So I'm going to read Hebrews chapter 13, verses 7 to 19. John's going to preach on it, but I want to ask us that as we read this, we remember, this is the revered word of God. Our faith is ancient. This is not some cool suggestions about how you and I might live if we're into the whole Christian thing. This is a faith that's anchored and rooted in what's true. This is the

authority over our lives. And so let's read it together today and let's conform our lives to the

truth that has been gifted to us. Hebrews chapter 13, verses 7 to 19 says, remember your leaders who spoke

the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life

and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be carried

away by all kinds of strange teachings. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace,

not by eating ceremonial foods, which is of no benefit to those who do so.

We have an altar from which those who minister at the tabernacle have no right to eat.

The high priest carries the blood of animals into the most holy place as a sin offering, but the bodies are burned outside the camp.

And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood. Let us then go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise,

the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.

And do not forget to do good and to share with others,

for with such sacrifices, God is pleased. Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account.

Do this so that their work will be a joy and not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience

and desire to live honorably in every way. I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be

restored to you soon. This is the word of the Lord. You may be seated.

It is a great honor to be back with you, and I will just say, if there's any place other than my house to spend my 50th birthday, it is in the south of the United States.

Hospitality down here is pretty epic, so I just want to say thank you.

I'm going to take two seconds. I'm going to pray. I'd love you to pray with me that we would remain open to God's word.

So very simply, Lord, Father and Son, send the Holy Spirit into every room listening to this,

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