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| Rev'd G. S. Adeyemo Senior Pastor, Christ Baptist Church, Alimosho Lagos Nigeria |
You will not be consumed by your afflictions; rather you will become a shining star to the glory of God.
A Bible Study Guide on Hebrews 1:1-14
The Last and Superior Word: Ch. 1: 1-3. The first chapter of the Book of Hebrews begins with no philosophical argument about the existence of God. Whatever anyone may believe about God and His existence, for every Christian at any time in any condition God is alive. No matter what you are passing through God is present. Isaiah 43:1-3; Jer. 23:24; Proverbs 15:3; 1 Kings 8:27; Acts 17:24; Colossians 1:17; Matt. 18:20; Psalm 139:7-10; Jeremiah 23:23-24; Rom. 8: 22, 23; Matt. 11:12, 28: 20
Christ Is Superior to Angels: Ch. 1:4-14 the existence of angels is indisputable both in the Bible and in the post apostolic age. The Bible makes many references to their uniqueness and functions. The Hebrew word for angel, malakh, occurs 213 times in the Old Testament. The Greek word for angel, angelos, occurs several times throughout the New Testament and is often translated “messenger,” “one sent,” “envoy,” or “ambassador” especially when referring to the mission and functions of the angelic hosts. They were created by God present at creation. They are to run errand on behalf of children of God. Job 38:1-7; Daniel 10:12-13; They are to worship God and not to be worshiped. Rev. 4:8; Heb. 1:6 Jesus Christ is superior to all angels and He remains the Saviour and Advocate of those who trust in Him. Acts 4: 12; Phil. 2:7-9; Psal 8; Col. 1: 13-17. Jesus is the Son of God. 1:4-5
The Superior Saviour: The Bible gives us accounts of God's original purpose for mankind, how the man lost the purpose and God's plan to restore mankind to Himself through the Seed of the woman. The same is the one that can stand in our place to plead our case before the throne of God. He had since been sending prophets, judges, Kings and angels to rescue us from the perils of sin. He is the complete Saviour Heb 7:25 See also Jn 19:30.
When Jesus is by our side, afflictions turn to purifier that purges us from all dross and make us shine like gold. You will not be consumed by your afflictions; rather you will become a shining star to the glory of God. Phi. 3:21; Col 1:19-20; Heb 5:9; Heb 9:26-28; 1Jn 1:9; Jude 24. Jesus Christ is the Saviour of the world Jn 4:42 See also Lk 2:30-32; 1Ti 2:5-6; 1Ti 4:10; 1Jn 4:14
Application: We must heed the warning against shrinking because of the difficulties we are passing through. Angels, prophets or power may not be able to save us. But Jesus Christ is given all authority in heaven and Earth. He is able to save to the uttermost. Trust in him and you will not be put to shame in Jesus name.
