Week of June 19, 2011

Jesus Recovered our Lost Identity
Hebrews 2:5-9
Series: All About Jesus

We are created for so much more. Yet, because of our sin, by nature and choice, Jesse showed that our intended destiny was lost. However, the beauty of our redeeming God is that Jesus has recovered our destiny through His life and sacrifice. The writer of Hebrews fleshed out the reality that Jesus is far greater than the angels, as He is Creator God. The only way for us to live to our intended purpose is to worship Jesus in spirit and in truth. So, for us as humans, this demands a response in how we live. 1. Read Heb. 2:5-9. What is God's intended purpose for man?

2. Read Heb. 2:8. The writer shows that everything was put under care and stewardship of man, however, sin caused the loss of our destiny. Jesse stated, "We do not rule." Share some specific ways you have observed creation corrupted by sin?

3. Read Heb. 2:9. It's always and continuously about Jesus! Share how this verse shows that reality. Also, go around the room and take a moment for everyone to speak spontaneous praises about our Redeemer and Rescuer, King Jesus!

4. The only way for us to be in our role of stewards is for the curse to be removed. Read Rom. 6:5-11 and Gal. 2:20. How do these passages show our identity? Share what hope this gives you?

5. Pastor Jesse noted that all of these important and necessary doctrinal truths about Jesus demand a response. We must understand that we must live differently, not just 'know' differently. We must live with our future reality in mind and not be so easily distracted or so busy that it takes our eyes off of eternity. Read Matthew 6:19-24. How does this truth of storing up treasures in heaven look like in your life?

6. Jesse noted that three ways to live are survival, success or Jesus-saturated significance. We are to be careful and intentional with how we live. Regardless of what we want to be committed to, Jesse stated that, what you think about most and where you spend your most valuable resources of time, talents and money actually shows what you are committed to. Read Eph. 5:15-17. What might be one specific change that needs to be made by God's grace?

Homework this week:
…spend some generous amounts of time praising Jesus for His superiority
…read Colossians 3; Romans 6; 2 Cor. 5:14-21; Gal. 2:20
...meditate or journal on our identity and life in Christ from these rich passages