Hebrews 1
This month, we will be focusing on the encouraging text of the book of Hebrews. There is a lot of speculation as to who wrote this letter, but there is a consensus about the purpose.
Estimated reading time3 min read
(Read Hebrews 1*)*
This month, we will be focusing on the encouraging text of the book of Hebrews. There is a lot of speculation as to who wrote this letter, but there is a consensus about the purpose. The letter was primarily written to Jewish believers of Christ, who placed great importance on the prophets of the Old Testament. The first two verses explain that God spoke through prophets in the past, and speaks now through Jesus Christ.
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.”
Hebrews was more than likely written for Hellenistic Jews – Christians from Jewish faith who spoke and understood Greek. There was a lot of pressure on them to forego their Christian faith. Setting the true hierarchy right with Christ at the top was one of the main goals for the writer of Hebrews. While Jewish believers at that time placed a lot of emphasis on angels and their positions, it had gotten out of hand and skewed their understanding of Christ’s true authority.
“After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.”
For to which of the angels did God ever say,
“You are my Son;
today I have become your Father”
Not fleeting or changeable, Hebrews reminds us that Jesus is and always was. “…Foundations of the earth and heavens” will wear out but Jesus remains. Knowing who truly reigned helped encourage and challenge believers to continue with their faith. The writer of Hebrews reassured those believers that as Christians, they were still being served by angels.
“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?”
Hebrews makes no mistake about who is superior and sovereign. Jesus, as the Holy Son of God, reigns over mankind and over the angels. Jews at that time were familiar with the chain of command going from God to the Prophets to them. From the moment Christ walked the earth, that chain of command went directly to and through Him. Hebrews reminded people of Christ’s grace and divinity.
To which of the angels did God ever say,
“Sit at my right hand
until I make your enemies
a footstool for your feet”?
Only Jesus. The source of our faith and hope.
Highlights:
- As the Holy Son of God, do we see Jesus first and foremost in our existence?
- Does your faith sometimes cave due to circumstances and external pressures?
- Does your faith rely on the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost or do you get sidetracked by other things that appear spiritual and mystical?
Applications:
- Do we live our life as if Christ is the first and foremost?
- Put more time into learning the Bible and prayer. Focus on your understanding of who Jesus is. Focus on what he has already done for you. How can you show him your love?
- Spend time encouraging others in their faith. Listen to friends in need, be there for someone who is lonely or troubled.
