Scripture:
Hebrews 1:1-2
Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.
Observation:
As the writer of Hebrews starts he begins the story of Christ as a continuation of the narrative of God’s dealing with His people. First God used the prophets. Many of them over hundreds of years speaking to the people on behalf of God. However, in Christ, God has spoken clearly. He has revealed His presence and perfection through Christ. Jesus not only had a message from God, He was the presence of God before mankind. He not only had a message, but more importantly, accomplished a task that no project has done before. Instead of addressing and confronting sin, Jesus conquered it through the cross and resurrection. He then sat down at the right hand of God, victorious and with full authority.
Application:
As we study the prophets of the Old Testament, we must see and experience their message through the lens of Christ. The message and mission of Jesus is the completion of all other messages and missions. A few things…
-If I want to see God, I just have to look to Jesus. There is no other biblical character that is a clearer depiction of the the creator than Jesus. He is the creator in flesh. (If my image of God is different than Jesus, something is wrong)
-The last days are upon us. Though this passage is 2000 years old, the truth of the last days is still reality. I should not be awaiting another prophet. All I need to know, believe and experience is in Christ.
-The biblical narrative points to Christ. By attempting to apply the teachings and warning of the Old Testament prophet without the clarity the gospel brings, I will be misguided and lead those I am influencing in the wrong direction. All scripture is inspired by God, however all direction, warning and challenges are to be viewed and applied through the gospel. Our whole faith is “in Christ”, therefore the understanding and application of the scripture must be in Christ or we run the risk of conforming the gospel into the image of every other religion.
Prayer:
In Christ the message of the prophets is clarified. In Christ we have victory and the gospel. May I see, study, apply and teach the Word through the power and authority of Jesus and the gospel. Thank you Father for the gospel! May I never compromise.