Heb 6:13-20 | Our Sure & Steadfast Hope
The Fragility of Modern Hope
We’ve all been there: at the edge of the water, meticulously building a sandcastle. We build the towers, dig the moat, and watch as it takes shape. But no matter how much we work on it, the waves eventually come. Sandcastles are fragile; they aren’t meant to last.
In our latest sermon on Hebrews 6:13–20, we explored how many of us build our lives on "sandcastle hopes." We hope in our financial planning, our career paths, or our ability to distract ourselves from pain. These things offer temporary peace, but when the waves of a bad economy, a layoff, or a broken relationship hit, they crumble.
The Anchor for the Soul
The author of Hebrews offers us a different metaphor: an anchor. > "We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain." (Hebrews 6:19)
This isn't a "cross your fingers" type of hope. It is a sure and steadfast reality. Why? Because of who is behind the promise.
Two Unchangeable Realities
Pastor Cam highlighted that God gave us two "unchangeable things" to hold onto:
His Promise: God made a covenant with Abraham to bless all nations.
His Oath: God swore by Himself to fulfill that promise.
God didn't swear an oath because He has trouble telling the truth; He did it because we have trouble believing it. In His grace, He goes above and beyond to tenderly encourage our doubting hearts. He puts His very reputation on the line so that we might have "strong encouragement."
The Forerunner: Jesus Behind the Curtain
In the Old Testament temple, there was a "curtain" that separated sinful people from the holy presence of God. Only the High Priest could enter once a year. But Hebrews tells us that Jesus has entered that inner place as a forerunner.
A forerunner is someone who goes ahead to make the way safe for others. Because Jesus was sacrificed in our place, the "exile" is over. Our anchor is not hooked into the shifting sands of this world; it is hooked into the very presence of God.
Holding Fast Today
If you find your faith feeling fickle, remember: God is unchanging. He doesn't have good days and bad days. He never lies.
How to press into this hope this week:
Rehearse His Faithfulness: Make a list of God’s goodness in your life. Don't let the "waves" make you forget the "anchor."
Immerse in the Word: The Bible contains the mind of God and the way of salvation. It is the "pilot's compass" for the storm.