First Baptist Church
Fairbanks, Alaska
805 Sixth Avenue
(907) 456-4923
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Fairbanks, Alaska 805 Sixth Avenue (907) 456-4923 |
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“Sermon from an Unknown Pastor” A Study of the Book of Hebrews (Part 1) Hebrews 1-2 Mark Howdeshell (April 20, 2008) Hebrews 2:1 We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. Introduction We do not know who the author of the book of Hebrews was. There are many guesses….but no general consensus. We’re going to take the next several weeks and learn from this unknown author. Many parts of Hebrews are written in such a way that they are a sermon unto themselves. Let’s take a look. How many of you believe in angels? What about angels today? Do they exist? Do you interact with them? Would you know it if you did? What is their place in the spiritual chain of command? The Meat of the Message Heb 1:1-4 1:1 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 3 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. 4 So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.
1. Past vs. Present a. Past—(Old Testament) i. Spoke through the prophets 1. Visions 2. Miracles a. Red Sea b. Staff turning into a snake and back again 3. Dreams ii. Abraham, Moses, Elijah, Samuel, David b. Present—(New Testament until today) i. Spoke through the Son (including the Holy Spirit) 2. The Son a. Heir of all things i. Jesus appointed ii. We become heirs through the blood of Jesus Titus 3:77 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. b. Through whom He made the universe i. Jesus made the universe Col 1:16-20 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. ii. Made to worship Him c. Radiance of God’s glory i. Radiance 1. To emit or produce 2. Does not mean reflect! ii. God’s glory 1. All of God’s best attributes are represented in this one word 2. Love, patience, kindness, grace, mercy, etc iii. Jesus radiates or emits all of the qualities of God for everyone to experience and hopefully, imitate d. Exact representation of His being i. Have you ever wondered about what an “Autobiography by God” would be like ii. The answer is simple………….look at Jesus iii. God chose to represent Himself in this manner e. Sustains all things by His powerful Word i. Refers to the command authority given to Jesus ii. He speaks………and it happens 1. He spoke the universe into existence 2. He commanded the winds and the waves 3. HE COMMANDS US…………and we don’t listen!! f. Provided purification for our sins i. He chose to be our sacrificial offering to cover our sins ii. His blood settles it once for all g. Sat at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven i. Took his rightful place next to God 3. The Angels a. BECAME superior to the angels i. While He was on earth, He was just below the angels like we are ii. He became far better by name---the Son of God b. Angels i. Sometimes referred to as sons of God (not the SON of God) ii. Made to be servants of God and the church iii. Sent to serve those who will inherit salvation
Heb 1:14 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?
Heb 2:1-4 We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2 For if the message spoken by angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, 3 how shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. 4 God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. 4. Pay Attention!! a. The easiest way to drift away is to let you mind wander!! b. We cannot ignore the Truth and expect it to go away. c. The Truth is alive around us every day. The Bottom Line The Scripture is quite clear of the hierarchy of Jesus Christ. The fact that He made the universe, and everything in it, and that He has been appointed as its heir solidifies the role of Jesus. He continues to radiate God’s glory and sits at His right hand. Yet, despite His position, His authority, His responsibility, He loves us and knows us by name. He has sent His angels to minister to us, protect us, guide us, and serve us. We are called to imitate Him. How do you compare? Invitation Have you taken Jesus for granted? Is He someone you take out of the closet on Sunday morning when you go to church or is He someone that lives, breathes, and consumes your whole being? He doesn’t demand part of our lives, He demands all of it. Submitting to Him is crucial to a life of peace, love, and joy. If you haven’t done this, take this opportunity this morning to come to the altar and pray for guidance, direction, and help from Jesus. He will answer prayers that honor Him. Honor Him with your prayers. |
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