With this passage the author of Hebrews gives a severe warning regarding those who have seen all of the evidences for God within Christian fellowship, yet who reject Him. Keep this context in mind as you discuss the questions.

1. Explain what context is and why it’s essential to faithful Bible study.

2. What Old Testament example does the author of Hebrews continually refer to in his letter? Why does he use this example?

3. Why was the rebellion of the Exodus-era Israelites so especially offensive to God? What was God’s response to their evil, unbelieving hearts?

4. The Bible frequently uses the imagery of bearing fruit. In what sense is this imagery used, and what importance does the Bible place on bearing fruit? (See Matt. 3:10; 12:33; Jn. 15:1-8)

5. Verse 8 speaks of those who have been “rained on” bearing thorns and thistles. What does this mean? What is their end?

6. What are practical signs in professing believers’ lives of either fruit or thorns?