Jesus, the Exact Representation of God’s Being
“1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors 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 also 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.”
Hebrews 1:1–4 clearly reveals Christ’s divinity and supremacy, serving as an introduction to the entire message of Hebrews. These verses emphasize that Jesus is incomparable to prophets, angels, or creation itself. While God spoke in earlier times through prophets, in these last days He has spoken through His Son, through whom the entire universe was created, and who is Heir of all things. This pronouncement declares that Jesus is not merely an exceptional human but the very essence of God, central to both creation and salvation.
Jesus upholds all things by His powerful word, and it is He who accomplished purification for sins. In the Old Testament, sacrifices and offerings were required for the forgiveness of sins, but Jesus, once and for all, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice, securing eternal atonement. This completed work of salvation presents Jesus as the One who perfectly fulfills the roles of High Priest, Temple, and Sacrifice. Now He is seated at the right hand of God, ruling with all authority.
Hebrews 1:4 describes Jesus as far superior to the angels. As God’s Son, His excellence is beyond comparison. Jesus is not a created being like angels; rather, He personally accomplished God’s redemption and bears the very nature of God. He is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being—meaning that God’s essence and glory are fully revealed in Jesus. He is the God we worship and, at the same time, the flawless human we seek to emulate.
By faith, we can trust in Jesus and devote our lives to Him, offering up bold prayers despite our weaknesses. Jesus is the mediator who cleanses us and reconciles us to God. May we draw on His reign and power as we recommit ourselves to walking the path of the gospel.
Prayer: Lord, we praise You, who purifies us from sin and reigns in glory at the right hand of God. When discouragement or weakness creeps into our lives, we fix our eyes on You, “the author and perfecter of our faith.” We believe that as we look upon Your glorious light, rather than being buried by our circumstances, our inner being and our vision for life are renewed. We ask You to bless all who pray this morning, guide the church, and watch over each life. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)
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