Key Thought: Our faith in God is shown by our care for others. We need each other, and by encouraging others, we strengthen our own relationships with God.

[Teaching plan for Exhortation From the Sanctuary December 30, 2013]

1. Have a volunteer read Hebrews 4:14-16.

a. Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
b. What does it mean for us to have full access to God? Why does it say we can come boldly to the throne of grace?
c. Personal Application: What is the difference between having full assurance of faith and having a presumptuous attitude? Share your thoughts.
d. Case Study: One of your relatives states: “Why does it tell us to draw near to God? I thought He dwelt in us and was with us always. If that is true, why or how should we draw near to Him?” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read Hebrews 10:21-23..

a. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
b. What are the conditions for approaching God that Paul mentions in these verses?
c. Personal Application: What things challenge your full assurance or confidence in God? What can you do to protect yourself from losing that confidence? Share your thoughts.
d. Case Study: One of your friends states, “I have to be honest. I keep praying and asking for forgiveness and the power to overcome my sins; but it seems like I keep failing. How can I believe I can overcome, yet not get discouraged and give up when I don’t?” How would you respond to your friend?

3. Have a volunteer read Hebrews 10:24-25.

a. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point is in this passage.
b. How can we help people experience and grow in a relationship with God?
c. Personal Application: Is there anyone in the church specifically that you want to encourage with your words, deeds, or your presence? What can you do to make that a reality? Share your thoughts.
d. Case Study: One of your neighbors states, “What benefits do you get from going to church and fellowshipping with your church members? What would you miss if you didn’t attend church?” How would you respond to your neighbor?

4. Have a volunteer read I Timothy 3:15.

a. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the main idea of this text is.
b. What does our behavior in the church reflect about our relationship with God and our influence on our fellow Christians?
b. Personal Application: What behaviors or actions do you see in the church that are detrimental to a wholesome, happy, and reverent service on Sabbath morning? Share your thoughts.
c. Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.

(Note : “Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.” MH p. 149.

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