May 19-23
Overview: Benediction & Farewell (Hebrews 13:20-25)
The author of Hebrews has spent a great deal of time teaching, guiding, challenging, and equipping his audience. He has had many things to write to these Jewish Christians who were being persecuted. The passage emphasizes the eternal relationship between God and his people, which was secured by the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 13:20-25 is a benediction, “an utterance or bestowing of a blessing”. The author is giving a blessing to his audience as part of his conclusion.
The amazing thing about God’s Word is that the statements in the benediction apply not only to the original audience but to believers today because the truths found in it still ring true. God is a God of peace. God raised Jesus from the dead. He will equip every believer for doing His will forever. God works in the lives of believers to help them please Him.
Day 1: Grace, Blessings, Prayer (Hebrews 13:20-25)
1. The author includes a statement of blessings for and over his audience. When are blessings given today?
2. Which part of the benediction most encourages you? Why?
3. With which part of the benediction do you struggle? Why?
4. How can you use your spoken or written words to be a blessing to those around you?
Day 2: God of Peace (Bible Survey)
1. How is God described in these verses?
Psalm 29:11
Isaiah 9:6
Romans 15:33
1 Corinthians 14:33
2. Why is it important to know and remember that God is a God of peace?
3. Where do you need God’s peace in your life?
Day 3: God Raised Jesus from Death (New Testament Survey)
1. What do the following verses say about Jesus’ resurrection?
Acts 2:24
Acts 10:39-40
Romans 8:11
2 Corinthians 4:14
2. What is the significance of God raising Jesus from the dead?
Day 4: God Equips Us to Do His Will (New Testament Survey)
1. What gifts, talents, and abilities has God given you?
2. What works are you doing right now that God called you to do?
3. What is God calling you to do differently or to continue doing for Him?
4. Reflect on these verses and encourage yourself on how God’s Word is a gift given for us to use daily.
Romans 12:5-8
Ephesians 2:8-10
Philippians 1:3-6
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Day 5: God Is Working In Me (New Testament Survey)
1. When have you recently depended on God to work for you? What was the result?
2. When is it hard to depend on God’s strength? In what areas of life do you/we need to depend more on God’s strength rather than our own abilities or lack thereof?
3. Based on the passages below, how does God work in and through believers’ lives?
John 15:4-5
Galatians 2:20
Philippians 2:12-13
1 Peter 4:11