Grace is defined as unmerited divine assistance given individuals for their regeneration or sanctification.

Paul instructed the readers (Hebrews 4:14-5:10) to approach the throne of grace with confidence because Jesus was going before us. Jesus has experienced pain, suffering and temptation just as we do, so he can sympathize with us in our weakness.

Jesus was appointed by God to be the great high priest. It was the custom of the day for one to be appointed rather than elected or to become high priest of his own choosing.

Therefore, during Jesus’ life on earth he offered up prayers to the one who could save us all from death. He learned obedience to God and then became the source of salvation for us all.

Because Jesus Christ has gone before us, we are then able to receive mercy and grace to help us. Praise be to God!

• What was the purpose of the high priest in the time of Hebrews? (see Hebrew 5:1-3) You may also want to google this.
• Why is it important to us as Christians to know that Christ was tempted but went on to obey God? How does this help us in our everyday lives?
• What are your strongest temptations? How do you deal with them? What might help them loose some of their “grip” on you?
• What does grace mean to you?

How Do I Act?

1. Reflect on some support groups that you may or may not belong to. Why do support groups work? Think about starting a support group in your church for the community. Or start a small group for your church. Contact Cumberland Presbyterian Resources for study ideas. chm@cumberland.org.
2. List on a sheet of paper several temptations you have faced lately. Reflect on how you might avoid or overcome these temptations.
3. How do we teach children to stand firm against temptation and peer pressure? Have several sessions for children with programs designed to help inform them. For instance you might have a person from a drug rehabilitation center come and speak.
4. Reflect on how Christ was able to obey God. What thinking processes did he go through, from temptation to prayer and petition, and finally obedience?

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