Read Hebrews 2:16-17 aloud.

Hebrews 2:16-17 (ESV): 

“For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”

1. Vs 16 tells us that it’s not angels whom Jesus helps, but the offspring of Abraham. What does it mean to be an offspring of Abraham? Read the following passages for reference.

“But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel, and not all are children of Abraham because they are his offspring, but “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.” This means that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring.” Romans 9:6-8 ESV

“Just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”? Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.” So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.” Galatians 3:6-9 ESV

2. Vs. 17 says that Jesus had to be made like His brothers in every respect. In what ways is it comforting to know that Jesus can sympathize with us in our trials and temptations?

3. Vs. 17 also tells us that Jesus (our great high priest) made propitiation for our sins. He didn’t just make a sacrifice but He WAS the sacrifice. He appeased God’s wrath and turned it to favor on our behalf.

What should we think of this in our life? Why is God’s wrath necessary?

4. What was your main takeaway from this morning’s message? 

5. How can we pray for you in this season?