The Danger Of Not Growing Spiritually. Heb 6:1-4

The author starts the 6th chapter of Hebrews with an exhortation. His readers are urged leave the elementary teachings about Christ and move on to maturity.It is possible that dullness of hearing the Word can lead to spiritual immaturity.Paul warned Timothy that the time will come people will chose only what they want to hear and remain immature in the faith(2 Tim 4:3,4). Basic doctrines are the first principles of the oracles of God and not to be neglected. But Christians should grow into a fuller knowledge of Christ to become mature.  Matured Christians are those who understand the deeper truths about Christ and distinguish truth from error. The elementary teachings falls into three groups. Repentance and faith.  Baptism and laying of hands; Resurrection of the dead and eternal judgement.

Repentance from dead work and faith in God. Dead works are the works unsaved person does to please God to earn salvation(9:14). They have no saving merit before God. Repentance is the radical reorientation of our outlook towards sin and God which results change in behavior.  They turned away from idols to serve the true and living God(1Thess 1:9).Remorse is not repentance. Godly sorrow will produce repentance
(2 Cor 7:8-10). Faith , on the other hand is both trust and obedience to God. It is not more than the belief in the existence and power of God(Jam 2:23-25).Some one said "To believe mind must be convinced, hearts must be consumed with love and will must be committed in obedience". Forcing some one to believe is authoritarianism. Pleading with out explaining could lead to sentimentalism.  Faith comes from hearing and hearing comes from the Word of God(Rom 10:17). This only will help people to accept God's grace revealed in Christ Jesus(John 1:14).

The doctrine of baptisms and laying of hands are the outwards ordinances. The baptisms mentioned here is in plural. These refer to baptismal rites of either Jew or gentiles. They are external in nature and purify only flesh and not conscience(9:13,14). Only saved people should be baptized according to the commandment of Christ(Matt 28:19,20). The laying on of hands was symbol of ordination, recognition and identification
(1 Tim 4:14; 2Tim 1:6). Resurrection of the dead and the eternal judgment are eschatological doctrines revealed in the Old Testament and as well as in the New Testament. The writer warns that these are basic principles and we should advance to a higher knowledge of Christ. Also the writer recognizes that we will do it with the blessings of God.

If we are not growing spiritually, we may be carried away by the errors of false teachers. We are exhorted to grow in the grace and in the knowledge our our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ(2 Pet 3:18). We are saved by grace( Eph 2:8,9). Also we are strengthened by grace(2 Tim 2:1). What ever we are in Christ, it is all because of God's grace(1Cor 15:10). To know Christ we have to study the Bible and make the Bible part of our daily life. It speaks for itself. The best commentary on the Bible is the Bible itself. It shows what is wrong in our lives and corrects us when we go in the wrong direction. The Bible also helps us to do what is right. It prepares and motivates us to serve God(2Tim 3:16-17) Hebrew Christians knew the basic principles of God and not growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Thus they were in danger of carried away by the errors of false teachers. May God help us to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ our great Savior!

Don't Be a Slow Learner. Heb 5:1-14

Jesus Christ is the qualified High Priest. He is also the superior High Priest in that His priesthood is eternal unlike Aaron. Having made purification of our sins by His death, He became our merciful and faithful High Priest for ever(4:15,16). The Old Testament high priests were divinely appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.One of the qualification for the high priest is that he has the capacity to have compassion on those who come to him. He should be able to deal with them gently, understanding their weaknesses. Being human Old Testament high priest had to offer sacrifice for himself as well as for the people.(Lev 16). Christ was divinely appointed to be the High Pries(5:5-6). Here the author quotes Psalm 2:7 and  Psalm 110:4. These references show His sonship and priesthood. As Son He fulfilled Father's will on the cross. He was without sin yet He died once as a sacrifice to take away our sins(9:28)  Some one said that the glory of the risen Savior  finds it's source in the will and purpose of God.  Father planned salvation, Son procured  it and Holy Spirit applies it in those who trust Christ. Christ's priesthood is in the order of Melchizedek who was both a king and a priest(Gen 14:18-20). So Christ is both King and Priest for ever. So Christ's priesthood is indeed superior to the priesthood of Aaron.

In Hebrews 5:7-10, we learn about Christ's agony in the garden of Gethsemane.There He prayed with  tears to the Father who was able to save Him from death. His prayer was answered because of His reverence for God. The answer came, not in the sense that the cup was removed from Him but drinking that cup He would accomplish the saving purpose of God.  He came forth victoriously  by submitting Himself  to Father's will and thus facing the cross fearlessly. Even in the darkest hour Christ provided a timeless example of prayer for us to follow. Thus He learned obedience by the things He suffered. He was never disobedient to the Father. His suffering was a necessary part of His incarnation to relate fully to human conditions so that He could become their compassionate High Priest. Thus having been made perfect,  Christ became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey Him(5:10).Here "Perfect"  means fully qualified. to be the author of our eternal salvation. He is the almighty God at the same time Christ is Son man. He is the creator but He became the man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.  He is the Lord of glory yet He is the lowly Jesus. He is Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. He is able to save us completely because He ever lives to intercede for us(7:25).

In Hebrews 5:11-14, the author fears that his readers are not spiritually grown to understand his teaching.
It might refer to Christ's priesthood in the order of Melchizedek. Though they have been saved long enough, they remain infants in the knowledge of Christ. Here the author warns believer of the danger of not growing in their faith. It can lead to apostasy from Christ. Solid food is only for full-grown believers. Only the matured  Christians have the ability to discern both good and evil. This is a reference to truth from error. It is sad to see many believers remains spiritually infant and in need of constant help.They have no interest in the study of the Scriptures.They are unable to make spiritual discernment between truth and error. Also they are unable to instruct others. They are in danger of drifting from Christ..So let us grow in the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ  (2Pet 3:18). May God help us!!

Christ, Our Great High Priest. Heb 4:14-16

Joshua could not lead Israel into the promised land because of their unbelief. Likewise Christians can miss out the spiritual rest or blessings, Christ has already promised. It is the perfect and eternal rest because of the finished work of Christ on the cross. And  He lives for ever to make intercession for us(John 17:4; 19:30; Heb 5:9; 7:25).  This rest  is not a physical rest but the spiritual blessings. We must make every effort to enjoy this rest in Christ Jesus. We will enter into our eternal rest in  the New Jerusalem one day. There we will serve Christ and reign forever and ever(Rev 22:1-3).. So author exhorts believers to be diligent in serving Christ now and enter into His rest( Matt 11:28-30; Heb 4:11).

God has given us His Word so that we can enter into His promised rest by believing in the great and precious promises of God.  It has the power to transform our lives and root out our unbelief. Only the Word of God has the power to convict us of our sins.  God knows the secrets of out hearts and His word reveals them(Ps 139:7-12).  It reveals the thoughts and intents of our hearts(4:12). This is the God to whom we must give account(4:13).So let us admit our sins before God and seek His forgiveness(2 Sam 12:13).  Ask God to spare others from the consequences of our sins(2 Sam 12:16). Let us acknowledge our sins to God and forsake them. He will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1John 1:7-10)

Having completed the comparison between Joshua and Christ, the author exhorts the believers to consider the Christ our Great High Priest. He is the Great High Priest because He has passed through the heavens into the very presence of God and lives for ever(4:14). Every year the Old Testament  high priest passed through the veil into the Holy of Holies to make atonement for the sins of Israel(Lev 16)  After sprinkling the atoning blood on the mercy seat, he had to leave the Holy of Holies immediately. But Jesus Christ made one sacrifice  and entered heaven once for all(Heb 9:28). His sacrifice on the cross was the fulfillment of all Old Testament sacrifices. At that time the veil of the temple was rent  from top to bottom. Christ is the only High Priest and all believers are priests today(1Pet 2:9). We are exhorted to hold fast on Christ and never stop trusting Him.

Our Great High Priest is Jesus the Son of God(4:14). He is human and divine. He entered  heaven in His humanity and divinity. In His humanity Christ was tempted in all areas of life, yet He did not sin. Christ understands our infirmities so that He can sympathize with us. Therefore the author exhorts us to come boldly to the throne of grace to express our needs. Christ is able to to sympathize with us because He suffered and tempted like us. His victory over sin and temptation was the result of His conscious decision  against sin. His throne is not a throne of judgement but of grace.There we can find grace and mercy in times of need. We are in need of His mercy and forgiveness because we all fail in many ways. We also need grace to face temptations and trials in this life(2 Cor 12:9). What a great consolation and encouragement that we have a Great High Priest,who can help us in all our needs!!

Christ is Superior to Moses and Joshua.Heb3:1-4:9

In Hebrews chapter three and four we see the superiority of Christ over Old Testament leaders. This epistle was written to Hebrew Christians. They are the holy brethren. They are separated from the world and belonged to Christ.  They are the part takers of heavenly calling and bound to heaven. Author wants them to consider Christ, the Apostle and High priest of our  confession.Apostle is the one who is sent with authority. This is the only time Christ is referred to as Apostle in the New Testament. He is also our perfect representative before the Father.  Moses was their great leader. From Adam to Moses, there was none greater than Moses. He led Israel from captivity and did many miracles among them. God spoke to Moses face to face and gave the law through him. He is the author of the first five books of the Bible and the greatest historian. God says Moses was the meekest among all men and faithful in the house of God as a servant(Num 12:3,7). So the author presents a contrast between Moses and Christ to show Christ's superiority.Moses was faithful was a servant but Christ as Son. Christ is the builder and in charge of the household of God. Therefore son has more honor then the servant. Here the household is the entire family of God. So the author exhorts us to be loyal to Christ and continue in the faith to inherit the perfect fellowship with God.

From chapter 3:7 on wards we see the warning against unbelief. Verses 7-11 is a quotation from Psalm  95:7-11.Here the writer gives a solemn warning from the tragic example the children of Israel's wandering in the wilderness. Despite all that God has done for them they rebelled against God and perished  in the wilderness. Out of all men came out of Egypt, only two men over the age of 20 entered the promised land. Unbelief is due to hardness of heart. Hardening of the heart is caused by sin. This can lead to apostasy. It is the falling away from God or drifting away  from the truth. This would keep people from experiencing God's best for their lives. The remedy is to exhort one another daily. Sin is pleasurable to senses and can seduce our soul. So the author encourages us to hold to the initial confidence in the Lord. In Christian life it is not how we started that matter but how we finish.

In chapter 3 the author showed how the children of Israel missed the promised land. They were set free through the blood of the Passover Lamb(Ex 12). They were the saved people from judgement.  In chapter 4, the author encourages the readers to consider the experience of Israel and warns that they should not fall short of God's best for their lives. God is not satisfied with saving us from judgement. We are His workmanship( Eph 2:8_10). Israel lost the fear or or owe once they had for God. They heard the good news at Kadeshbarnea about the promised land(Num 14). But it did not profit them because of unbelief. Joshua did not give them rest. David wrote that this rest is still available(Psalm 95:8).We can find this rest not in a place but in the person of Christ(Matt 11:28). This rest speaks of our blessed fellowship with God.We enter in to this rest when we trust Christ. It is the positional rest. We also experience this rest when we live in obedience. One day we will into eternal rest in heaven. Today this promise is still available for one and all (Matt 11:28-30). Believers should  be careful not to miss God's best for our lives because of unbelief. Many people hear the Gospel,  but not profited because of unbelief. So today if you hear the Gospel, harden not your hearts(4:7).May God help the us! 

Christ Is Superior In His Humanity!

The theme of the epistle of Hebrews is the superiority of Christ.In chapter one we have seen that Jesus is superior to Prophets and Angels. Hebrew Christians became believers in Christ from a Jewish background. For Jews the concept of a suffering Messiah was inconceivable and  a stumbling block. In chapter two the Author proves that, Christ in His humanity has become our perfect Savior by enduring suffering and death for us(2:5-18). His humanity enabled Him to regain man's lost destiny and dominion(2:5-9). It also enabled Him to bring many sons to glory and restored our lost unity as brothers in the family of God. (2:10-13). His death and resurrection set us free from the fear of death by His victory over Devil(2:14-15).By becoming human Christ has become our sympathetic High priest.(2:16-18).

Christ is superior to angels because the future world will be subjected to Christ and believers. Many consider the " world to come" is a reference to millennial kingdom. God's original plan of creating man was to rule over earth(Gen 1:26-28). But man forfeited his dominion by disobedience. Chapter 2:6-8 is a quote from Ps.8:4-6.Fallen mankind has become subservient to angels for a short time. Now man is subjected to sickness and death. He is bound by time and space. Man is afraid of animal and not reigning over any thing. But God was mindful of him. God has not given up hope for mankind. He thought of us and willing to care for us.This can not be said about angels(2 pet 2:4; Jude. 6). One day man will be crowned with glory and honour.This follows the example Christ, who was made lower than angel for a little while to taste death but glorified through Resurrection and exaltation.  Christ remembered us in our low estate. What a merciful Savior!

Christ became man to suffer and taste death for us. Cross is an essential part of  the plan of salvation. For God to become truly human, He must suffer and die. He was made perfect or fully qualified to bring many sons to glory through suffering.. Christ was always perfect. But by His perfection salvation was not made possible. We are saved through the death of Christ and not by His sinless life.. Here perfect simply means completely qualified to provide salvation. That was only possible  through His suffering and death. On the cross Jesus cried "it is finished". Thus He became the author and finisher of our salvation. He is the captain of our salvation  to bring many sons unto glory.  What a Savior!

Christ's humanity brought us into the Family of God (Heb 2:11-13). Those who received Christ are the sons of the same heavenly Father(John 1:12). Thus believers are united in Christ as brothers in the family of God, Verses 12 and 13 are quotations from Psalm 22:22 and Isaiah 8:17,18.  In Psalm 22, David foresaw the suffering and the coming glory of Christ(22:22). The risen savior called His disciples brethren to show their family relationship(John 20:17). Never before they were addressed this way. His death and resurrection restored our lost unity in the family of God.

Adam's sin brought fear and death into human race(Rom 5:12). We lived as slaves to the fear of dying. Christ's death and resurrection set us free from that fear(Col 2:14,15). Christ conquered death and  the devil by His death and resurrection. Death could not keep Christ in it's grip(Act 2:24). Jesus said because I live you shall also live(John 14:19).Believers are not afraid of death, because in death we at home with the Lord in glory(2 Cor 5:8). Through His death and resurrection, Christ destroyed the devil who had the power of death. The word destroy simply  means made powerless. Christ holds the keys of hell and death(Rev 1:18).

Christ's humanity enabled Him to become our sympathetic High Priest(2:17-18).He did not come to save fallen angels but to save fallen human race. This is the heart of the message of this epistle. Christ was not under any obligation to do that. He came voluntarily to reconcile us to God by becoming a sin offering(1John 2:2). Christ was faithful to the Father, in that  He did not lower God's holy standard.  He endured God's wrath for our sins on the cross.He is also our merciful High priest, in that He died on our behalf.  He is our compassionate High Priest. Compassion is love in action. Christ is able and willing to help us in our temptations because He experience them all yet with out sin. He can fortify our will and strengthen us in our weaknesses.Christ knows exactly how we feel.  He will provide comfort and strength in times of need. What a wonderful Savior! Do you Know Him? 

The Danger Of Drifting.

In Hebrews chapter one we have seen that Christ is superior to prophets because He is the final and complete revelation from the Father. So we must listen carefully the truth we have heard so that we may not drift away from Christ. Drifting is moving in the wrong direction from where ships are anchored. It is a slow process   We drift not because of ignorance but of carelessness. Salvation is a gift from God and never neglect this precious gift. Christians should avoid drifting by growing in the knowledge of Christ and in His grace. If we are preoccupied with the world and neglect the gathering of believers, prayer, fellowship and the study of the Scriptures, we are prone to drift.

Hebrew Christians came to Christ from Jewish faith and ritualism. After they became followers of Christ, they suffered public ridicule and persecutions from Romans and Jews( 10:32,33). There was shame associated with the name of Jesus of Nazareth.  For Jews the Crucifixion of Jesus was the ultimate disgrace and curse. Christianity was not a recognized religion. So many of them  were tempted to go back to their old religion to avoid persecution and shame. These Christians were not anchored in Christ.  So the author exhort and warn the believers to give more earnest heed to the things they have heard. Other wise they are in danger of drifting away from Christ. The law was given through the mediation of angels(Act 7:53). Disobedience of the law received just punishment. If so, how sever would be the punishment of those who neglect the great salvation proclaimed by Christ.

Christ is the author of the great salvation. It was first announced by Lord Himself. Those who were eye witnesses of Christ passed on this good news to us. It was verified by signs and wonders and various miracles and by giving gifts of the Holy Spirit..  Signs were to attest the divine nature of the message. Wonders show how it effected the people. Power points to God as the source of them. So the author asks, how can we escape if we neglect so great salvation. Why is it so great salvation? Because it cost the life of  the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16). It is the only salvation for mankind(Act 4:12).It is the answer for man's fundamental problem and accessible to rich and poor. This is the great salvation because it is the eternal covenant between man and Holy God.  Salvation is a gift from God and can not be earned by good works. Who ever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (Rom10:13).

Author warns the readers about the danger of neglecting so great salvation. Those who do not take this Word seriously will drift away from  Jesus Christ(2:1). Drifting can lead to doubting and hardness of heart(3:7-13). This would lead to dullness of hearing and lack of interest in the word of God(5:11).Those who neglect the Word will  despise it sooner of later. This would lead them to sinful life style(10:26). Receiving the knowledge of the truth never save anyone but faith in the revealed truth of Jesus Christ. Those who despise  the Word may refuse even to listen the Word of God and will not escape the judgement of God(12:25).

If you are drifting from Christ, there is no place to go. Jesus is waiting for you. He wants to welcome you and restore you to His fellowship. He is the anchor of our faith and hope. His Word reveals the great plan of salvation. Those who believe Him will be saved. He wants us to grow in the grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.  And do not neglect the study of the Scripture, the gathering of the believers and prayer. Let us surrender ourselves to Christ and anchored in Him, so that we may not drift from Him. May God help us!.

Christ Is Superior To The Angels.

In the first century Hebrew Christians gave great importance to angels because of their role in the giving of the Law(Act 7:53; Gal 3:19)Some even taught that Christ Himself was an angel, thus able to do miracles. There is evidence in the Scripture that angels were worshiped(Col 2:18). So it became necessary to prove that Christ is superior to angels. From eternity to eternity Christ is the Son of God and Creator of all things including the angels(Col 1:16). They are the heavenly host, serving as messengers and ministering spirits.  In this epistle the author is quoting seven Old Testament passages to prove the superiority of Christ over angels.

1. Christ is superior to angels because He inherited a more excellent name than angels(1:4,5). "Thou art my Son".This is a quotation from Psalm 2:7.Angels are called sons of God collectively but never called Son individually(Job 1:6). Christ has a unique relationship with the Father(John 20:17). The prophecy of Psalm 2:7 was fulfilled in the  resurrection of Christ.(Act 13:32,33). It was a reference of His position at the throne of God, after completing the plan of salvation. He is declared to be the Son of God because He is the eternal Son of God(John 17:5; Rom 1:4).His name is above every name and at His name every name will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is the Lord to the glory of God the Father(Phi 2:9,10). So He is superior to angels. 

2. Christ is superior to angels because they are commanded to worship Him(1:6). The is a quotation from Psalms 97:7. This seems like a reference to Solomon but his throne was not eternal. But Christ will reign over Israel for ever and His kingdom will never end(Luke 1:32).To Mary, Christ was the first born(Luke 2:7). He is the first born among many brethren(Rom 8:29). This is a reference Christ's supreme position and our conformation to His image. He is the first born from the dead, a reference to Christ's resurrection from the dead(Rev 1:5). The universal acknowledgement of His Lordship and worship will take place at His second coming. Angels are also ministering spirits(Heb 1:7). This is a quotation from Psalm 104:4. There are created beings. Scholars suggest that the word spirit can be translated wind.  Elijah was taken up in the whirlwind(2King 2:1). So are the angels serving the Lord. They served Christ in His temptation and passion(Matt4:11;Luke 22:43).As servants, angels are inferior to Christ who created them.

3. Christ is superior because He is God enthroned and anointed(Heb 1:8,9).This a quotation from Psalm 45:6,7.Here Christ is referred to as God(Greek-theos). To the Son, God the Father says"your throne o God is for ever and ever. This is an undeniable proof of the deity of Christ. Those who deny this emphatic statement has an issue withe God and the Bible. Further here it says, His throne is for ever. This speaks of the eternality and majesty of the Son. He has been anointed with the oil of gladness.This speaks of His kingship. Jesus having completed the work of redemption is enthroned in glory and anointed with the oil of  gladness (Psalm 110:1). Jesus is indeed God, otherwise our faith is meaningless.

4.  Christ is superior because He is the creator(Heb 1:10-12).These verses are quoted from Psalm 102:25-27.Angels are created beings. Christ is the eternal creator.Everything is exposed to decay and will perish but He will not change. He is the same yesterday,today and forever(13:8).Those who believe Christ have eternal life and will be with Him for ever.Yes, the one whom we worship never changes. Blessed be His name!

5.  Christ is superior because He is sovereign(1:13-14). This is a quotation from Psalm 110:1. Angels are only servants. He sits at the right hand of the throne majesty. During His incarnation He was not sitting there. After He completed the work of redemption, He sat at the right hand of God making intercession for us(Rom 8:34).On the cross Christ conquered Satan and He is superior over Satan." Making thine enemies thy footstool," is a  reference to an ancient custom of victorious kings placing their feet on the neck of the defeated kings(Joshua 10:24) This also gives us the picture of the ultimate reign of Christ  soon going to take place. (Rev 11:15). This is the beginning of the end. This is the hope of the world . Angels are ministering at the throne of Christ. They are sent to minister to those who are saved(1:14). They are appointed to minister to us in times of trouble(Psalm 91:11,12). Yes. Christ is the sovereign king. He is our Savior. He is our provider and protector.He will never leave us nor forsake us. Do you know Him? He is indeed superior to angels!!  

Is Jesus Prominent or Pre-imminent?

The theme of the epistle of Hebrew is the superiority of Jesus Christ.People ask many questions about Jesus Christ. Why Jesus had to be born? Why He had to die? Why He had to be resurrected? Why Jesus ascended to heaven? The answer is the book of Hebrews. Some call this book the fifth Gospel. The first four Gospels explain what Christ did on earth. Hebrews describes what Jesus is doing in heaven. Hebrews may be compared to Romans. Romans reveals the necessity of the Gospel. Hebrews explains the superiority of the Christian faith. Christ is superior to Old Testament prophets. Hebrews starts with no self identification of the author or greetings. There is a sense of urgency in the writing of this letter. During the Old Testament  period, God spoke to us in different ways and different times.  God  spoke to us through dreams, visions and prophets over a period of many years(2Sam 23:2; 2Pet 1:21). This revelation was incomplete and fragmentary. Old Testament Prophets were testifying of Christ(Lk 23:26; John 5:39;Rom 1:2).To Moses God appeared in a burning bush( Ex 3:2) To Elijah he spoke in still small voice(1 King 19:12 ).To Isaiah God spoke in a vision(Is 6:8).But in these last days God has spoken to us through His Son(Heb 1:2). It is the final and complete revelation from the Father. The period of last days begins with Christ's incarnation and ends at His second coming(Heb 9:26).  This letter was not written to scare but to encourage the readers.  


First,Christ is superior to O.T Prophets because He is the complete revelation of God. He is the Word that became flesh and lived among us. Disciples saw His glory as the glory of the only begotten of the Father full of grace and truth( John 1:1,14). Jesus revealed the Father to us(John 1;18). He is the living Word and the Bible is the written Word . It is the once for all given Word for our faith and holy living(Jude 1:3) So we do not need any further revelation today but illumination on the Word of God to know Christ..


Secondly, Christ is superior to prophets because He is future heir of all things.All things belong to God(Ps 24:1). Since Jesus is the Son He is the rightful heir of all things (2:5-9). All believers are also the part of His inheritance(Eph 1:18). He owns us by creation and redemption.  We are joint heirs with Christ and reign with Him side by side one day. May be it is a reference to millennial reign  in the future. 


Thirdly, Christ is superior to prophets because He is the creator of all invisible and visible things(Jn 1:3). Father delegated the creation process to Son. In Him and by Him and for Him all things were created.(Col 1:15-17). He is the sovereign source, the divine agent, and for His glory all things were created.  He is the first cause of creation(Rev 3:14). We live in a universe that belongs to Christ. In creation we see God's power and wisdom. Scripture says "Christ is the power and wisdom of God"(1Cor 1:24).


Fourthly, Christ is superior over prophets because He is the brightness of God's glory.He represent God exactly. Christ is the radiance of the brightness of God's glory. God is clothed with majesty and glory. He revealed His presence through His glory in the Tabernacle(Ex 40:34).Christ has revealed the invisible God (.John 1:18).Peter said that  we are witnesses of His glory.(2 Pet 1:16-18).No angel or prophet could make that claim. Christ is the express image or the imprint of God. Jesus said " I and my Father are one"(John 10:30).He who has seen Christ has seen the Father(John 14:9).Christ is the true God and eternal life(1John 5:20).Great is the mystery of our faith "God was manifest in the flesh"(1 Tim 3:15).


Fifthly,Christ is superior to prophets because He upholds all things by the word of His power. He carries all things into their final destiny. He does control and guide history. You are not your own. He created all things by His word of power for a purpose. (Is 40:26; Jer 32:17).In  Christ all things consist. 


Sixthly, Christ is superior to prophets because He purged our sins by His atoning sacrifice. Man's sin brought curse and corruption into this world(Gen 3:17). Apart from God , creation is meaningless and heading into decay and death. Christ came to redeem us from the bondage of sin. God sent  His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to become a sin offering for us.The one who knew no sin was made sin for us(2 Cor 5:21). Old Testament sacrifices could not remove our sins.  But the blood of Christ cleanses us from all our sins(1 John 1:7). Those who believe Christ are declared righteous today upon the merits of Jesus Christ.


Lastly, Christ is superior to prophets because He is the exalted king and the finisher of our faith. He purged our sins once for all and sat down on the right hand of the majesty in heaven. This is in direct contrast to the old testament priestly ministry. They offer repeated sacrifices for sin and continually standing. There was no chair in the Tabernacle and priest were not allowed to sit there.  Christ died only once to take away our sins.  On the cross He said "It is finished". There is nothing left for Him to do for our salvation. Salvation is a gift from God and just receive it by faith. First He came to take away our sins. He will come again for those who wait for Him. Do you know this great Savior? Are you ready to welcome Him? 

HEBREWS: Introduction.

Purpose:  The theme of this letter is the superiority of Jesus Christ. This is the only epistle that begins with the word "God". It was written to encourage the discouraged and weary Hebrew Christians to hold fast  to their faith in Christ and go on to maturity. There were challenged to see the preeminence of Christ over Judaism (13:22). Jewish Christians were persecuted by Romans and fellow Jews for their faith in Jesus Christ(10:32-34). So the author shows in this epistle the superiority of  Christ and the new covenant over Judaism. Christ is superior in His person, purpose, priesthood, and principle. In this epistle  many Old Testament references are quoted  to assures the Jewish Christians of their spiritual heritage of the new convent into which they have entered. Also by contrasting the old and new convent the author shows the superiority of Christ. As some one said "this is an epistle of encouragement, examination, evaluation, expectation and exaltation".


Authorship: No one knows who wrote Hebrews. The author of this epistle remains anonymous. Some call Hebrews the orphan epistle.Most assumes the authorship to apostle Paul. It seems the author was a Jew and had knowledge of Jewish traditions and Levitical priesthood.  The language and the personal reference to Timothy also may attribute the authorship to Paul(13:23). Some think that Barnabas or Apollos or Luke might have written this epistle. As Origen of Alexandria wrote regarding the authorship of Hebrews that "who the author of the epistle is, only God truly knows. But scholars suggest that there is abundance of evidence from the early church that Hebrews was a part of the biblical canon and quoted widely in the early church fathers. There has been little question throughout the centuries about the canonicity of the epistle of Hebrews.


Date: The epistle of Hebrews was written prior to the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Throughout the epistle, it is evident that the Jewish sacrificial system was still going on(8:4; 10:8,11). This epistle was written to a second-generation Christians(2:3).They were severely persecuted under Nero for their faith.(12:4). Temple was still standing when Hebrews was written(10:11). There is a mention of Timothy's recent release(13:23). So it would seem logical to assume that this epistle was written between A D 64 and 68.


Readership:  The earliest manuscript shows that this epistle was written "To Hebrews". They were first century Jewish Christians who were in danger of returning to Judaism to escape persecution.  Judaism was a legal religion and Christianity was not. These readers were confirmed in their faith in Christ by those who heard Christ(2:3). They were not poor.So it seems they were not located in Palestine. The author closes the epistle by stating that "those from Italy greet you"(13:24).It implies that Italians outside of Ital were sending greetings back home. So we conclude that Rome was the destination of this epistle. Another possibility is that Hebrews was written from Rome to scattered Jewish believers in the Roman empire. 


Theme: The theme of Hebrews  is the superiority Christ over Judaism. The word superior or better appears thirteen times in this letter. He is superior in His person, priesthood and principles of faith. He is the qualified or perfect High priest to represent us. He is greater than Aaron the high priest. He is the author of eternal salvation. He is our great high priest and eternal mediator. He is superior is His priestly ministry. Christ is superior in His power. His kingdom is unshakable. He is our great Shepherd. He is the same yesterday, today and for ever. Hebrews shows the finality of God's revelation for our salvation and Christian life. Do you know this great Savior. As we continue this study , may the Holy Spirit strengthen us to run the race that is set before us(12:1).May God bless you all!

You Follow Me!!

In the last chapter of John's Gospel we read about our Lord's appearance to seven disciples, the restoration of Peter and the prophecy about the future of Peter, and John the beloved disciple. Jesus appeared again to the disciples by the sea of Galilee.After the resurrection of Jesus, Peter did not know what to do. So  he said I am going for fishing. Though he did not invite them, other disciples volunteered to go with him. There is no indication that Peter intended to return to his old occupation permanently. Beware  that our bad example can influence others negatively. They caught nothing during the night. Peter in particular must have felt worthless as a fisherman. He failed his Lord in the past , now he was a failed fisherman.  Then in the early morning hour they heard a voice from the shore"children, do you have any fish?" They said no. They had no clue who he was. He said "through your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some". They obeyed Him because there was something compelling about this stranger. They caught many fish and could not draw in the net because it was so heavy. Then John  said to Peter "it is  the Lord".How did John recognize Jesus? Because Jesus had done this before(Lk 5:4-11).Immediately Peter jumped in to the water and reached the shore. Other disciples joined Peter. By that time Christ had already prepared a meal consisted of fish and bread for them. Jesus asked them to bring some fish that you have just caught. There were 153 fish, yet the net was not torn. Thus Christ manifested  His glory. Jesus invited them to come and dine. He served them bread and fish. They ate in silence under the weight of their unfaithfulness. What a merciful Savior!

In the following verses we see one of the greatest conversations of restoration in history (21:15-17).  Peter realized he had denied his Lord. And he went out and wept bitterly(Lk 22:62). Peter also knew that Jesus had forgiven him. He denied Jesus three times, now the Lord asks Peter three times about his love for the Lord. The Lord was probing the sincerity of Peter's love. First two times Jesus asked Peter "do you love me with a sacrificial love, God's kind of love(Agapao)? Peter responded with a different word for love(Phileo), which means deep friendship love. Each time Peter responded, Jesus reaffirmed his future ministry by saying, "feed my sheep".Third time Jesus used the same word Peter used for love and asked him do you love me  with friendship love? Peter replied "Lord you know everything, you know that I love you". Thus Peter affirmed his devotion to the Lord before receiving the the call to feed and care for the believers. Jesus is the good Shepherd who gave his life to save us. He is also the good Shepherd who restores the sheep and gives the responsibility. They are the under shepherds. And when the chief Shepherd appears, they will receive the crown of glory for their faithful service(1Pet 5:2-4). We must love God before we can serve Him faithfully. If we love God we long for Him(PS 42:1). Then we love the things He loves and hate what He hates. Those who love the Lord will long for His return. If we love Him we will obey His commandments(John  14:15). Like Peter, you may be tempted to believe that you have failed the Lord and God can never use you in His service again.  Peter, repented  and he was restored.  Come to Christ, He will restore you.  A committed heart leads to committed service.

Jesus' first and the last invitation to Peter was follow me.(Mk 1:17; John 21:19). Following Christ should be a consistent experience. When we fail, be honest with the Lord. He will restore us and use us for His glory. Jesus indicated that Peter will have a long and useful life of service. Peter asked about the future of John. Jesus said  to peter, you just follow me. We must not compare our life with other believer's life. Jesus calls Peter to a life of total commitment to Him. How about you and me? The entire Gospel is the testimony of John about the deity of Jesus Christ. John concludes that he has written only a small portion of all that Jesus did.  Jesus is asking each one of us this question. Do you love me? May God help us to know Jesus personally and follow Him faithfully in the coming days. God bless you all!