Seeing God Through His Son
Reflection on Hebrews 1:1-4
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.” — Hebrews 1:1-4 (NIV)
This opening passage of Hebrews sets the tone for the entire book, emphasizing the supremacy of Christ in God’s redemptive plan. It contrasts how God revealed Himself in the past through prophets with how He now fully reveals Himself through His Son. The writer highlights three key aspects of Christ’s identity: Heir of all things, Creator of the universe, and Sustainer of all life. Let’s explore these themes:
1. God’s Final Word – His Son
Throughout the Old Testament, God revealed Himself progressively through prophets, visions, and the Law. But in Christ, God gives His ultimate revelation. Jesus is not merely a messenger; He is God’s final word. In John 14:9, Jesus says, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father,” underscoring His role as the complete revelation of God’s nature and purpose.
This reminds us that if we want to know God’s heart, His character, and His will, we must look to Jesus. He is the fulfillment of all the promises and prophecies made throughout Scripture.
2. Radiance of God’s Glory and Exact Representation of His Being
The phrase “the radiance of God’s glory” portrays Christ as the visible manifestation of the invisible God. Just as light radiates from the sun, Jesus radiates God’s essence. The term “exact representation” (Greek: charaktēr) conveys the idea of an imprint or engraving that perfectly mirrors the original. This echoes Colossians 1:15, where Paul describes Jesus as “the image of the invisible God.”
Jesus doesn’t merely reflect God’s glory; He embodies it. In His life, death, and resurrection, we see God’s holiness, mercy, justice, and love perfectly revealed.
3. Sustainer of All Things
The passage states that Jesus “sustains all things by his powerful word.” This speaks to His ongoing involvement in creation. He is not a distant, passive deity but actively holds all things together (Colossians 1:17). This truth provides great comfort for believers—knowing that the same Word who spoke creation into existence continues to uphold it by His power.
4. The Work of Purification and His Exaltation
The phrase “after he had provided purification for sins” refers to Jesus’ finished work on the cross. Unlike the Old Testament sacrifices that had to be repeated continually, Jesus offered a once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10:12-14). After completing His mission of redemption, He “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.”
Sitting down signifies the completion of His priestly work. His position at God’s right hand symbolizes His authority, power, and supremacy over all creation, including the angels. This fulfills Psalm 110:1, where David proclaims, “The Lord says to my lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’”
Application for Today
• Jesus as the ultimate revelation: We are invited to listen to God by looking to His Son. In a world filled with competing voices, we are reminded that Jesus is God’s clearest and final word.
• Confidence in His sustaining power: No matter what uncertainties we face, we can trust that Jesus holds all things together. He is both Creator and Sustainer.
• Rest in His finished work: We no longer strive to earn our salvation because Jesus has provided purification for sins. His work is complete, and we are invited to rest in the grace He offers.
• Worship the exalted Christ: The exaltation of Jesus calls us to live lives of worship, recognizing His supremacy in all things.
Prayer
Lord, we praise You for revealing Yourself fully through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for sustaining us with Your powerful word and for completing the work of our purification. Help us to rest in Your finished work and worship You as the exalted King. May we listen attentively to Your voice and live lives that reflect Your glory. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment