The Christology of Hebrews 3: Why it essential to consider Jesus!

From the diary of a faithful scribbler, the Christology of Hebrews continues. Chapter 3 opens with a point of application, “Therefore, consider Jesus our Apostle and High Priest,” v.1.

Why is it indispensable to consider Jesus? Most dictionaries define consider as, “To think carefully about something or someone and be drawn toward a course of action.” Here, the author tells us to consider:

1. The humanity of our Savior, v.1a.
2. Jesus the Apostle-send under authority, to reveal the Father to us and to redeem us, v.1b.
3. Jesus the High Priest-who brings us up to God, v.1; 2:17.
4. Jesus made us holy brothers and sisters, 3:1; 2:10-11.
5. Jesus made us partakers in the heavenly calling, 3:1. Certainly, our calling comes from and culminates in heaven.
6. Jesus superior to Moses-For a Jew, Moses was the greatest man in history but the author reminds us that Jesus was and still is superior to Moses;
1. He was faithful to God and never failed even once unlike Moses, v.2.
2. He is worthy more glory, v.3
7. Jesus is God, v.4. He is the builder of all things, 2:3.
8. Jesus is a Son and heir over God’s house, v.6; 1:2b; and we are His house, v.6.

The author gives us reasons why we should consider Jesus and be drawn to make a decision to accept Him to be a personal Lord and Saviour. Have you considered Him?

The second part of the Christology of Hebrews 3 is a practical application which runs from v. 7-19. Having known about Jesus thus far, the author makes a clarion call:

1. Don’t harden your heart but surrender to Jesus, 3:8a, 15.

-          Israelites refused to trust God, (Num. 20:1-3) and because of their unbelief and rebellion, God condemned the generation that left Egypt to die in the wilderness, (Num. 14:22-23, 28-32). They faced judgment that culminated in 40 years of wandering in the desert, (Heb 3:9-11).

-          Certainly, those who refuse to consider (reject) Jesus will not enter God’s rest.

2. Don’t be like that generation that perished in the wilderness because of their unbelief, Heb 3:12-15.

-          Unbelief is such a serious sin and it is evil. It is unwillingness to trust God and it is rooted in deceit, v.12.

-          It is of paramount importance and a personal responsibility to surround yourself with Christians who will exhort you to trust God, v.13.

3. Be careful not to lose faith and rebel against God, v.16-17.

-          Israelites began well; they crossed the Red Sea and sung a song of praise to God. Days later they rebelled and God condemned them to die in the wilderness except Joshua and Caleb. Be careful that you don’t begin well yet fall short to persevere in faith, v. 18-19

4. The key to enter God’s rest is FAITH cantered on the person and the work of Jesus Christ, (Heb 2:17).

My friend, remember, in these last days God speaks to us by His Son, Jesus Christ. Have you heard Him knock at the door of your heart? How have you responded? Do not harden your heart. Do not let unbelief hinder you from entering God’s rest. Believe in Jesus and be saved.

Yours faithful scribbler,

NzakuNashipae