Summary

This Bible Study explores the profound truth that believers are destined to become like Jesus Christ, not just in having resurrected bodies, but in elevated status within God's divine family. The pastor examines Hebrews 1-2 through the lens of divine council theology, explaining how Jesus, as both God and man, became our brother to bring many sons and daughters into glory. The message emphasizes that humans were created to rule over creation, not angels, and that through Christ's incarnation, death, and resurrection, believers are adopted into God's family and will one day judge angels. The concept of theosis - becoming like Christ - is explored through various New Testament passages that describe our transformation into His likeness and our participation in the divine nature.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, amazed by Your incredible plan to make us Your children through Jesus Christ. As we gather today to discuss Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to understand the magnificent truth of what it means to be part of Your divine family. Help us to be receptive to what You want to teach us through this time together, and may Your Spirit guide our conversation. We pray that You would reveal to each of us personally what You desire us to learn and apply from today's discussion. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

If you could have a conversation with any historical figure, who would it be and what would you ask them?

Key Verses

  1. Hebrews 1:1-4
  2. Hebrews 2:5-8
  3. Hebrews 2:10-12
  4. 1 John 3:2
  5. Romans 8:29
  6. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18
  7. 2 Peter 1:3-4
  8. 1 Corinthians 15:49-53
  9. 1 Corinthians 6:3

Questions

  1. What does it mean to you personally that Jesus is 'not ashamed to call us brothers and sisters'?
  2. How does understanding that we are made 'a little lower than God' rather than 'a little lower than angels' change your perspective on your identity as a believer?
  3. The sermon mentions that we will judge angels. How does this truth impact how you view your current circumstances and challenges?
  4. What are some practical ways we can live now in light of the truth that we are being 'conformed to the image of Christ'?
  5. How does knowing that Jesus will present us to the divine council as His family members affect your relationship with Him?
  6. The concept of 'theosis' or becoming like Christ can be difficult to grasp. What aspects of this teaching encourage you most?
  7. How should the truth that 'flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God' influence our priorities and daily decisions?
  8. In what ways does understanding our future glorified state help us deal with current suffering or difficulties?

Life Application

This week, spend time each day reflecting on your identity as a child of God who is being transformed into Christ's likeness. Choose one specific area of your life where you want to see more of Christ's character displayed, and intentionally ask the Holy Spirit to work in that area. Additionally, when you face challenges or feel discouraged, remind yourself of the incredible truth that you are destined to rule and reign with Christ and that He is not ashamed to call you His brother or sister.

Key Takeaways

  1. Believers are not just saved from sin but are adopted into God's divine family with elevated status above angels
  2. Jesus became human so that we might become like Him - this transformation involves both our resurrected bodies and our elevated position
  3. We are destined to judge angels and rule in the new heaven and new earth alongside Christ
  4. The process of becoming like Christ (theosis) is happening now through the Holy Spirit's work in our lives
  5. Our future glorified state should impact how we live today, giving us hope and proper perspective on current struggles