A couple of times over the last week, I’ve encountered Hebrews 1:1-3, either in my own devotional reading or at a Bible study at the church where I’m a member.
This is a passage you’ve probably taught or preached on before. I know I have multiple times.
As a reminder, here’s what the passage says:
“Long ago God spoke to the fathers by the prophets at different times and in different ways. In these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son. God has appointed him heir of all things and made the universe through him. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact expression of his nature, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” (CSB)
In verses 1-2, the writer makes very clear this foundational truth: God has spoken! For churches that are struggling to either stay alive or to come back to life, this is amazing! God has revealed Himself!
We don’t have to wonder what He is like. He’s made Himself known!
He spoke in the past, here meaning specifically the Old Testament, revealing bits and pieces about Himself. Then, in the Incarnation, He spoke clearly through His Son, Jesus Christ. In Jesus as He’s revealed throughout the New Testament, we have a clear picture of God’s heart for His people. We see the lengths He went to proclaim liberty to those in bondage to sin.
Not only does Jesus come proclaiming who God is, but He is “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact expression of His nature.” In Jesus, we see most clearly who God is.
“The Baptist Faith & Message” describes Jesus this way: “Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself human nature with its demands and necessities and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin.”
Now, consider these truths in the context of church replanting and revitalization. Through Jesus, God has spoken clearly and, in Jesus, God has clearly revealed Himself.
This means we don’t have to go around wondering what God is like and what He would say. He has made Himself known!
So, pastor, stay glued to your Bible. Preach the word, week in and week out. Teach your folks who Jesus is. Make sure your sermons focus on the message of redemption. Proclaim the glorious truths of the gospel and trust that, as you do, God is shaping His people to look more and more like Jesus.
Particularly as we celebrate Christmas in this season of a continuing pandemic, many things can distract us from these simple truths. Calendars get full. Nerves get frayed. But don’t get distracted. Keep your eyes focused on Jesus, and help your folks keep their eyes on Him, too.
God has spoken, and He has revealed Himself. Rest in these truths, pastor!
Published December 10, 2021
