The superiority of Jesus

'In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 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. 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. So He became as much superior to the angels as the name He has inherited is superior to theirs.' (Hebrews 1.1-4, NIV.)

The first chapter of Hebrews describes in detail how Jesus Christ fulfils the prophecies of the Old Testament. In the past God spoke to His people by various means: Isaiah, in visions; Jacob, in dreams; whilst to Abraham and Moses, God spoke personally. But now God speaks through Jesus. Jesus is the fulfilment and culmination of God’s revelation. When we know Jesus, we have all we need to be saved and have a perfect relationship with God.

This chapter links God’s saving power with His creative power. In other words, the power that brought the universe into being, and that keeps it operating, is the very same power that cleanses our sins. No sin is too big for the ruler of the universe to handle. He can, and will forgive us, when we come to Him through His Son. That Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father means that the work of salvation was complete. Christ’s sacrifice was final.

‘In the beginning, Lord, You laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed. But You remain the same, and Your years will never end.’ (Hebrews 1:10-12, NIV)

In a changing world, Jesus is our only security. Whatever may happen, Christ remains steadfast. When we trust Him, we stand on the firmest foundation. But what does it mean that Christ is changeless? It means that His character will never change. He is always faithful, merciful, and gracious. Jesus will always help you when you need it. And He will always offer forgiveness, when we repent.