Beware of Your Unbelief

Even Christians can be people of unbelief. Given tempting circumstances, we might cave under pressure and cease to follow God wholeheartedly. This certainly was the case with the children of Israel who took a major detour of unbelief while on their journey to the land promised to them by God. Similarly, there is an inheritance that awaits the faithful Christian. God refers to this inheritance as rest, and it’s not the same as going to heaven. Our salvation is secure. But in this second of five warnings in Hebrews, we discover that unbelief can sabotage the future inheritance that could be ours.

Some are quick to suggest that even Christians might lose their salvation. Revisit the following references that remind us that once received, salvation can never be lost: John 3:16, 5:24, 6:40, 10:28, Romans 4:5, 11:29.

The second warning in Hebrews is covered in chapters 3 and 4. Read Hebrews 3:7-19 (compare Numbers 14 and Psalm 95). What happened with the Israelites as they headed to the Promised Land?

The land promised by God was to be entered and inherited only through obedience. The disobedient Israelites were redeemed but still forfeited their inheritance of the land (Exodus 14:31 and 15:13). How would you describe the difference between a person who is a Christian and a person who is a Christian and obediently growing in the faith?

Revisit Hebrews 3:12-15. How do you know the writer is addressing Christians? How might a Christian “depart from the living God?” What is the role of fellow believers in our battle against unbelief (3:13)? Who is a partaker (companion or one who shares? (3:14)

Consider that in Hebrews, “rest” is not a reference to heaven but a reward given to obedient Christians. Read the following verses with that idea in mind and highlight any insights that come to mind: Hebrews 4:1-11.

In what ways are you tempted toward unbelief and departing from God? How do you find your way back when you begin to lose your grip on God?