Today begins our first day in reading the book of Hebrews. If you got lost in Jeremiah, today is a good day to get back on track with your daily reading.
Hebrews is an anonymous book. The human author is not identified. Many believe it was written by the Apostle Paul or by a close associate of Paul. Whatever the case, the book is specifically addressed to Jewish believers who were apparently contemplating a return to Judaism.
Why would they be thinking of returning? Well, historically, around AD 63, Nero began his empire-wide persecution of Christians. Before this time, most Christians were fairly safe in the empire. They might face persecution here and there but overall the empire considered Christianity as a sect of Judaism and pretty much left early believers alone. However, under Nero’s reign, this changed.
With persecution of Christians spreading, it appears that some Jewish believers considered “changing their allegiance.” Instead of following Christ (at least openly) they wanted to go back into the “safe” fold of Judaism. The writer of Hebrews warns them that such a move is spiritually dangerous and intellectually inconsistent. How can you go back to that which has been completed and surpassed in Christ? One of the major themes in Hebrews is that “Christ is better.” You don’t trade in what is better to pick up what is obsolete.
I love the start of Hebrews 1:
In the past God spoke to our forefathers 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 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. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.
Jesus Christ is greater than all the prophets. Jesus Christ is greater than all the angels.
Who is Jesus? He is the Word of God. He is the heir of all things. He is the creator of the universe. He is the radiance of God’s glory. He is the exact representation of God. He is the sustainer of all things. He is the Savior of all mankind. He is the name above all names. It is hard to find a better description of Christ in the New Testament.
It is good to remember that Christianity is not just a philosophy of life or a good means of fellowship or a high moral code. It is the joining of oneself to Christ. It is believing by faith that Jesus Christ is who He said He is, that Jesus Christ is God in the flesh, the living Savior of humanity.
Father, thank You for Your Son, Jesus!