Hebrews 1

Context

The Epistle to the Hebrews is a unique and powerful New Testament book that is notably different in style from Paul's letters. It is traditionally attributed to Paul, but the authorship has been debated throughout church history, and the identity of its author remains uncertain.

The primary audience of Hebrews is believed to be Jewish Christians, possibly those who resided in Jerusalem. The date of its writing is also debated, but it likely was written before the destruction of the Jerusalem temple in AD 70. These Jewish Christians were familiar with Old Testament teachings and rituals, and many of them were considering returning to Judaism due to persecutions and societal pressures.

Hebrews 1 dives deep into the Old Testament, directly addressing the superiority of Jesus over angels and Old Testament revelations. This chapter works to establish Christ's supremacy, demonstrating that He is not only superior to the angels but also the full and final revelation of God to humanity. The chapter serves as a foundation for the main theological arguments of the entire epistle.

Theme and Outline

Hebrews 1 sets the tone for the entire epistle by establishing the unparalleled greatness and supremacy of Jesus Christ.

Jesus: The Supreme Revelation of God (Hebrews 1:1-2)

In times past, God spoke through various methods and messengers, including prophets. But in these last days, God has chosen to speak through His Son, Jesus. The Son is the heir of all things, and it is through Him that the universe was made. Jesus is not just another prophet; He is the Creator and ultimate communicator of God's message.

Jesus: The Radiance of God's Glory (Hebrews 1:3)

Jesus reflects the very essence and glory of God. He is not merely a reflection; He is the radiance. Just as the sun's rays are the essence of the sun, Jesus is the essence of God. Furthermore, He upholds all of creation by His powerful word. After providing purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven, signifying His finished work and unparalleled position.

Jesus: Superior to Angels (Hebrews 1:4-14)

Angels are magnificent beings, but Jesus is superior to them. While angels serve God and His purposes, Jesus is the Son, the heir of all things. The writer uses various Old Testament references to show the distinction between angels and the Son. For instance, to which angel did God ever say, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father" (v. 5)? Or "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet" (v. 13)? These references underscore Jesus' unique position and authority.

Brothers and sisters, this chapter serves as a resounding declaration: Jesus is not only the mediator of a better covenant but is also, in His person and work, superior to all of God's previous methods of revelation and all celestial beings. He is supreme, and it is to Him that we must listen and obey.

Proposition

You should heed Jesus above all.

The emphasis of Hebrews 1 revolves around the superiority and majesty of Jesus Christ in comparison to angels and previous modes of God's revelation. In past times, God spoke through various means – prophets, visions, dreams, and angels. But now, in these "last days," God has chosen to speak through His Son (Hebrews 1:2). This Son isn't just a messenger; He is the very radiance of God's glory, the exact imprint of His nature, and the one through whom the universe was made. The consistent message is clear: Jesus is unparalleled in His authority and revelation. Therefore, when He speaks, it demands our utmost attention and response. Just as one would prioritize a message from a king over that of a servant, so should we prioritize the words and teachings of Jesus above all other revelations.

Illustrations

Moses and the Burning Bush: Moses, while tending his father-in-law's flock, encountered God in a burning bush. Here, God communicated His plan to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. Moses heeded God's voice and, despite initial hesitations, went on to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. In this encounter, it was essential for Moses to heed God's voice above all others – even above his doubts and the doubts of others. Similarly, we must prioritize Jesus' voice over all other voices in our lives.

Elijah at Mount Carmel: Elijah, the prophet of God, stood against 450 prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. He challenged them to call on their god to consume a sacrifice. When they failed, Elijah called on the Lord, and fire from heaven consumed the wet sacrifice, proving the Lord's supremacy. Elijah heeded God's direction and stood firm in a challenging situation, leading to a significant victory for the Lord. This illustrates the importance of listening and acting upon God's voice, which for us is supremely found in Jesus.

Peter Walking on Water: When the disciples saw Jesus walking on water, they were terrified, thinking it was a ghost. But Jesus identified Himself, and Peter, in a burst of faith, asked if he could come to Jesus on the water. Jesus invited him, and Peter walked on water. However, when he took his eyes off Jesus and focused on the storm around him, he began to sink. This story illustrates the necessity of keeping our focus on Jesus and heeding His voice, even amidst life's storms.

Reasons You should heed Jesus above all

Because He Spoke God's Word (Hebrews 1:2)

The term "spoken" derives from the Greek "laleó." In John 8:43, Jesus asks, "Why do you not understand what I say (laleó)?" emphasizing the act of speaking. God, who once spoke in varied ways, has in these last days definitively spoken through His Son. It's like shifting from sketches to the full picture.

Because He Made the World (Hebrews 1:2)

"Made" in Greek is "poiéō." In Revelation 4:11, it's said, "For you created (poiéō) all things." Jesus isn't just a messenger; He's the creator, giving Him unmatched authority.

Because He Radiates God (Hebrews 1:3)

The word "radiance" in Greek is "apaugasma." It means brightness or reflection. As the radiance of God's glory, Jesus perfectly mirrors God's nature. This same term is used in 2 Corinthians 4:4, describing Christ as the image of God.

Because He Sustains All (Hebrews 1:3)

"Upholding" in Greek is "pheró," meaning to carry or bear. As seen in Luke 17:31, where one is advised not to go down to take what's in his house, the word pheró emphasizes an active holding. Jesus actively maintains the universe.

Because He Purified Sins (Hebrews 1:3)

The act of purification is denoted by the Greek "katharismos." In 2 Peter 1:9, "cleansed (katharismos) from his former sins" underscores the thorough cleansing from sins Jesus accomplished.

Because He Sat in Heaven (Hebrews 1:3)

"Sat down" implies a position of honor and completion of work. Unlike priests who stood daily offering sacrifices, Jesus' work was once and for all.

Because He Surpassed Angels (Hebrews 1:4-14)

The term "name" often indicates nature or character. In the biblical era, one's name wasn't just an identifier but a descriptor of their essence. Jesus' inheritance of a more excellent name than the angels signifies His superiority over them.

As we consider these reasons, recall David, the man after God's own heart. Though he had many counselors and advisors, he esteemed God's Word above all (Psalm 119:105). David's life was marked by heeding God's voice, showing us the fruit of prioritizing God's Word, as we should prioritize Jesus, God's final Word to us.

Ways You should heed Jesus above all

By Valuing His Words (Hebrews 1:2)

"Spoken" is derived from "laleó" in Greek. John 8:43 uses the same term, emphasizing the importance of understanding what is said. We should cherish and give utmost importance to the words of Jesus.Illustration: Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus, chose to sit at Jesus' feet, listening to His teachings while Martha was busy with preparations. Jesus commended Mary for choosing the better part (Luke 10:38-42).

By Recognizing His Authority (Hebrews 1:2)

The term "Made" in Greek is "poiéō," indicating creation. As seen in Revelation 4:11, recognizing Jesus as the Creator is pivotal. This understanding places Him in a position of unmatched authority.Illustration: Nebuchadnezzar, after being humbled by God, recognized and proclaimed God's sovereignty over all kingdoms on earth and His ability to humble those who walk in pride (Daniel 4:34-37).

By Reflecting His Glory (Hebrews 1:3)

"Radiance" in Greek is "apaugasma." Mirroring Jesus in our lives means showing His nature, as indicated in 2 Corinthians 4:4. We can reflect His nature in our actions and decisions.Illustration: Stephen, while being stoned, displayed Christ's character by praying for his persecutors. His face was described as looking like the face of an angel (Acts 6:15; 7:60).

By Trusting His Sustenance (Hebrews 1:3)

The Greek term "pheró" means to carry or bear. As seen in Luke 17:31, it underscores an active holding. Relying on Jesus means believing that He holds and sustains us.Illustration: Joseph, despite his trials in Egypt, trusted in God's overarching plan and providence. He recognized God's sustaining hand throughout his life (Genesis 50:20).

By Embracing His Redemption (Hebrews 1:3)

"Purification" comes from the Greek "katharismos." 2 Peter 1:9 emphasizes the thorough cleansing from sins. By accepting Jesus' sacrifice, we embrace the redemption He offers.Illustration: Rahab, the prostitute from Jericho, embraced redemption by assisting the Israelite spies and expressing her faith in God. She and her family were spared during the conquest of Jericho (Joshua 2; 6:22-25).

By Upholding His Position (Hebrews 1:3)

Recognizing Jesus' position of honor and the completion of His work is vital. By respecting and upholding His position, we acknowledge His unmatched stature.Illustration: John the Baptist recognized and upheld Jesus' superior position, stating that he wasn't even worthy to untie Jesus' sandals (John 1:27).

By Prioritizing Him Over Others (Hebrews 1:4-14)

The term "name" often implies nature or character. By placing Jesus above all, including angels, we recognize His supreme essence and character.Illustration: Daniel prioritized his relationship with God over the decrees of King Darius. Even with the threat of the lions' den, Daniel continued his practice of praying to God three times a day (Daniel 6:10-23).

Pointing to Christ

Hebrews 1 is a powerful testament to the supremacy of Jesus Christ, and its themes and doctrines are echoed and fulfilled in numerous New Testament passages.

Supreme Revelation: Hebrews 1:1-2 emphasizes that God spoke to us by His Son. In John 1:1-14, Jesus is described as the Word who was with God from the beginning and through whom all things were made. As the Word, Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God to humanity.

Heir of All Things: Jesus being the heir of all things (Hebrews 1:2) is beautifully echoed in Romans 8:17, where believers are described as co-heirs with Christ. Everything that belongs to Christ will be shared with His people.

Creator and Sustainer: That Christ was instrumental in creation (Hebrews 1:2) aligns with Colossians 1:16-17, where Paul writes that all things were created through Him and for Him, and in Him, all things hold together.

Radiance of God's Glory: The concept of Jesus being the radiance of God's glory (Hebrews 1:3) finds harmony in 2 Corinthians 4:6, where God's light shines in our hearts to give the knowledge of God's glory displayed in the face of Christ.

Purification for Sins: The purification of sins by Jesus (Hebrews 1:3) is a central New Testament theme, particularly in passages like 1 John 1:7, where the blood of Jesus purifies us from all sin, and Ephesians 1:7, where we have redemption through His blood.

Superiority to Angels: The repeated emphasis on Jesus' superiority over angels (Hebrews 1:4-14) is seen in passages such as 1 Peter 3:22, where Jesus has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers in submission to Him.

In all these ways and more, the New Testament consistently reinforces and expands upon the themes of Hebrews 1, pointing to Jesus Christ as the supreme revelation and the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan for redemption. The entire arc of Scripture points to Him, underscoring the importance of placing our faith, hope, and trust in Jesus alone.

Gospel Invitation

Beloved, Hebrews 1 lays a foundation that is profound, reminding us of the unparalleled greatness of Jesus Christ. It's not just a theological declaration; it's a personal invitation. Every word spoken about Jesus in this chapter has implications for your life and destiny.

Consider this: If Jesus is indeed the final and supreme revelation of God (Hebrews 1:1-2), then in Him, we find the answers to our deepest questions, the solutions to our most pressing problems, and the fulfillment of our most profound needs.

Recognizing that He crafted the vast cosmos (Hebrews 1:2) should give us immense confidence. The same hands that shaped the stars are the same hands that were nailed to the cross, ensuring our redemption.

Realizing that He radiates God's glory (Hebrews 1:3) means that by looking to Jesus, we see the very face of God. And by His sacrifice, He purified us from our sins, offering us not just a second chance, but a new life, free from the penalty of sin and its power over us.

In Him, we have an anchor for our souls, firm and secure. So, I invite you today: If you haven't yet placed your trust in Jesus, consider His unmatched supremacy. Believe in His death and resurrection. Experience the power of His redemption. And if you already know Him, let the truths of Hebrews 1 renew your commitment to live for His glory, cherishing the redemption He's given you, and anticipating the day when we will be free from even the presence of sin.

In Christ, we are delivered from the penalty of our sins, empowered to overcome its power in our daily lives, and given the hope of one day being liberated from its very presence. Embrace this hope, and let Jesus be your everything.

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Bibliography

"The Exegesis and Application of Hebrews 1: A Comprehensive Study for Sermon Preparation." Assistant, Chat. 2023.