Introduction

• Hebrews 12:4-11

Is Hebrews 12 saying that when we sin, God punishes us immediately on earth?

• Numbers 12:10 - Miriam was punished for sin.
• Acts 12:23
• Job 1:8-12 - Job was not punished due to sin.
• John 9:1-3 - The blind man was not punished for sin.
• II Timothy 3:12 - Persecution doesn’t imply sin. It might mean the opposite!

What is the discipline of Hebrews 12?

• Hebrews 13:22
• It could be talking about the letter itself.
• The discipline itself may also include the trials of life that God allows.
• Deuteronomy 8:2-5 - God disciplined the Israelites in the wilderness.
• Job 42:11
• Hebrews 10:32-39
• Hebrews 11:32-38
• Hebrews 12:1-2 - Endure!
• God was not punishing them. He was allowing them to endure hardships that would mature their faith.
• Acts 14:21-22

What are the benefits of enduring hardships in this life?

It builds character.

• Hebrews 12:10
• James 1:2-4
• I Peter 1:6-9
• I Peter 4:12
• Romans 5:3-5
• God will not just make our lives smooth.

It develops my sympathy and service for others.

• Hebrews 10:32-34
• Hebrews 4:15

It makes me look forward to Heaven.

• Hebrews 10:34
• Hebrews 11:10-16
• If my hope is tied up in this world, I will be crushed.