My Word of Exhortation

This Wednesday evening, September 3, is the beginning of a new study for adults in the auditorium. It will be a focus on the book of Hebrews entitled, “My Word of Exhortation.” This is the phrase the writer of Hebrews himself uses to describe this book.           

 There are several exhortations scattered all through the book of Hebrews. They begin in our English Bibles with the words, “Let us…” In the course of our study we will highlight these exhortations, and see what promise they hold for the life of the church today.           

 In 2013 Jacobus Kok wrote some an article highlighting the function of moral exhortation in the book of James. 4 of his several categories appear to help enlighten us about its usage in the book of Hebrews. Consequently, the function of exhortations has at least the following concerns: ethics of the community, context of honest and frank speech, acting according to identity, and mutual responsibility.   

Exhortation is designed to keep the ethical guidelines before the faith community. What is not verbally spoken before the community becomes lost. Expectations of living and ethical parameters need constant reminders.            

Exhortation is given in the context of frank and open speech. This frankness and openness allows the community of faith to address what is systemically a problem.   

Exhortation reminds readers of their fundamental identity. Living the Christian life needs constant encouragement for those who claim to be Christian.            

Finally, exhortation is seen as a mutual responsibility. It is given and received by all. This ebb and flow of giving and receiving moral exhortations keeps the entire community sensitive to the wisdom and guidance of all.    

Therefore, let us attend  the Wednesday night auditorium class!In Christian love, Curtis