10 – And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
Romans 8:18 – I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Verse by Verse Commentary
1. The author reminds them of their previous willingness to face suffering. As they diligently followed after the Lord, they faced all kinds of trials and difficulties and persecutions, but they joyfully accepted it knowing what God had in store for them. Thus, the saints are encouraged to remember their previous passion for the gospel and self-sacrifice in being willing to face anything for the Lord. Lest they start to lose endurance and give up, the writer seeks to encourage them by reminding them of their previous godly attitude.
2. God has promised great things to those who endure to the end without giving up. He will return and He will preserve the souls of the faithful. He will bring about everything good which He has promised. For His part, He will not fail.
3. Therefore, the saints are encouraged to have faith and persevere and “not shrink back.” Think about your own lives for a moment. How excited were you when you first started following after Christ? How diligent were you in Bible study? Are you maintaining that same excitement and diligence you used to have? Or are there certain things you have quit and given up on?
Application: What do you need to do in order to obey the key principle in this passage?
Comment: What are your thoughts on this Hebrews 10:26-39 Bible study? We would love to hear your insights below in the comment section.
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