Just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do...
1 Peter 1:15-16
Welcome to CALLED Men’s Group! If you're looking to move forward in your faith, then this is the place for you! We are a group of men, called by God to understand who He is, who we are, and what we are CALLED to do for Him! We study the Bible & discuss together, find projects where we can give back, and encourage each other in spiritual growth!
HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF CALLED:
- Bring a notebook and Bible along with you.
- Do the assignments. (These are not required to come to group, but you will get so much more out of it, if you study and put some work in through the week!)
- Be consistent. (You can come and go week-to-week as you please, but you will get the MOST out of CALLED if you are there every week that you possibly can be!)
- Be intentional about making friends. (Stick around afterward, show up early, strike up conversations. Make some friends that can walk alongside you in this journey of faith!)
Meeting# 1 of 8 | This Week’s Leader: David Goodno
INTRODUCTION: Welcome everyone, this is the first meeting of Spring 2026 Semester for the Called Men’s Growth
Group. This semester we meet every Wed. at 7:00 – 8:30, for eight weeks, through June 24, 2026.
This semester, our SOAP study* is on the book of Hebrews. (*SOAP study: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
and Questions.) Reminder: there is no specific prerequisites or formal “membership” required to attend. The purpose
of tonight is to come together, read and study God’s word, develop an understanding, grow in our faith and have a
friendly discussion. Please keep in mind that we are all in different places of our faith journey; we all come from
various backgrounds, have different points of view. It does not matter if you’ve been a believer for 10 seconds, 10-
years, or your entire lifetime; everyone is welcome; everyone has value; everyone has a voice. If there are different
points of view, we should not feel attacked or be hostile to one another; it is our different points of view that add to
the discussion. We came together tonight as friends and brothers in Christ. And we should leave the same (as friends
and brothers in Christ). And often there is no right or wrong answer; just interpretation of scripture and even Biblical
scholars don’t always agree; ultimately, JESUS IS THE ANSWER. /// Have all in the room introduce themselves. ///
BACKGROUND, HISTORY AND AUDIENCE:
The book of Hebrews is often called a masterpiece of New Testament theology. It is less like a standard letter and more
like a transcript or notes for a powerful sermon. The author dives straight into the deep end of theology without the
typical introductory greetings of a letter or identification of the author.
1. The Mystery of Authorship
For centuries, the church debated who wrote Hebrews. While the King James Version traditionally attributed it to Paul,
most modern scholars agree that the writing style, vocabulary, and theological focus differ significantly from Paul’s
known letters (like Romans or Galatians).
For more information regarding the author of Hebrews see: https://www.gotquestions.org/author-Hebrews.html
Suggested authors include Barnabas, Apollos (known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Old Testament),
Luke, or even Priscilla.
Ultimately, even though today, the author remains unknown and anonymous.
2. Date and Audience
The Date: Biblical scholars believe the book was written before AD 70. The author speaks of the Jewish
sacrificial system and Temple rituals in the present tense. If the Romans had already destroyed the Temple
(which happened in AD 70), the author almost certainly would have mentioned it to prove that the old system
had ended.
The Audience: The NLT translation does not include a heading, but some Bible translations do include a title
"To the Hebrews" which was added to the text, but it accurately reflects the target: Jewish Christians.
These believers were facing intense persecution. Under pressure, many were tempted to abandon their
faith in Christ and return to the "safety" of traditional Judaism and the Mosaic Law, in order to avoid Roman
and Jewish hostility.
KEY THEMES, HISTORICAL IMPACT AND PURPOSE OF THE BOOK:
3. The Core Message: "Jesus is Better"
The book of Hebrews is a sustained argument for the supremacy of Jesus Christ. The author systematically proves that
Jesus is greater than every pillar of the Jewish faith:
Greater than Angels: Jesus is the divine Son of God.
Greater than Moses: Moses was a servant in God's house; Jesus is the Son of God, over the house.
Greater than the Priesthood: Jesus is our High Priest after the order of Melchizedek.
Greater than the Old Covenant: Jesus offers us a better promise than the old covenant and was THE FINAL
sacrifice – which ended the Jewish sacrificial system to atone for sins and salvation. Jesus served as the final
and perfect sacrifice for sin once and for all. Jesus’ sacrifice, replaced the need for repeated animal sacrifices
and established a new covenant that offers complete forgiveness and atonement for salvation. While the
theological end occurred with Jesus’ death, the actual Jewish end of animal sacrifices took place with the
destruction of the Jewish temple in 70 AD, which some Christians view as divine confirmation of the new
covenant.
4. Historical Impact: The "Hall of Faith"
One of the most famous historical summaries in the Bible is found in Hebrews 11. The author recounts the history of
Israel—from Abel and Abraham to Moses and Rahab—to show that faith has always been the requirement for pleasing
God.
5. Purpose of the Book
The history of Hebrews is rooted in exhortation; that is an earnest appeal, urge, or encouraging advice aimed at
persuading someone to take action or follow a specific course of conduct. The author uses five "warning passages" to
tell the readers: Do not drift away. Because Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God, turning back to the old shadows is
not just a mistake—it is a spiritual disaster.
The book concludes with a call to run with endurance, looking past the immediate suffering toward the city that is to
come.
PRAYER: This Week’s Prayer: Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together tonight and study your
word. Thank you for revealing yourself to us through Jesus, we thank you for Jesus not only to show us who You are;
but to also identify and sympathize with us and the struggles we endure. Help us to listen to Your voice, help us to
understand that you are always with us, and that when You speak to us that we faithfully obey.
In Jesus’ name – Amen
Scripture - Read: Hebrews Chapters 1 & 2 (32 Verses)
Observation, Application & Questions: (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)
Key verses and topics for discussion, Hebrews Chapters 1 & 2:
1. The Final Word (Hebrews 1:1–2)
The text says that while God spoke through prophets in the past, He has now spoken "through his Son." In a world
full of "experts," influencers, and competing voices, what does it look like for us to treat Jesus as the final authority
in our lives?
2. The Sustainer (Hebrews 1:3)
The text says Jesus "sustains everything by the mighty power of his command." When you look at the stresses of
your week—whether it’s work, family, or health—does it feel like you are the one holding it all together, or do you
actually trust that He is? How would your stress level change if you truly believed He was sustaining "everything"?
3. Spiritual Distractions (Hebrews 1:4–14)
The author spends a lot of time proving Jesus is greater than angels. Today, we might not struggle with "angel
worship," but we often elevate other good things (career, reputation, money, family, kids) to a level of ultimate
importance. What "good things" in your life are most likely to compete with Jesus as our top priority?
4. The Danger of Drifting (Hebrews 2:1)
"So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it." Drifting usually
happens without us noticing—like a boat at sea. For a man in today’s culture, what are the subtle "currents" that
cause us to slowly drift away from our faith and our families? How do we correct and realign our course?
5. The Purpose of Humanity (Hebrews 2:5–8)
The author quotes a Psalm asking, "What are mere mortals that you should think about them?" The author notes
that God gave us "glory and honor" and put us in charge of everything, yet we don't see that perfection yet. How
does it change your sense of purpose to know that God intended for humans to rule alongside Him?
6. The Pioneer of Salvation (Hebrews 2:10)
The NLT calls Jesus the "pioneer" of our salvation, made perfect through suffering. A pioneer blazes a trail so
others can follow. In what area of your life is Jesus calling you to follow His "trail" of suffering or sacrifice right
now?
7. A Priest Who Understands (Hebrews 2:17–18)
The chapter ends by saying that because Jesus was "tested," He is able to help us when we are being tested. Does
it change your prayer life to know that Jesus isn't just watching you from a distance, but has actually felt the same
types of pressure and temptation you feel today?
-----------------
Supporting Scripture to review: -
(Q2) Colossians 1:15–20 [This reinforces the idea that Jesus isn't just a historical figure who "started"
things; He is the active force preventing the universe (and our lives) from falling into chaos right now.]
(Q4) 2 Peter 1:3-12 [There is danger of drifting, therefore it is important we study the word because
we are prone to forget. It’s the "spiritual maintenance" required to keep us aligned and stop the drift.]
(Q5) Genesis 1:26-28 [Hebrews 2 quotes Psalm 8, which is a reflection on this moment in Genesis. This
helps us see the "Original Mandate"—that God designed us to be responsible leaders and stewards, a
role Jesus is now perfectly fulfilling.]
(Q6) Matthew 16:21-28 [This verse turns the theology of Hebrews into a call to action.]
Other questions to explore:
What was the context? What was going on at the time this was written?
What and where is this happening?
o What makes what was happening meaningful?
o Is there anything special about the location (or locations)?
Who is involved?
o How do they respond to God?
o What character traits do you notice about them?
o What is the significance of their involvement?
What do you think is the key message?
Did anything that surprised or stood out to you? What was it? Share with the group and discuss.
Are there any key verses that stand out to you? Discuss among the group.
Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you? What were they?
---
Is there anything that left you with more questions? What were they? Share with group, discuss, and
research.
Biggest takeaway?
Group. This semester we meet every Wed. at 7:00 – 8:30, for eight weeks, through June 24, 2026.
This semester, our SOAP study* is on the book of Hebrews. (*SOAP study: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
and Questions.) Reminder: there is no specific prerequisites or formal “membership” required to attend. The purpose
of tonight is to come together, read and study God’s word, develop an understanding, grow in our faith and have a
friendly discussion. Please keep in mind that we are all in different places of our faith journey; we all come from
various backgrounds, have different points of view. It does not matter if you’ve been a believer for 10 seconds, 10-
years, or your entire lifetime; everyone is welcome; everyone has value; everyone has a voice. If there are different
points of view, we should not feel attacked or be hostile to one another; it is our different points of view that add to
the discussion. We came together tonight as friends and brothers in Christ. And we should leave the same (as friends
and brothers in Christ). And often there is no right or wrong answer; just interpretation of scripture and even Biblical
scholars don’t always agree; ultimately, JESUS IS THE ANSWER. /// Have all in the room introduce themselves. ///
BACKGROUND, HISTORY AND AUDIENCE:
The book of Hebrews is often called a masterpiece of New Testament theology. It is less like a standard letter and more
like a transcript or notes for a powerful sermon. The author dives straight into the deep end of theology without the
typical introductory greetings of a letter or identification of the author.
1. The Mystery of Authorship
For centuries, the church debated who wrote Hebrews. While the King James Version traditionally attributed it to Paul,
most modern scholars agree that the writing style, vocabulary, and theological focus differ significantly from Paul’s
known letters (like Romans or Galatians).
For more information regarding the author of Hebrews see: https://www.gotquestions.org/author-Hebrews.html
Suggested authors include Barnabas, Apollos (known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Old Testament),
Luke, or even Priscilla.
Ultimately, even though today, the author remains unknown and anonymous.
2. Date and Audience
The Date: Biblical scholars believe the book was written before AD 70. The author speaks of the Jewish
sacrificial system and Temple rituals in the present tense. If the Romans had already destroyed the Temple
(which happened in AD 70), the author almost certainly would have mentioned it to prove that the old system
had ended.
The Audience: The NLT translation does not include a heading, but some Bible translations do include a title
"To the Hebrews" which was added to the text, but it accurately reflects the target: Jewish Christians.
These believers were facing intense persecution. Under pressure, many were tempted to abandon their
faith in Christ and return to the "safety" of traditional Judaism and the Mosaic Law, in order to avoid Roman
and Jewish hostility.
KEY THEMES, HISTORICAL IMPACT AND PURPOSE OF THE BOOK:
3. The Core Message: "Jesus is Better"
The book of Hebrews is a sustained argument for the supremacy of Jesus Christ. The author systematically proves that
Jesus is greater than every pillar of the Jewish faith:
Greater than Angels: Jesus is the divine Son of God.
Greater than Moses: Moses was a servant in God's house; Jesus is the Son of God, over the house.
Greater than the Priesthood: Jesus is our High Priest after the order of Melchizedek.
Greater than the Old Covenant: Jesus offers us a better promise than the old covenant and was THE FINAL
sacrifice – which ended the Jewish sacrificial system to atone for sins and salvation. Jesus served as the final
and perfect sacrifice for sin once and for all. Jesus’ sacrifice, replaced the need for repeated animal sacrifices
and established a new covenant that offers complete forgiveness and atonement for salvation. While the
theological end occurred with Jesus’ death, the actual Jewish end of animal sacrifices took place with the
destruction of the Jewish temple in 70 AD, which some Christians view as divine confirmation of the new
covenant.
4. Historical Impact: The "Hall of Faith"
One of the most famous historical summaries in the Bible is found in Hebrews 11. The author recounts the history of
Israel—from Abel and Abraham to Moses and Rahab—to show that faith has always been the requirement for pleasing
God.
5. Purpose of the Book
The history of Hebrews is rooted in exhortation; that is an earnest appeal, urge, or encouraging advice aimed at
persuading someone to take action or follow a specific course of conduct. The author uses five "warning passages" to
tell the readers: Do not drift away. Because Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God, turning back to the old shadows is
not just a mistake—it is a spiritual disaster.
The book concludes with a call to run with endurance, looking past the immediate suffering toward the city that is to
come.
PRAYER: This Week’s Prayer: Father God, we thank you for allowing us to come together tonight and study your
word. Thank you for revealing yourself to us through Jesus, we thank you for Jesus not only to show us who You are;
but to also identify and sympathize with us and the struggles we endure. Help us to listen to Your voice, help us to
understand that you are always with us, and that when You speak to us that we faithfully obey.
In Jesus’ name – Amen
Scripture - Read: Hebrews Chapters 1 & 2 (32 Verses)
Observation, Application & Questions: (Identify/Discuss Among the Group)
Key verses and topics for discussion, Hebrews Chapters 1 & 2:
1. The Final Word (Hebrews 1:1–2)
The text says that while God spoke through prophets in the past, He has now spoken "through his Son." In a world
full of "experts," influencers, and competing voices, what does it look like for us to treat Jesus as the final authority
in our lives?
2. The Sustainer (Hebrews 1:3)
The text says Jesus "sustains everything by the mighty power of his command." When you look at the stresses of
your week—whether it’s work, family, or health—does it feel like you are the one holding it all together, or do you
actually trust that He is? How would your stress level change if you truly believed He was sustaining "everything"?
3. Spiritual Distractions (Hebrews 1:4–14)
The author spends a lot of time proving Jesus is greater than angels. Today, we might not struggle with "angel
worship," but we often elevate other good things (career, reputation, money, family, kids) to a level of ultimate
importance. What "good things" in your life are most likely to compete with Jesus as our top priority?
4. The Danger of Drifting (Hebrews 2:1)
"So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it." Drifting usually
happens without us noticing—like a boat at sea. For a man in today’s culture, what are the subtle "currents" that
cause us to slowly drift away from our faith and our families? How do we correct and realign our course?
5. The Purpose of Humanity (Hebrews 2:5–8)
The author quotes a Psalm asking, "What are mere mortals that you should think about them?" The author notes
that God gave us "glory and honor" and put us in charge of everything, yet we don't see that perfection yet. How
does it change your sense of purpose to know that God intended for humans to rule alongside Him?
6. The Pioneer of Salvation (Hebrews 2:10)
The NLT calls Jesus the "pioneer" of our salvation, made perfect through suffering. A pioneer blazes a trail so
others can follow. In what area of your life is Jesus calling you to follow His "trail" of suffering or sacrifice right
now?
7. A Priest Who Understands (Hebrews 2:17–18)
The chapter ends by saying that because Jesus was "tested," He is able to help us when we are being tested. Does
it change your prayer life to know that Jesus isn't just watching you from a distance, but has actually felt the same
types of pressure and temptation you feel today?
-----------------
Supporting Scripture to review: -
(Q2) Colossians 1:15–20 [This reinforces the idea that Jesus isn't just a historical figure who "started"
things; He is the active force preventing the universe (and our lives) from falling into chaos right now.]
(Q4) 2 Peter 1:3-12 [There is danger of drifting, therefore it is important we study the word because
we are prone to forget. It’s the "spiritual maintenance" required to keep us aligned and stop the drift.]
(Q5) Genesis 1:26-28 [Hebrews 2 quotes Psalm 8, which is a reflection on this moment in Genesis. This
helps us see the "Original Mandate"—that God designed us to be responsible leaders and stewards, a
role Jesus is now perfectly fulfilling.]
(Q6) Matthew 16:21-28 [This verse turns the theology of Hebrews into a call to action.]
Other questions to explore:
What was the context? What was going on at the time this was written?
What and where is this happening?
o What makes what was happening meaningful?
o Is there anything special about the location (or locations)?
Who is involved?
o How do they respond to God?
o What character traits do you notice about them?
o What is the significance of their involvement?
What do you think is the key message?
Did anything that surprised or stood out to you? What was it? Share with the group and discuss.
Are there any key verses that stand out to you? Discuss among the group.
Were there any repetitive words or themes that stood out to you? What were they?
---
Is there anything that left you with more questions? What were they? Share with group, discuss, and
research.
Biggest takeaway?
References/Acknowledgements:
Elements of today’s Bible study were referenced from:
1. NLT Courage for Life Men’s Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2023 Tyndale House Ministries
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation
https://www.tyndale.com/sites/courageforlifebible/
2. ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008. The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway,
Wheaton, Illinois.
3. NIV Study Bible, Revolution, copyright 2011. The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV); copyright 1973,
1978, 1984, 2011 by Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan. https://www.zondervan.com/p/niv-bibles-for-teens-
true-images-revolution/
4. NLT Parallel Study Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2011 Tyndale House Ministries
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation
5. HCSB/CSB The Apologetics Study Bible, copyright 2007. The Holy Bible, Holman Christian Standard Bible
(HCSB/CSB); copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holmon Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee.
7. https://www.jeremiahstudybible.com/Hebrews/
1. NLT Courage for Life Men’s Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2023 Tyndale House Ministries
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation
https://www.tyndale.com/sites/courageforlifebible/
2. ESV Study Bible, copyright 2008. The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (ESV); copyright 2001 by Crossway,
Wheaton, Illinois.
3. NIV Study Bible, Revolution, copyright 2011. The Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV); copyright 1973,
1978, 1984, 2011 by Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan. https://www.zondervan.com/p/niv-bibles-for-teens-
true-images-revolution/
4. NLT Parallel Study Bible, New Living Translation (NLT); copyright 2011 Tyndale House Ministries
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation
5. HCSB/CSB The Apologetics Study Bible, copyright 2007. The Holy Bible, Holman Christian Standard Bible
(HCSB/CSB); copyright 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 by Holmon Bible Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee.
7. https://www.jeremiahstudybible.com/Hebrews/
Schedule:
May 2026:
_x_ 001, 05/06 Hebrews, Introduction, Chapters 1 & 2
__ 002, 05/13 Hebrews, Chapters 3 & 4
__ 003, 05/20 Hebrews, Chapters 5 & 6
__ 004, 05/27 Hebrews, Chapters 7 & 8
June 2026:
__ 005, 06/03 Hebrews, Chapters 9
__ 006, 06/10 Hebrews, Chapters 10
__ 007, 06/17 Hebrews, Chapters 11
__ 008, 06/24 Hebrews, Chapters 12 & 13*
*Last meeting, please monitor FV.church/events for more information about the next semester.
_x_ 001, 05/06 Hebrews, Introduction, Chapters 1 & 2
__ 002, 05/13 Hebrews, Chapters 3 & 4
__ 003, 05/20 Hebrews, Chapters 5 & 6
__ 004, 05/27 Hebrews, Chapters 7 & 8
June 2026:
__ 005, 06/03 Hebrews, Chapters 9
__ 006, 06/10 Hebrews, Chapters 10
__ 007, 06/17 Hebrews, Chapters 11
__ 008, 06/24 Hebrews, Chapters 12 & 13*
*Last meeting, please monitor FV.church/events for more information about the next semester.
