A New Revelation: The Son

For many people, the best way to get into a swimming pool is not gradually wading into deeper waters but just jumping right in. That is what the anonymous author of Hebrews does in the opening prologue. Without giving the name of our subject, the letter immediately launches into the Son’s superior roles, which will be developed throughout the rest of the book.

First, we are told of Christ’s prophetic role. Although God spoke previously through various prophets, now “in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son” (v. 2). In other words, God’s message through His Son is not the first time He has spoken to His people. It is, however, the final and definitive message, the culmination of all that God had been saying in the old covenant.

Second, we are told of Christ’s priestly role. This Son “had provided purification for sins” (v. 3). The original readers of these words would have understood the entire Israelite sacrificial system of cleansing and purification. Now, says the author, the ultimate purification of sins comes through God’s Son.

Third, we are told of Christ’s kingly role. Having accomplished His priestly role, the Son “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven” (v. 3). Everyone in the ancient world knew that the right hand of the king symbolized the highest position, equal in honor and authority to the monarch himself. This divine position at the right hand of the King of the universe belongs to the Son.

More than this, however, we are also told of Christ’s divinity. God’s Son has not only made the universe and “sustain[s] all things by his powerful word”, the book of Hebrews assures us that the Son is “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being” (v. 3).

Pray with Us

Today, we’d like to thank God for the faithful leaders of Moody, our board of trustees. Join us in praying for their service as they bring their professional and ministry experience, skills and time to Moody Bible Institute.