Journal Heb 3 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation are mine)
Scripture: “Therefore, holy brothers—you who share in a heavenly calling—consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession, who was faithful to him who appointed him (just as Moses also was faithful in all God’s house).
For Jesus has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses—as much more glory as the builder of a house has more honor than the house itself. (For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.)
Now, Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that were to be spoken of later, but Christ is faithful over God’s house as a son.
And we are his house, if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope.” Heb 3:1-6
Observation: “Consider Jesus…” Now, how do I do that? Do I do that?
Analysis: I was thinking last night about this chapter of Hebrews, and it occurs to me that I have seen this before. Not specifically, but generally through the letters of Paul and John and now the writer of Hebrews.
What am I seeing? Each of the writers presents a basis on what is the foundation on what I believe.
If I look and consider the scriptures carefully, I see the broad statements of:
- Here is God in all his splendor and wonder;
- Here is his Son in whom he invested the responsibility of all things;
- Here are the reasons that my faith is valid, and;
- Therefore, do and don’t be afraid.
This is very condensed, and I see some fault—it could be tighter—but is essentially true. And it leads me to…
Consider Jesus.
I look at everything I have ever promoted: Why worship? Because Jesus is worthy. Why is there a church? Because Jesus is worthy. Why do I obey the Word of God, the scriptures? Because Jesus is worthy. In a few more verses, chapter 3 reminds me to encourage others so that sin will not deceive them. How to encourage? Because Jesus is worthy.
The great commission, the believers mandate to witness. Why? Because Jesus is worthy.
I boast in my hope of salvation. Why? Because Jesus is worthy. Every benefit I receive from the Atoning work of Jesus is based upon the worthiness of Jesus to be able to provide that.
The throng of heaven described in Revelation is focused upon “Worthy is the Lamb.” The writer of Hebrews from the first word to the last is about “Consider Jesus, who alone is worthy for all praise and glory.”
Is “Considering Jesus” the drumbeat of my soul?
Prayer: Father, if it isn’t, then I really need to change my mind about things.
I realize I can get tied up in Scripture reading, studying and singing, talking, and thinking about many of the things you give me to renew my mind about, to make obedience in, etc. But if You, Lord, are not the foundational, considered, and acknowledged core of all I do, what am I?
Make me a fierce disciple, Lord. AMEN