'A Sacrifice Of Praise'


The letter to the Hebrews concludes with exhortations centred around the image of sacrifice. In the earlier chapters, the author has explained how the cross of Jesus fulfils the laws about sacrifice on the Day of Atonement. Now the letter develops this theme further. The actions of believers who follow in the footsteps of Jesus are a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. In pursuing a lifestyle of holiness and faithfulness, believers manifest the community of promise which Jesus created when he died 'outside the city gate'.

Main points:

  1. The sacrifice of Jesus - a sacrifice to cleanse sin
  2. The sacrifices of believers - a sacrifice of praise
  3. The community outside the city gate - a community of promise

Questions for reflection:

  1. How thinking about my actions as examples of a 'sacrifice of praise' makes a difference to the way I serve God in everyday life?
  2. What can I learn from Hebrews 13 about hospitality and money?
  3. How can I express my solidarity with believers who suffer?