The New and Living Way, Hebrews 10:19-23In this passage the author of the book of Hebrews begins to pivot toward the "so what" of everything he's been teaching in the letter thus far. He addresses the question: "Since all these things about the Lord Jesus are true, how should we then live?" Keep this context in mind as you discuss these questions.

1. This passage begins with the word "Therefore." What has this letter taught its readers up to this point?

2. What are the "holy places"? (In this context the author is referring specifically to the "Holy of Holies" [see 9:1-14], but what is that and what is its significance?)

3. What are the conditions for entering the holy places (see Lev. 16)? Who can go in? Why can't anyone go in?

4. What's changed? How can we "have confidence to enter the holy places"?

5. What is "the new and living way"? "New and living" as opposed to what?

6. What was the significance of the curtain which barred the way to the Holy of Holies? Why was it torn, when was it torn, how was it torn, and who tore it? And "so what" that it was torn?

7. Why and how should we "draw near" to God? (How, as in, in practice.)

8. Discuss verse 23. What does it call Christians to do? What does it mean? What reason does it give for calling us to "hold fast"?