August 30, 2023 -- Hebrews 1:1-4 -- Hebrews: Jesus is Better

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.
Hebrews 1:1-4 ESV

In preparation for a teaching series I’ll be leading on Wednesday evenings, I have been listening to podcasts by Michael Kruger, the President of Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte. He is teaching through Hebrews. I have deeply appreciated how he offers a concise, memorable theme for Hebrews: “Jesus is Better”. In these four opening verses Jesus is better than the prophets of old who pointed to God, because Jesus Himself is God and Man. Jesus is better than the kings of old, for He not only rules all things, but He created all things. Jesus is better, He is the High Priest who can sit down. All other priests always had to stand and perform their endless tasks and duties. Jesus offered the once for all sacrifice for our sins and He turned aside the wrath of God against our sins, so He alone can sit at the Father’s right hand having completed this aspect of His redemptive work.

Consider this, He, Who made the heavens and the earth stooped to our weakness and took on flesh. The most glorious, High King of Heaven, suffered, bled and died for the sinners who were His enemies and were in rebellion against Him. He perfectly, patiently, and persistently pleads our cause to the Father. Jesus is worthy of worship because He is God. He is worthy of awe because our Great and Glorious King redeemed us while we were still at war with Him in our minds and hearts and lives. Think about this. Recognize He is better than all the things of this world which tug on your heart. Oh, bless His Name now and forever.

Our Father in heaven hallowed be Your Name. Thank You for the rich and glorious salvation You have given in Jesus Christ. King Jesus, how great and radiant You are. Divine Prophet, Priest and King teach us to adore You, and enable us to follow You in the strength of Your Holy Spirit. Amen.

https://youtu.be/FzOZLTwaef0?si=qIb_YLTJIN9GjATW “Now Blessed Be the Lord our God”

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