Exhortations From Hebrews 4

“EXHORTATIONS”

Introduction: In Hebrews 13:22, the author refers to his letter as a “word of exhortation”. We find throughout the epistle several tines where the exhortation, “Let us therefore...” is used.  Let us examine the use of this expression as it is found in chapter 4.

I.               “Let us therefore fear...” (4:1)

                             A.     Remember the Israelites in the wilderness. (3:14-19)

1.     They were blessed by God by being brought out of Egypt.

2.     They were heirs of great promises and further blessings.

3.     They were sustained by the might of God in the wilderness.

4.     Yet, through hardness of heart, they sinned and forfeited the promised blessings.

B.     Beware that the blessings and promises of Christ are not forfeited.

1.     It happened to them, it could happen to us.

                                        2.      Let us have a healthy fear - one that will keep us on course.

II.              “Let us therefore labor...” (4:11)

                             A.     To those in Moses day, the word was preached.

1.     The word concerned the rest God had prepared for them.

2.     But, the word was not “mixed with faith” on the part of them that heard. (4:2)

3.     Hence, they did not enter in. (4:6)

                               B.      We must labor to enter.

1. The rest remains.

                                     2. It is a better rest that awaits us.

                                      3. But, labor is necessary so the rest can be attained and enjoyed.

III. “Let us hold fast our profession…” (4:14)

IV. “Let us therefore come boldly...” (4:16)

A.    Our high priest is a great one.

                                             1. He has passed through the heavens. (4:14)

2. He is touched with the feelings of our infirmities. (4:15)

3. He was tempted in all points like as we are. (4:15)

4. He is sinless. (4:15)

B.     Since our high priest possesses these characteristics:

1.     We must have confidence to approach him with boldness.

2.     If we have such boldness, we will receive:

a.      Mercy (cf. 8:12).

b.      Grace in tine of need.

Conclusion:  What great blessings are ours to enjoy, if we will keep in mind the three exhortations of Hebrews 4!