Returning to the 4th chapter of the Letter to the Hebrews, we come to a warning and reminder that our true motives cannot be hidden from God. This is because the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword. It is even able to discern our secret thoughts and intentions. Further, nothing is hidden from our God. This is a warning of impending danger for all of us as sinners before a holy and righteous God- it is also a reminder of our need of grace...a grace offered in Christ Jesus.

As we continue through Hebrews Chapter 5, we see that the incarnation was essential if Christ is to be our High Priest. It is because He came and suffered that He can minister on our behalf, having experienced our trials and weaknesses, yet never sinning. This text teaches us that the incarnation was absolutely necessary to our having a perfect High Priest. Praise the Lord for His mercy and grace!

As we begin a new year, we see a command to redeem the time because the days are evil. Seeing that the local church is given a great mission by our Master, we must be a people who are -buying back the present opportunity-. May God impress upon our hearts the importance of this instruction from His Word.

Returning to Hebrews 4, the author tells us to be diligent to enter that rest, meaning the rest of God. What does he mean-- How do we diligently enter rest-- The answer is that we can only do it by faith...and faith in Christ.

Returning to Hebrews 5 and the perfect priesthood of Christ, we will focus on the necessary qualification of Christ's appointment as High Priest. The author of Hebrews, inspired by the Holy Spirit, refers back to Psalm 110 in order to demonstrate the appointment of Christ.

As we enter the 5th chapter of the Letter to the Hebrews, we start by looking at the High Priesthood of Christ. Immediately, the author speaks of the qualifications that must be met for any legitimate High Priest; all of these qualifications were fully met by Jesus, who was appointed to His office by our heavenly Father.

As we continue through the Letter to the Hebrews, we see that Joshua was not able to secure rest for the people of God. He did, however, point forward to a greater Savior who would lead His people into rest-

Coming to the Lord's Table, we will consider the words of the Apostle Paul in I Corinthians chapter 11. We will also consider the need for the people of God to offer thanksgiving to God.

Journeying into Hebrews 4, we find the important reminder of an available promise of entering rest. That promise, first spoken of in the days of Moses, mentioned again in David, and again in Hebrews, is held out for the true people of God. Of course, that promise also carries a warning for those who die outside of it through unbelief.

Continuing through the fourth chapter of Hebrews, we see one of the great truths that the author of Hebrews is teaching us: our High Priest is ever ministering in the presence of the Father. What a glorious advantage over the Levitical priesthood! Therefore, we are called to come boldly, or with confidence, to the throne of grace in our hour of need, knowing that Christ stands ready to help His people.