This year, our Bible study will take us through the powerful and hope-filled book of Hebrews. Each month on the 2nd Friday, we’ll discover how its timeless truths strengthen our faith, anchor our hearts, and help us run our race with victory in Christ.
January Introduction
There’s something beautiful about beginning a new year by fixing our eyes on Jesus. Before we take a single step into the months ahead — before the routines settle in, before pressures rise, before plans unfold — Hebrews invites us to start from a place of clarity.
Victory doesn’t begin with effort.
Victory begins with beholding Him.
In Hebrews 1–2, we meet Jesus as both radiant King and faithful Brother — fully God and fully human, supreme and near, powerful and compassionate. These chapters lay the foundation for the entire race we will run this year.
Who Jesus Is: The Radiance of God (Hebrews 1)
Hebrews opens with a breathtaking declaration:
“He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature…” (Heb. 1:3)
Jesus is not just a helper or teacher — He is the exact representation of God Himself.
Hebrews 1 reveals the Sevenfold Excellencies of God’s Son — a portrait of His majesty unlike anything else in Scripture:
1. The Established Heir — “whom He appointed heir of all things”
2. The Creator — “through whom He also made the worlds”
3. The Radiance of God’s Glory — the shining forth of God’s very nature
4. The Express Image of His Person — the exact imprint of God’s being
5. The Upholder of All Things — sustaining the universe by His powerful word
6. The Purger of Sins — cleansing us completely through His sacrifice
7. The Seated One — enthroned at the right hand of the Majesty on high
This is the Jesus who calls you into this new year. This is the Jesus who runs the race with you.
Before we take one step, Hebrews reminds us: Your confidence is rooted in the greatness of Christ.
Who Jesus Became: Our Faithful Brother (Hebrews 2:1–18)
If Hebrews 1 shows us the majesty of Christ, Hebrews 2 shows us His mercy. After lifting our eyes to His glory, the chapter turns our attention to His incredible nearness and His work on our behalf.
1. Jesus Is Greater Than the Angels (2:1–4)
Because Jesus is superior to angels, the message He brings is even more binding and precious. “We must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away.” (2:1)
2. Jesus Is Bringing Many Sons and Daughters to Glory (2:5–13)
He didn’t merely rescue us — He is leading us into glory. He calls us brothers and sisters and stands with us, never ashamed, never distant.
3. Jesus Destroyed the Power of Death (2:14–15)
He destroyed “the one who has the power of death — that is, the devil,” and freed us from lifelong slavery to fear. Victory is not just a future hope — it is present freedom.
4. Jesus Helps Us in Temptation (2:16–18)
Because He suffered and was tempted, “He is able to help those who are being tempted.” He doesn’t step back from our weakness — He steps into it with mercy and faithfulness.
RHW Victory Lens
Victory Comes from Seeing Him Clearly
When you see Jesus as He truly is…
– Your fears shrink
– Your identity strengthens
– Your anxiety loosens
– Your striving quiets
– Your steps become steady
Victory is not something you earn. It’s something you receive — and walk in — because Jesus is both:
– Mighty to rule (Heb. 1)
– Mighty to help (Heb. 2)
This is the confidence that carries you into the new year:
You run your race with the King who runs beside you.
Reflection Questions
– Where do I need to see Jesus bigger in my life?
– What fear loses power when I look at Him?
– How does it comfort me to know Jesus is not ashamed of me?
– Where do I need His help today?
Closing Prayer
Jesus, thank You for beginning this new year with me. Help me see Your greatness clearly and Your nearness deeply. Where I am weak, be my strength. Where I am afraid, be my peace. Where I feel unsteady, be my anchor. Thank You for being both my King and my Brother. Teach me to run this race with confidence — because You are with me. Amen.
