Hebrews 1:1-2
In the past, God spoke to our forefathers by the prophets at many times and in many ways. 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.
Applying God’s Word for today: Receiving the message from the source.
How do we know who God is? Throughout history, God has given us the Word, carried along by the Old Testament prophets. They shared God’s Word to course-correct His drifting people. Later, in the New Testament, the apostles, as firsthand witnesses, recorded Jesus’ words and teachings. So, Jesus, being united with the Father, shared His thoughts. Jesus’ thoughts were God’s thoughts. However, our sinful natures taint our thoughts, making it hard to imagine being connected to God in this way.
Through the prophets and Jesus, God revealed His will: He desires that all people be with Him in heaven. But we are not robots; He forces no one to believe. Anyone can reject God’s love and mercy. Jesus came to earth to share and teach us about God’s gifts. We receive these gifts by grace through faith in Christ. As Jesus spoke, His words were not secondhand but straight from God Himself. Jesus showed us that God truly wants to forgive all people. He went to the cross carrying the world’s sins. He died so we could live; this is for all people, but we are saved only by God’s grace through faith in His Son. The Holy Spirit begins faith in us through the gospel message and the sacraments.
Trust the love God has for you; Jesus came to share this with you. Then share this firsthand message with someone who does not know Jesus and let the Holy Spirit work in their hearts to bring them to faith.
Dear Lord God, You sent Your Son to teach us directly. He was with You from the beginning, creating this world, and He knows You. Forgive us our sins when we fail to see Jesus as He truly is. Guide Your Spirit to work in our hearts through Your Word, so that as we live in the last days, we will be confident in Your love and in the salvation which Jesus won for us. Declare us righteous for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
As the writer of Hebrews wrote, “In these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son.” May God work in your heart so that you know His desire for you to be with Him forever in heaven.