Sunday, December 14, 2014

SOAP 12/14/2014; Hebrews 13:8-9

Today's reading: Hebrews 12, 13; Jude 1

S) "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings; for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, through which those who were so occupied were not benefited."

Hebrews 13:8-9 (NASB)

O) The Writer is warning against "new" teachings about Jesus that were coming to light. There were many people being led astray, even as early as the book of Hebrews being written. False teachings that seem similar to the truth, are the most dangerous. This verse reminds us of the unchanging eternal nature of our Lord. The most important discipline we have, in guarding against false teaching, is to be rooted in the Word of God. Being strengthened by grace, by consistently being in the word (which is our spiritual food), will guard our hearts against false teachings that seem like a "new way" of looking at Jesus or Christianity.

A) Study this Word! I must stay grounded in my Bible, constantly. This is a beautiful reminder of the dependability of our God. He isn't going to suddenly change things up. Jesus ushered a new covenant (the New Testament), but it was after hundreds of prophecies, over thousands of years (throughout the Old Testament, pointing forward to the Messiah). The only unfulfilled prophecies now, are all end-time prophecies. When that time comes, we'll know. Until then, I need to remain consistent with the proven word of God, of which Jesus was the manifestation. The Word of God does not change, and neither does Jesus. If I am grounded in Him, then I cannot be fooled.

P) Father, thank You for Your faithfulness, trustworthy nature, and unchanging character. Open my eyes to see through deceptions. Remind me of the truth in Your words. Let me rely on them, and depend on them, alone. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

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