Bible Study - Hebrews 1
S – ...but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.
Hebrews 1:2–4 ESV
O – Whereas the revelation of the OT era came in a wide variety of forms over time, God’s ultimate revelation was given through his Son, Jesus (see 2:3–4). • as an inheritance: Christ is God’s royal heir; the author probably had Ps 2:8 in mind.
1:3 The word translated radiates, found only here in the NT, includes an idea of intense brightness. God’s own glory is the glorious manifestation of his presence (Exod 16:7; 33:18; Isa 40:5). The Son’s glory is an expression of God’s glory—the Son of God manifests the person and presence of God (Luke 9:32; John 1:14; 2:11; 17:5; Rom 8:17). • The term translated expresses, used only here in the NT, was used of a distinguishing mark imprinted on an object such as a coin. The Son gives a clear picture of the very character of God (John 1:18; Phil 2:6; Col 1:15). • the mighty power of his command (literally his powerful word): God’s word is the powerful, dynamic force that created and governs the world (11:3; Ps 33:6–11). Elsewhere the Son is called “the Word of God” (Rev 19:13; see also John 1:1–18). • cleansed us from our sins: See 9:11–10:18. • he sat down: This clause is an allusion to Ps 110:1 (see also 1:13; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2), which foretold the exaltation of Christ after his suffering (see Matt 22:44; Acts 2:33; 1 Cor 15:25). The right hand of God indicates high honor, rank, and position (see Ps 16:11; 45:4, 9; 80:17; 1 Kgs 2:19).
1:4 The Son’s exalted position shows that the Son is far greater than the angels in status or rank.
New Living Translation Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 2008), Heb 1:2–4.
A – Want to know what God is like? Look at Jesus.
He isn’t a reflection of God. He’s the radiance of God. He isn’t a rough sketch. He’s the exact imprint. Jesus is God in human flesh. He came to earth. He died on a cross for our sins. He rose three days later. And then He sat down at the right hand of the Father.
Sat down. The work was finished.
Sometimes I wonder, if we could see Jesus face to face today, would we reverence God more? But Hebrews says God has already spoken through His Son. Clearly. Completely. Finally. We’re not missing anything. His words, His actions, His teaching, and His heart are all right there. They transformed a handful of disciples. They changed the world. And they changed my life.
So here’s the biggest question you’ll ever answer: What do you believe about Jesus?
Jesus answered it Himself. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
Everything rests on that.
R – Heavenly Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, one God, we praise and worship You in Your holiness. Thank You for Jesus, who died for our sins and opened the way for us to come to You. We stand in awe of Your power, Your grace, and Your love. Thank You. Amen.
