Hope for the Hebrews
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. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
– Hebrews 1:1-3
The Letter to the Hebrews serves as a direct connection from the Old Testament promises of God to the fulfillment of those in the person of Jesus Christ. We do not know the author, it is unsigned. Neither are we clear on the particular audience of the book. Hebrews stands as an open letter to all Jews, from the apostles, collectively.
The many references to Old Testament scriptures help give context and proof of Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecies. The list of “heroes in the faith” from Hebrews 11, helps to show that even the patriarchs of the Jews were saved by their faith in God – not their works. Hebrews shows how foolish it is to reject Jesus because his “once for all” sacrifice on the cross is far superior to their daily and yearly sacrifices.
It is difficult to try and convince people to trust in God and have faith in Jesus Christ simply through debate and foolproof arguments. That is not how most people come to faith. We come to faith through a personal relationship with Christ. The purpose of the Letter to the Hebrews, I believe, is not to simply convince the Jews to believe in Jesus because of a good argument, but to open their hearts and minds to the possibility and the person of Jesus Christ. If they will just be open, they might see how God shows up personally for them.
God doesn’t call each of us to share the good news of Jesus through debate. He desires that we live our faith and show others how we walk with Jesus. May our lives show the glory and majesty of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
God of the ages, you have spoken your word of life to us. We confess that we have chosen death instead of life. We have denied the reflection of your image in every person, behaving as if our comfort and our needs were more important than the needs and the lives of those around us. We have turned our backs on our neighbors, despoiled your creation, and forgotten your love for all. Forgive us, we pray. Cleanse our hearts, set us free from sin, and raise us to new life in Christ, in whom we pray by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER SERVICE THURSDAY MAY 2 AT 5PM.
