The significance of the twelve “Let us” statements given in the book of Hebrews is that they are not given in random order. First we find “let us fear,” second is “let us be diligent,” third is “let us hold fast our confession.” Now we come to number four: “Let us draw near to the throne of grace.” Derek explains . . .

The word confession is described by Derek as meaning “saying the same thing as God has said in His Word.” We make the words of our mouth agree with what God has said in His Word. And not only do we say it, but we say it boldly.

The Israelites were led by God through the wilderness to the promised destination: to enter God’s rest. But most of them did not make it. Their carcasses fell because of unbelief and disobedience. The experiences of Israel are set as a pattern for us—to maintain diligence in seeking to hear and obey the voice of God.

During this week and the two following weeks, Derek uncovers twelve “Let us” statements out of the book of Hebrews. The first of these, “Let us fear,” might be considered a startling one. But the reason for it is connected to the fact that this book was written to the Jewish believers. Listen as Derek brings forth those points.

Hebrew believers had a different background than other New Testament believers. The epistle to the Hebrews is specifically and primarily addressed to believers from a Jewish background. That background gave them many advantages and many special privileges, which were not enjoyed by the Gentiles or the pagans from other nations and backgrounds. Listen today as Derek brings this to light.

The beginning of the New Year brings a desire to change—it’s a kind of new start. But let’s not make changes that only last through the first week. Let us resolve to make lasting changes. Remember that resolutions determine attitudes; attitudes determine approach and approach determines the outcome.

Today Derek finishes this study on the topic of love by using the active definition and command Jesus gave to His disciples. “Love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.” By this we know that we are to prefer others before ourselves. This is love taking on flesh.

Today Derek examines the character of love—how it behaves in everyday life. Looking at the verses in 1 Corinthians 13, “the love chapter,” we find how love behaves—what it does and does not do. Love is not insecure, so it does not make a display of itself. It is infinitely strong and can stand any pressure, face any situation. Love can meet any challenge, and love never gives up.

Reading from 1 Corinthians 13, Derek comments on the importance of love. Without love we are nothing. Regardless of all of our giftings, no matter what we do, if it is not borne out of love it will not accomplish the fullness of what it was meant to do. All we do must be done in faith to empower the action of love.

Today we examine the perfect law of liberty, the law of love. The entire Law is wrapped up in these: If we love God and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. If we will put these two commands into practice, we will not break any law. The end purpose of the New Testament is precisely the same as the Old, but it takes the love of God in Christ to fulfill it.