Week 1

Look Back

What did you learn this week about the impact of your thoughts, words and actions? Did you identify any situations where you were deceiving yourself, and need to change and seek forgiveness?

Look Up

Read Hebrews 5:1-5

1. According to these verses, what is the role and the responsibilities of the Jewish high priest? How does this compare with your perception of a high priest?
2. What are some of the reasons given in these verses that explain “why” the people needed a high priest? Do you think people today need a high priest?
3. Why do you think the high priest was required to offer sacrifices for his own sin? How do you think this might impact his effectiveness as a priest?
4. What do these verses say about how Jesus became a high priest? How easy is this for you to understand and accept?

Read Hebrews 7:22-28 and 1 Peter 2:9-12

1. What are some of the ways the author of Hebrews says that Jesus’ priesthood is “better” in verses 22-25? Which of these is most meaningful to you?
2. What do verses 26-28 say are some ways Jesus is “different” from the other high priests? What does this tell you about God and people?
3. How is Peter’s description of the role and responsibilities of the people as priests similar or different from what is said about Jesus and other priests in Hebrews?
4. Who do you think Peter was writing to and what message was he trying to send? How does this apply to people today?

Overall (Discovery Bible Study)

• What do these scriptures say about God?
• What do they say about people?
• How will I apply this to my life?

Look Ahead

Peter recognizes that every person battles against the power of sin in their life and challenges us to live lives that glorify God and positively impact others around us. Freedom from the power of sin can only be found in Jesus Christ - what steps will you take to find and share this freedom with others? Group

Notes

The author of Hebrews and Peter redefined what it meant to be a “priest”. No longer is it simply a position of honor given to a select few, but a responsibility of all who follow Jesus Christ. Encourage group members to share how they feel about this.