1. Hebrews 13 contains a number of instructions that are designed to help the Lord's people remain faithful to Him, especially during times of affliction. a. (vs.1-3) We are to show love and hospitality to others. b. (vs.4) We are to maintain faithfulness and purity in our marriage relations. c. (vs.5-6) We must avoid covetousness, and we are to be content. d. (vs.7) We are to remember those who have taught us. e. (vs.8-9) We are to follow Christ's example of steadfastness. 2. (vs.10-16) We are to offer sacrifices.
Discussion:
I. (vs.10-12) CHRIST IS OUR EXAMPLE OF SACRIFICE
A. (vs.10) Christians "have an altar" [place of sacrifice]. 1. It is not like the altar of the Old Testament (Exodus 27:1-8). 2. Those who serve the tabernacle have no right to this altar -- it is only for Christians. B. There is a similarity between the Lord's sacrifice and Old Testament sacrifices. 1. (vs.11) The bodies of the animals whose blood was brought into the sanctuary were burned "without the camp" (Leviticus 16:27-28). 2. (vs.12) Jesus, who gave Himself as a sacrifice for sins, was crucified "without the gate" [outside the city -- John 19:16-20]. C. The Lord's sacrifice is far greater than any animal sacrifice (7:26-27; 10:11-12). D. In addition to offering Himself as a sacrifice, . . .
II. (vs.13-16) THE LORD'S FOLLOWERS ARE TO OFFER SACRIFICES
A. Our sacrifices are greater than those offered under the old covenant in that they are "living" (Romans 12:1-2) and "spiritual" (1 Peter 2:5). B. (vs.13-14) We are to bear the Lord's reproach (1 Peter 4:12-16). 1. To do this we must go to Him without the camp. 2. We do this because we do not have a "continuing [lasting] city" (11:8-10, 13-16). 3. We look for a city "to come" (2 Peter 3:13-14). C. (vs.15) We are to offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually by Christ (Ephesians 5:19-20; Colossians 3:16-17). D. (vs.16) We are to do good and communicate (Romans 12:13; Galatians 6:9-10). 1. God is pleased with such sacrifices (Philippians 4:18). 2. He will not forget them (Hebrews 6:10).
