Tag: Hebrews

From Thick Darkness to Radiant Light: The Journey of Divine Revelation

In our times of confusion and doubt, when the presence of God feels obscured by the clouds of uncertainty, we hold fast to the truth that in Christ, God has revealed Himself, stepping out from behind the veil.

Brent Pollard

“Then Solomon said, ‘The Lord has said that He would dwell in the thick cloud.’” (2 Chronicles 6.1—the KJV says “thick darkness”)

Have you ever faced the awe-inspiring challenge of grasping the divine purpose, sensing His nearness during trials, or unraveling the intricacies of His character amidst life’s challenges? If that’s the case, you stand alongside the faithful and those who have earnestly sought truth throughout history.

The God Who Dwells in the Thick Cloud

When Solomon dedicated the impressive Temple in Jerusalem, he articulated a profound theological truth we often overlook. Before acknowledging the divine presence in the newly constructed sanctuary, Solomon first reminded the gathered worshippers that the Lord had declared, “He would dwell in the thick cloud” (2 Chronicles 6.1—the KJV states that God resided in “thick darkness”).

This statement wasn’t merely poetic language. Solomon pointed to a profound reality regarding the nature of divine revelation in the narrative of Israel’s past. During the Exodus journey, the Lord revealed His glory through a pillar of cloud. At Mount Sinai, “Moses approached the thick cloud where God was” (Exodus 20.21). The cloud was more than a convenient visual symbol; it embodied the profound mystery of divine revelation.

God reveals Himself but remains partially concealed. God makes Himself known yet retains His mystery. God comes near while transcending complete human comprehension.

The cloud embodied a dual nature, serving as both a source of revelation and a veil of concealment at once. Even as the Almighty resided with His people, an essential mystery lingered about Him, a sacred obscurity that no human intellect could fathom.

The ancient Israelites faced this theological tension in their daily lives. The divine presence resided in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, yet it was concealed by veils and accessed through sacred rituals. Prophets, sacred teachings, and divine interventions in history expressed His revelation, always conveying the understanding that something greater exists beyond the visible or the comprehensible.

The Revelation in Christ

But the story doesn’t end in darkness or shadows.

“God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son…He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature…” (Hebrews 1.1-3)

The New Testament unfolds an incredible progression in the story of divine revelation. In the Savior, the Almighty reveals Himself, emerging from obscurity. The heavy shadows yield themselves to brilliant illumination. What He had once hidden, we now see and understand more clearly, inspiring hope and transformation.

This truth doesn’t mean all mystery vanishes—God remains greater than our understanding—but something fundamental has changed. No longer do we approach God through shadows and symbols alone. In Jesus, we encounter “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1.15), the one who could rightfully say, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14.9).

The author of Hebrews carefully constructs this theological progression. Where God once spoke “in many portions and in many ways” (including through clouds and darkness), He now speaks through His Son. Where God once concealed His glory, now we see “the radiance of His (God’s) glory.” Where God’s nature was once partially obscured, we now have “the exact representation of His nature.”

Living in the Light

What does this mean for us today?

It unveils that we serve a God who longs to be understood and embraced. From the smoking mountain of Sinai to the humble manger of Bethlehem, we witness the unfolding of God’s revelation, moving from shadow to substance and from cloud to clarity. This revelation is not distant or exclusive, but accessible and inclusive to all who seek it.

It means that although we continue to “see through a glass, darkly” in numerous aspects (1 Corinthians 13.12 KJV), we possess a profound revelation that sheds light on all else in Christ. While the shadows teach us valuable lessons, we now understand them thanks to the light of complete revelation.

God beckons us to a profound closeness with Him, though He dwells in unapproachable light (1 Timothy 6.16). Thus, the veil has been torn asunder (Mark 15.38). God pierced the heavy veil of darkness separating us from that Light. As we traverse the valleys of shadow and face moments of uncertainty, we find solace in the unfolding of divine revelation. The Almighty, who once resided in the depths of dense clouds, has come close to us. Despite lingering darkness, the light still shines (John 1.5).

In our times of confusion and doubt, when the presence of God feels obscured by the clouds of uncertainty, we hold fast to the truth that in Christ, God has revealed Himself, stepping out from behind the veil. The transition from darkness to light transcends mere biblical narrative; it embodies the essence of our spiritual journey as we grow in our understanding of Him daily.

“For God, who said, ‘Light shall shine out of darkness,’ is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6).

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Five Things Jesus Teaches Us About Temptation

Neal Pollard

Jesus knew temptation. The writer of Hebrews makes that point about Him in assuring us He, as our High Priest, knows just what we are going through in this life (2:18; 4:15). His suffering allows Him to sympathize. I am comforted to know that He understands, since He is like me (Heb. 2:17). Luke records this significant and pivotal moment in Jesus’ life before He begins His public ministry (Luke 4:1-13). It gives me necessary insight into who Jesus is, and it helps me fight the common battle against the enticements of my flesh, my eyes, and my pride.

TEMPTATION STRIKES THOSE IN A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. To be clear, temptation strikes “every man” (Heb. 4:15). But, sometimes we conclude that it’s not so bad or so frequent for the spiritually strong. Here is the perfect Son of God, described as full of the Holy Spirit and led by the Spirit (1), who encounters the tempter (2). Being spiritually strong can help make navigating temptation easier than it is for those who live according to the flesh (Rom. 8:5-14), but no one was closer to God and more spiritually healthy than Jesus as He walked the earth. How helpful to consider Paul’s warning here: “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall” (1 Cor. 10:12). 

TEMPTATION STRIKES IN PREDICTABLE AREAS. John classifies temptation into three major categories: “the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life” (1 Jn.2:16). Methodical Luke lists Jesus’ temptation in that very order (cf. Mat. 4:1-11). The serpent, approaching Eve, must have appealed to these very areas at the beginning (Gen. 3:6). The devil does not have to get more complicated than that because these avenues are overwhelmingly effective for him. Though this and other passages reveals the evil one’s intentions and efforts, we are fully accountable for how we respond to temptation (Jas. 1:13-15). We must take responsibility for how we handle temptation. 

TEMPTATION STRIKES WHEN WE ARE VULNERABLE. Jesus has gone an unfathomable 40 days without food when He encounters the devil (2ff). The devil goes straight for this susceptible area. Think back to times when you haven’t gotten proper rest, you faced stress and pressure, you were sick or felt poorly, and other trying times. These can easily become doors we open to sin. All of us will experience physical and emotional weakness. We must be aware that these lead to spiritual exposure. 

TEMPTATION CAN MAKE US CALL WHAT WE KNOW INTO QUESTION. Twice, the devil uses conditional statements to try and create doubt. First, he says, “If You are the Son of God” (3). He called Jesus’ identity into question. Then, he says, “if You worship me” (7). He seeks to get Jesus to question His loyalty. It was not a matter of what Jesus intellectually knew, but Jesus dwelled in the flesh (John 1:14; Heb. 2:14). Be aware that temptation will cause us to question things we know, too. That includes our exalted identity and our true motivation.

TEMPTATION IS THWARTED BY AN OMNIPOTENT TOOL. Jesus wins His battles with the devil and temptation by leaning on truth. There are 86 quotations of Deuteronomy (the second giving of the Law of Moses) in the New Testament, and Jesus quotes this book in reference to each of the devil’s temptations (8:3; 6:13; 6:16). Proper knowledge and handling of Scripture helps even when enemies of truth, even the devil, try to misuse Scripture against us (as he does with Jesus, misapplying Psalm 91:11-12). Scripture is God’s own weapon, given to us not to cut and maim others but to fight off temptation and fend off the biggest threats to our faith and soul (Heb. 4:12; Eph. 6:17). 

It is wonderful to contemplate a day in which temptation will be permanently past-tense (cf. Rev. 21:1ff; 1 Cor. 15:55-58). Until then, we benefit so much from seeing how Jesus coped with the bane of temptation. It also helps us appreciate what He endured in order to give us salvation. 

Rational Faith

Gary Pollard
  1. Universal constants (ie. truth) exist. They must, or civilization would not be able to sustain itself. 
  2. Only one religious system has a flawless narrative from beginning to end: Christianity. The collection of sacred writings we call the bible is uncanny in its preservation and authenticity. No other ancient document has ever held up to academic scrutiny like the bible has. 
  3. While no organization is perfect, none have positively impacted the planet like Christianity has. Not even close. No civilization has been as functional as those which have been built on Judeo-Christian principles. Literacy is as wide-spread as it is because of the bible. 
  4. Evidence for the existence of a higher power is everywhere. If the bible — which contains a supernaturally infallible narrative — claims that the God we serve is that higher power, it is only rational to serve that God. 

“Faith is what makes real the things we hope for. It is proof of what we cannot see. God was pleased with the people who lived a long time ago because they had faith like this. Faith helps us understand that God created the whole world by his command. This means the things we see were created by something that cannot be seen” (Hb 11.1-3). 

We were not there 2,000 years ago when Jesus walked the earth. We were not there when he created the earth. We were not there when he came back to life. We were not there to witness any miracles. 

But what has been left to us is a series of compelling proofs, such as the complexity and order of the universe from the cosmic scale to the microscopic scale. We have a collection of ancient documents which have been preserved to a degree that no other ancient documents have, and which contain no narrative contradictions. We have a system of belief that, when followed properly, is the most functional way to live. We will not see with our own eyes until Jesus returns. Until then we are satisfied with the evidence we have, and we are confident in who God is and that he exists. This is the very definition of faith. 

The Meat

Gary Pollard

There were some members of the early church who had difficulty accepting some of the basic teachings of Christianity. The Hebrews writer told them, “We have many things to tell you about this. But it’s hard to explain because you’ve stopped trying to understand. You’ve had enough time by now that you should be teachers. But you need someone to teach you again the first lessons of God’s teaching. You still need the teaching that is like milk. … Anyone who lives on this is still a baby and not able to understand much about living right. But solid food is for people who have grown up. From their experience they’ve learned to see the difference between good and evil” (Hb 5.11-14). 

What’s the basic stuff that prevents us from being mature? 

6.2 — Baptisms. This is probably Jewish washings and other irrelevant customs from the old system. They should’ve been past this by now. 

6.2 — This one doesn’t really apply to us today, but “laying hands on people”, usually to give them God’s blessing or supernatural power. 

6.2 — The resurrection of the dead and final judgment. 

These basics should be a given for every Christian. The Hebrews writer’s audience had “had enough time by now to become teachers” only a couple decades after Jesus’s work. It’s been about 2,000 years for us. We have no excuse to be stuck in the basics! 

So what should we be doing? 

Hebrews 7-10 — Understand that Jesus is far superior to any other system of belief, he’s in the highest position of power in the universe, he lives to serve as our perfect high priest, the old system (Old Law) is irrelevant now (8.13), that Jesus’s sacrifice cleared humanity of how the Old Law convicted us of sin (9.15), understand that his return means rescue for those of us who are waiting for him (9.28), to think about and encourage each other to show love and do good things for other people (10.24-39), and to never lose our confidence in the power of our king (10-11). 

This is a very simplified list for the sake of brevity, but a mature Christian tries hard to be like Jesus in how they live. They don’t give in when pressured by circumstance to deny Jesus through bad behavior. They accept suffering with grace and patience. Their confidence in who Jesus is and what he will do for us is never severely shaken. Their love for Christian family compels them to do good for them, and to encourage them by living like Jesus. 

Jesus Is Better (II)

Gary Pollard

Humans have a tendency to project their own weaknesses onto others. We are all guilty of this. Sometimes that carries over to our prayers — can Jesus forgive me, even with how I’ve failed him over and over? Sometimes we find it hard to forgive others, so we may assume Jesus feels the same when we beg his forgiveness. We’re only forgiven to the extent that we forgive others, but it seems we (that includes me) project our human weakness onto Jesus. 

Jesus is still human, but perfect. He’s human, but at God’s right hand. He’s human, so he understands and feels for our weakness. “We have a better high priest, one who understands our weakness, even though he never sinned.” Jesus gets it! It must’ve been a miserable few decades in a constant war with himself. He was tempted every single way that we are, but never made a mistake. 

How many people do you know who are tempted by everything? Most of us have a few weaknesses, and those are hard enough to manage. But imagine being tempted by every single thing that had ever or would ever tempt a human! Jesus understands, even though he never sinned. That’s our perfect high priest! He can say to the father, “I understand how difficult [your temptation here] is to face.” 

Jesus is better because he knows what we go through, he’s experienced it all, and he never once made a mistake. He didn’t do that to make us feel inadequate — though we are all inadequate by ourselves — but to help us when we fall. Jesus is better because he’s a high priest who can empathize with every human on the planet, and he lives to do just that for us! 

Genesis: These Are The Generations (XV)

War And (The King Of) Peace (14:1-24)

Neal Pollard

Genesis 14 is more than a Sunday morning Scripture-reader’s nightmare (though the first ten verses would intimate the most golden-tongued!). We are introduced to an obscure, enigmatic character whom David and the writer of Hebrews will compare to Christ. However, what is the background of this King of Salem and his important encounter with Abram?

There is a local war around the Salt Sea, “four kings against five” (9). The cause of the conflict is the rebellion of the kings of the valley (Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela) against Chedorlaomer, who had conquered all the nations in the region–the Rephaim, the Zuzim, the Emim, the Horites, the Amalekites, and the Amorites (4-7). The confederation of the valley kings “arrayed for battle against” Chedorlaomer and his allies (1) “in the valley of Siddim” (8). The kings of Sodom and Gomorrah, Bera and Birsha, died in the tarpits of Siddim as they fled from the invaders’ army, and the rest of the army of the five kings fled to the hill country (10).

Chedorlaomer and his allies plunder all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah and take Lot, the women, and the people of his house along with his possessions (11-12,16). An escapee tells Abram what happens, and the patriarch musters his allies and his own personal army to get his nephew and his house back safely (13-15). He has a battle plan, dividing his forces and attacking at night, and they defeat the invader in what is modern-day Syria (15-16). On multiple occasions, I have visited the ruins at Dan and have seen the so-called “Abraham Gate.” It dates back at least as far as Abraham’s day, almost 2000 years before Christ. 

(My photo of the “Abraham Gate,” March 2018)

After rescuing Lot and his house and goods, Abram is met by a priest named Melchizedek (18). The Holy Spirit, through the author of Hebrews, uses Genesis 14:17-20 and Psalm 119:4, and this one incident with Abraham to drive home an incredibly powerful point. Jesus is a High Priest, not like the Levites who descended from Aaron, but like this obscure figure, Melchizedek. 

The Bible uses a literary device called an antitype. “From the Greek antitupos, which occurs in Heb. 9:24 and 1 Pet. 3:21, where the AV translates it ‘figure.’ An antitype is the substance of which a type is the shadow, or the fulfilment of that which the type foreshadowed” (Cairns, Alan. Dictionary of Theological Terms 2002: 33). The antitype is always the greater; the type is always lesser and represents in some way the greater. So, Melchizedek is a type of Christ. He himself was greater than the Levitical priesthood in the ways we read in Hebrews 7, but the specific attributes we read about Melchizedek in this chapter are more fully and greatly found in Jesus.

What are the specific types? 

  • His position (18; Heb. 7:1). He is the king and priest of the Most High God. As king, he is king of righteousness and king of peace (2). 
  • His preeminence (20; Heb. 7:2,4-5). Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek, signifying the greater prominence of the priest over the patriarch.
  • His perpetuity (Psa. 110:4; Heb. 7:3). “Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he remains a priest perpetually.” None of Melchizedek’s ancestors or descendants filled this role, so in that way “he remains a priest perpetually.”
  • His purpose (19; Heb. 7:6-7). Melchizedek blessed the one who had the promises, an indication of his greater position and authority.
  • His precursory place (Heb. 7:8-11). Melchizedek lived many generations before Aaron, through whom the Levitical priesthood descended. Aaron was still in “Abraham’s loins,” meaning that Abraham did not have children yet. Much later, he would sire Isaac, who beget Jacob, etc., until finally Aaron was born through this genealogy.

In the way that Melchizedek served as greater than Levi, Jesus more fully and greatly serves as greater than Levi. If it were a math problem, we would say Levi < Melchizedek < Christ. Obviously, then, Levi < Christ. The writer of Hebrews, in chapter seven, draws some conclusions about this type of Christ. Because Christ is the antitype of Melchizedek,

  • It makes sense that perfection comes from His priesthood rather than the Levitical priesthood of Judaism (11).
  • There needed to be a change of laws (from Moses’ to Christ’s)(12).
  • It is right that this greater High Priest comes from a different tribe in which none had or could have served as priest (13-14).
  • Christ serves as priest “not on the basis of a law of physical requirement, but according to the power of an indestructible life” (15-17).
  • He sets aside the old law and brings in a better hope (18-19).
  • He was appointed High Priest by means of the oath of God (20-21).
  • He has become the guarantee of a better covenant (22). 
  • He does not die, but continues forever as High Priest (23-24).
  • He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him (25-28). 

It is this last truth, concerning His salvation, where the author draws out several incredible points for our consideration. It is the crescendo of his “Melchizedek argument.” His work is unparalleled–He always makes intercession for us (25). His character is unparalleled–He is holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners and exalted above the heavens (26). His sacrifice and offering is perfect (27). His oath is unparalleled–He is a Son, made perfect forever (28).

Of all the ways the writer establishes the superiority of Christ over all rivals, this one is the most interesting to me. It shows the masterful way God weaves events and Scripture together. The writer of Hebrews is making the point that the Levitical priesthood has been replaced by something better. Why would you exchange the superior for the inferior? 

After this encounter, which seems relatively insignificant until David and the writer of Hebrews later expound upon it, Abram refuses to enrich himself by the unsavory people of Sodom. The new King of Sodom only wants the people, but offers Abram to keep all the returned spoils from Chadorlaomer. Abram will have no part in that, taking only provisions necessary for the completed battle. Abram will continue to rely on God’s promises to take care of his needs, and he parts company with the king of this wicked domain. 

(Picture taken on March 10, 2018, running at the Dead Sea with Keith Kasarjian)

How We Know Jesus Is Better (from Hebrews)

Gary Pollard

Old System — Priest had to make a sacrifice for himself first, because he’s fallible, too. 

New System — Jesus was a perfect sacrifice; he never made a mistake. 

Old System — Priest was mortal, so his viewpoint was confined to his lifespan, altitude, and number of people he knew. 

New System — Jesus came from an all-knowing, immortal father. His perspective spans all of time, and he has a bird’s-eye view of all of earth. 

Old System — Priest had to bring blood that didn’t belong to him. In fact, it was just the blood of an animal. That wasn’t enough to forgive everyone’s mistakes! 

New System — Jesus brought his own blood, which has enough power to forgive anyone who seeks him. 

Old System — Priest had to make sacrifices constantly, both on a regular schedule, and whenever someone brought a sin offering. 

New System — Jesus made one sacrifice, which was and remains all we need. 

Old System — Priest could only enter the most special place one time per year. 

New System — Jesus lives to enter the father’s presence every single time we pray. 

Old System — No sin could really be forgiven, and every sin required restitution. 

New System — Our sins are completely forgiven, and Jesus keeps us pure with his own blood. 

We might take this new system for granted, but our king Jesus is the most perfect high priest. We will live forever because of what he’s done (and continues to do) for us! 

The Heart Of Man

Carl Pollard

Something you will hear often if you have spent any amount of time in the Lord’s Church is “read your Bible.” This simple, yet important command is needed in our walk with God. Why? The need for daily encouragement is essential because it is easy for our hearts to go astray without it. Without consistent meditation on God’s word we open the door to the mindset of the world. 

The Israelites chose to stray away from God, they neglected His commands and let their hearts grow cold. The Hebrew writer tells us that Christ is able to discern our heart. He knows our spiritual condition, even if we have convinced others of something that isn’t true. 

Hebrews 3:12 says, “Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God.” After the quotation in 3:7-11, the writer issues a warning (3:12). He warns the “brothers” (2:11-12,17; 3:1) not to have an “evil, unfaithful heart in falling away from the living God.” Even if no one else knows, God knows. Even if you attend services regularly, people say you’re a good person, and everyone is convinced you’re a Christian, God knows if your heart is evil. 

So what do we do? How can we keep this from happening? Hebrews 3:14 says, “We are partakers with Christ if we hold fast till the end the confidence we had at first.” 

Israel did not “hold fast” in faithfulness to the end of the journey (3:6,14). At the end of the discussion of this Psalm, the writer again urges the readers to “hold fast” to their confession (4:14). This is another way of urging them to “be faithful.”

We are to remain faithful and hold fast to the confession we made that Jesus is Lord, but the writer gives us a specific example in 3:12-15:

“Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. 13 But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original confidence firm to the end. 15 As it is said, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” 

“Exhort one another.” That means to urge strongly, appeal to, urge, exhort, encourage. This is why we are a family. When we come together this is what we should be doing. Helping fellow brothers and sisters in our walk with God. By doing so we can stay strong and make sure our hearts are right with God. Because if they aren’t, Christ the living word is able to discern the heart of man. 

The human heart is a complex thing. It sustains life, is constantly working and it is a necessity. Spiritually, our heart should be so focused on God and His word that it gives us eternal life. It should be constantly active so as to avoid spiritual death and complacency. It should always remain a necessity to grow and nurture our heart, motivated by the fact that Christ can see just who we are on the inside. 

Jesus: The Captain of Our Salvation

Brent Pollard

“For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.” (Hebrews 2.10 NKJV)

Hebrews has a powerful picture of Jesus that stands out for its clarity and brilliance. The book of Hebrews refers to Jesus as the captain of our salvation. To truly comprehend the breadth and scope of this title, we must first understand the Greek word some translators render captain – “archegos.”

When applied to a person, “archegos” indicates that they are the first in a line of characters or events. Jesus made our salvation possible and is the perfect savior. Furthermore, the term can refer to the originator or founder of something significant. Using the word “captain,” the translators of the King James Version intended to highlight Jesus’s role as a leader and guide for Christians on their spiritual path.

The book of Hebrews extols Jesus’ important role as our high priest and the leader of our faith, demonstrating the way forward by enduring suffering and ascending to glory. This illustration is symbolic and closely resembles the role of a captain in an army, historically and today.

The Captain’s Charge on the Battlefield

A captain in the military is responsible for a wide range of duties. A captain is responsible for overseeing the execution of orders from higher ranks by a company of anywhere from 75 to 100 soldiers in the United States military. The parallel is Jesus’ dedication to carrying out the Father’s will (John 5.30).

In the heat of battle, a captain must put their strategic abilities to the test. They must assess circumstances quickly, make immediate decisions, and modify strategies. Jesus is our compass, showing us how to break down the barriers of sin and live a righteous life.

Furthermore, a captain ensures that his troops are well-supplied, whether with ammunition, food, or medical supplies. This provision is echoed in Jesus’ teachings, where He promises abundant life, is our eternal bread and water, and is the source of all spiritual blessings (John 10.10, 6.35; 7.37; Ephesians 1.3).

The captain has an essential role in raising morale among the troops. A soldier’s hope and confidence can turn the tide of battle. Jesus encourages us on our spiritual journey by assuring us that He has already conquered worldly challenges (John 16.33).

The captain acts as a liaison between the higher-ranking officers and the troops, facilitating effective communication and meeting the needs of both sides. In 1 Timothy 2.5, we learn that Jesus mediates between us and God.

Lastly, captains lead from the front, setting examples of bravery, decision-making, and resilience. In His life and teachings, Jesus exemplifies these characteristics, encouraging us to follow in His footsteps (John 13.15; 1 Peter 2.21).

In Conclusion

By comparing Jesus to a captain, we can better understand His unrivaled role as guide, leader, and supporter on our spiritual voyage. We are more than just soldiers with Jesus as our leader; we are more than conquerors (Romans 8.37). We must put our faith in the One leading us to eternal glory, the Captain of our Salvation.

A Hope For The Future

Carl Pollard

 Hebrews 7:20-28 compares and contrasts Christ to the Levitical priesthood. In these verses Jesus’ Superiority is clearly seen. With Christ we have hope in the future, and with that comes power for the present. Christ is a better hope because He is the Appointed Priest. Being appointed caries with it the idea of being assigned a role or job. Christ has been assigned the role of being our very own priest. 

Hebrews 7:20-22 says, “And it was not without an oath. For those who formerly became priests were made such without an oath, but this one was made a priest with an oath by the one who said to him: “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, ‘You are a priest forever.'” This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant.”

The Levitical priests were appointed by command. Exodus 28:1-4, “Then bring near to you Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the people of Israel, to serve me as priests—Aaron and Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty. You shall speak to all the skillful, whom I have filled with a spirit of skill, that they make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him for my priesthood. These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a coat of checker work, a turban, and a sash. They shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons to serve me as priests.”

‭‭God created the role of priests. It was a Divine command, but without an oath. In contrast to this, the great High Priest was made Priest with an oath. Psalm 110:4 says, “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, “You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.””

This is a promise joined with an oath. Hebrews 6:17, “So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath.” Jesus is a guarantee of the better covenant appointed by an oath from God, Christ guarantees the new covenant that is better. 

Since He is appointed by God, we have direct access through Our Great High Priest. We have hope in knowing that the very Son of God is active in our relationship to the Father. That is a better hope. Beyond anything in the world. 

What do you hope for in the future? A better job? More money? A bigger home? If so, know that people get fired, money gets spent, and homes rot away. If our hope is anything but our great High Priest, we have lost sight of what’s most important. Christ is our better hope because He has given us what we need most, a relationship with God the Father.

Painful Progress: The Benefits Of Experiencing God’s Discipline

Friday’s Column: Brent’s Bent

“For the moment, all discipline seems not to be pleasant, but painful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness” (Hebrews 12.11 NASB).

My lumbar muscles started spasming as I sat in the infusion chair. This was also the case the last time I took this medication. My body must get used to the medicine before these side- effects disappear. Unfortunately, I had to restart the drug due to abscesses that had formed in my abdomen. Since my treatment weakens my immune system, any bacteria in abscesses may get more robust and harder to treat. So, I have to start over and take the loading dose before switching to getting an infusion every eight weeks.

These anti-inflammatory drugs target a tumor necrosis factor protein. The normal function of TNF is beneficial because it eliminates necrotic (dead) tissue. Necrotic tissue is absent, however, in autoimmune disorders. However, a rogue inflammatory response causes the body to attack itself regardless. When the immune system kills healthy cells instead of invaders, it puts the body under a lot of stress. So, you have no choice but to take what might seem like an extreme step to fix your health problem, which will hurt your immune system in the long run. However, autoimmune diseases are unusual and necessitate drastic measures.

In Hebrews 12.4–11, the inspired author discusses God’s discipline and compares it to the discipline people receive from their earthly fathers, which is not always good. Even though we know they aren’t perfect, we usually don’t hold them accountable when they discipline us because we think it’s for our good. If this is the case with a physical father, it must be even more so with the Father of our spirits. Indeed, our heavenly Father disciplines us so that we can become holy and live righteously. That’s why, although this form of discipline isn’t fun and may even be uncomfortable at times, we can’t help but value the result.

So, the next time you have “conscience spasms,” consider how they are a sign that God’s medicine is purging you of impurity.

Brent Pollard

He Goes Before Me

Monday’s Column: Neal At The Cross

Pioneers are fascinating, whether Gutenberg and the printing press, Jenner and vaccinations, or the Wright brothers and flying. Whether travel and exploration or inventions, people who went first or paved the way for us are people we may never think about but who we owe so much to. Even our highway systems, with paved roads that go through tall mountains, took people to make a way when there was no way.

Hebrews 6:20 uses a word only found in that verse–“forerunner.” The word had a diverse usage. It was used in athletics, of one who runs forward at top speed. It was used of one who went in advance of others, like horsemen or guides ahead of the army. In Alexandria, Roman ships heavily loaded with grain, were led out by a small guide ship. It was used in botany of the first green shoot, tree, or flower of Spring. Metaphorically, it was used of a “precursor” like the apostles or John the Baptist. 

The idea in Hebrews 6:20 is that Jesus has gone behind the curtain before us into God’s presence. We can join Him there because His death made it possible for us (Heb. 5:8-9). But we also have unrestricted access to God’s presence now because He prepared the way. The writer tells us that this is our sure and stedfast anchor of hope that allows us to take refuge. 

It is beautiful to think that Jesus has gone before us and paved a way for us. This is a theme the writer addresses throughout Hebrews. He shows us how Jesus has done that in the past, is doing it now, and will do it in the future.

He went before me in the creation (Hebrews 1). In the most elementary sense, Jesus went before me in that He brought me into being (Heb. 1:2). He made us knowing that He would someday become one of us, with a human body (Heb. 10:5). He made the circulatory system, the nervous system, the respiratory system, the skeletal  system, as well as every other system, cells, tissues & organs, knowing He’d experience them. He was here on earth before most, if not all, the recipients of Hebrews and certainly before all of us—but He paved the way for life on this earth for all of us. He provided for my material needs (Mat. 5:45; 6:25-32; 1 Tim. 6:17), my emotional needs, my social needs (Gen. 2:18; Prov. 17:17), and my spiritual needs–He created me with a desire for worship, fellowship, and discipleship and guides me in the proper expression of each of them. 

He went before me in my salvation (Hebrews 2:10). Your version probably says author, captain, founder, or even pioneer. The original word was used of one who founded a city, gave it its name, and became its guardian. Or it was used of a head of a family, a founder of a school, or military commander. The context of Hebrews 2:10 is that Jesus came to earth to experience humanity firsthand, but He’s called the author of our salvation. He does the sanctifying and we’re the sanctified (11). His death freed us from the one who had the power of death (14-15). He made forgiveness for our sins (17). 

Hebrews uses “salvation” seven times, but also speaks of sanctification, propitiation, purification, and the like. The letter is full of blessings He gives now because of our salvation–assistance when tempted (2:18), assurance (3:14), bold approach to the throne (4:16), hope (6:19), mercy and forgiveness (8:12), confidence (10:19), nearness (10:22), endurance (12:1), and an unshakable kingdom (12:28). I get a clear sense that He wants me to make it through this world spiritually alive!

He has gone before me in my eternal destination (Hebrews 12:1-2). The writer draws to his conclusion, pointing us to “the race that is set before us.” Everyone of us is still in the race, running toward some conclusion. The writer says to look away from all other things to look at Jesus. He took the lead and is setting the example at the front of the pack. In fact, He successfully finished this race and is waiting on us to finish and join Him in a victory celebration. The only way to lose this race is to stop running, but if we keep our eyes on Christ we won’t stop. Jesus is our leader, inspiration, and goal we are running toward in our race.

The Hebrews’ writer says judgment is coming, but Jesus has paved the way for us. Throughout Hebrews, he tells us we can have confidence (4 times), assurance (4 times), and hope (7 times). Jesus is the basis for all of that. 

Jesus made the hard choice. He left heaven and came to take the punishment we deserve so we could receive the reward He died to give us. He could have chosen to save Himself and let us die lost and without hope, but He made the unselfish choice. What about us? Are we willing to sacrifice now, so that we can ultimately receive the prize? We can do it! Jesus showed us how!

Neal Pollard

A Subtle Prohibition

Wednesday’s Column: Third’s Words

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Gary Pollard

The Index Librorum Prohibitorum was a Roman Catholic list of prohibited Bible versions. Anything other than the Vulgate was illegal to possess. Violations had severe penalties. No lay person would ever want to be caught with a common, modern translation while the Index had force of law.  

While not nearly as dramatic as a forbidden book list, some have inadvertently created similar prohibitions. Their reasons are different, their motives less nefarious, but the outcome is equally destructive. 

Are translations like the ERV and NIV perfect? No! But no one translation is perfect. Read multiple, but be sure to include versions like these in your study. If and when something comes up that seems different, investigate it! Spend some time figuring it out! Look at context, consult multiple translations, see how it fits with the author’s overall message. 

This is a difficult statement, but true: many Christians do not understand the Bible. Some equate memorization with knowledge, but could not accurately elaborate on what a passage means. Secularization and hectic schedules are partially to blame, but difficulty understanding their translations is often the culprit. 

Some examples:

(ESV): Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 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. 

(KJV): God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

(ERV): In the past God spoke to our people through the prophets. God spoke to them many times and in many different ways. And now in these last days God has spoken to us again. God has spoken to us through his son. God made the whole world through his son. And God has chosen his son to have all things. The son shows the glory of God. He is a perfect copy of God’s nature. The son holds everything together with his powerful command. The son made people clean from their sins. Then he sat down at the right side of the Great One (God) in heaven. God gave him a name that is a much greater name than any of the angels have. And he became that much greater than the angels. 

Which was easier to read? Which was easiest to understand? The last probably shed some light on the ESV and KJV. How? It’s translated the way people actually communicate. It removes an obstacle to understanding that formal equivalence has kept in place for some time. 

This quote is famously attributed to Albert Einstein, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.” The same readily applies to the Bible, which was originally written in the recipients’ common language. 

The translation committee for the English Bible for the Deaf include this statement at the beginning of their work: 

“The main concern of the translators was always to communicate [the message] of biblical writers as effectively and as naturally as the original writings did to people in that time. Faithful translation is not just matching words in a dictionary. It is a process of expressing the original message in a form that will not only have the same meaning, but will sound as relevant, attract the same interest, and have the same impact today as it did thousands of years ago.”

Reading a modern translation that utilizes dynamic equivalence (alongside other translations) in personal Bible study is extremely helpful. Doing so can have no other effect than enhancing one’s understanding of God’s word! 

“Charakter”

Monday’s Column: Neal At The Cross

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Neal Pollard

Character is defined as the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual and involves a person’s good reputation. The Greek word “charakter” first referred to the die used in minting coins, then came to include the sense of an image, stamp, seal, or copy. The Greeks used the word to speak of the typical features of an individual or nation, from which came the idea of “moral character” and then “the “distinctiveness” of a language, the “style” of a writer, or a “type” of philosophy (Kittel and Bromiley, TDNT, 1308). Arndt tells us the word means something produced as a representation or reproduction, and that human beings are formed by God as a representation of His own identity (1078).

The word is only found in the Bible in Hebrews 1:3. The epistle’s writer is describing Jesus, saying, “He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power.” It is an absolutely amazing truth that we are made in the image of God (Gen. 1:27), but the writer of Hebrews is saying something even more powerful about Jesus in Hebrews 1:3. He was not created by God as a reflection of God’s identity. The writer uses this specific word in Hebrews as part of His explanation that the Son is God! The NASB and NIV translate χαρακτήρ (CHARAKTER) as “exact representation.” The ESV has “exact imprint,” the NKJV has “express image,” the NLT says “expresses the very character of God,” and the ASV puts “the very image of His substance.” 

The author of this epistle leads out in his overall theme that Jesus is better by establishing the most important reason why. He is God. The writer uses Old Testament Scripture to prove it, citing Psalm 45 and Isaiah 61 to call Him God (Heb. 1:8-9). He then quotes Psalm 102:25 to say of Jesus, “You, Lord, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth….” Then, in Hebrews 1:13, he quotes Psalm 110:1, which begins, “The LORD (Yahweh) said to my Lord (Adonai)….”

Let’s not miss the initial point of the letter driven home by the unknown writer. With a multitude of Old Testament passages, he proves this point about the essential character of Jesus Christ. He is God. He is as much God as Father and Holy Spirit. He is as powerful, all-knowing, omnipresent, perfect, sovereign, transcendent, self-existent, eternal–He is as Divine as Deity can be. 

That makes His willingness to be made a little while lower than the angels to taste death for everyone (Heb. 2:9) and to call us His brethren (2:11ff) all the more incredible. God lowered Himself not only to save us but to make us part of His family. We could spend the rest of the day meditating on that profound truth and still not fully grasp it. 

Here’s the question. God made us, became  one of us, died for us, and then opened the door to us to be His brother. What does that say about His character? As we try to fathom and appreciate that, it should give rise to another question? How should that affect  our character?

Supersize Your Scripture Smarts!

Tuesday’s Column: Dale Mail

Dale Pollard

The Bible is not a mysterious book of codes that can’t be cracked, though some might try and lead you to believe that. 

We know that the water can be metaphorically muddied rather quickly when there are countless faulty interpretations of books like Revelation, Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and other prophetic or apocalyptic literature. Typology is another misunderstood, and often misapplied, method of Bible study. I’m convinced that if we can spend some time studying the different “types” found in scripture, we can see God’s message for mankind more clearly and have a more profound grasp of His Word. This also happens to be a great way to grow our knowledge of scripture more quickly!

So first, let’s try to clarify exactly what Typology is. 

Summed up in one sentence it’s referring to Old Testament things which are prefigured or symbolized by events and characters of the New Testament.

This may sound a little confusing, but let’s look at a few examples. 

  1. John 3:14 says that just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of man must be lifted up (Num. 21:9). The Christ “type” is the bronze serpent. We know because of a specific New Testament reference. 
  2. 1 Peter 3:20: “…God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built, only a few people, 8 in all were saved through water,” This illustrates how in the same way baptismal water saves those who submit to Christ today. 

Typology is not some mystic Bible code where we are free to translate events and characters in scripture as we please because God tells us exactly what He intended to say. 

1 Cor. 14:33 says that God is NOT the “author of confusion.” He has a message for us all— and it’s a message of hope. 

Are you interested in learning more about typology? The perfect book for you to study would be the book of Hebrews as it makes more Old Testament references than any other New Testament book. By diving into Hebrews you will appreciate and understand both the Old Testament, and the Bible as a whole. 

Failing to See the Value

 Friday’s Column: Brent’s Biblical Bytes

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Brent Pollard

In the 1970s, the people at Reece’s came up with a new candy they initially called “PBs.” They later changed their name to Reece’s Pieces. Sales were good but then dropped. As fate would have it, Universal Studios was shooting a new movie by Steven Spielberg about a stranded extra-terrestrial who wanted to go home. They were planning on using candy as the bait to lure the alien out from his hiding place. Obviously, they were going to use the popular M&M’s. However, the maker of M&M’s, Mars Incorporated, turned down the offer to have their candy featured in the film.  

Since Reece’s Pieces were the same small size as M&M’s, Spielberg and company decided to use the chocolate, candy-coated peanut butter pieces instead. The Hershey Company was a little hesitant to permit the usage of their candy until the vice-president at the time, Jack Dowd, saw a few movie stills. He agreed and went in on a million-dollar joint promotion with the film. The movie, of course, was E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.  It was a huge hit. Consequently, sales of Reece’s Piece went up 65% and surpassed sales of M&M’s for the first time in its history. One wonders what the folks at Mars Incorporated thought of their blown opportunity.  

The Hebrews’ writer speaks of something much more valuable, of which others fail to see the value: The Son of God. Note Hebrews 10.29. “How much more severe punishment do you think he will deserve who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace?” In its context, the Hebrews’ writer is addressing apostate Christians. This lack of appreciation is not a matter of these Christians merely falling short of God’s glory (cf. Romans 3.23). The Hebrews’ writer talks about the willful disregard of the new covenant with its symptoms, such as forsaking the assemblies (Hebrews 10.25). These are people re-crucifying Jesus Christ (Hebrews 6.4-6). 

I suppose that Mars Incorporated’s lack of foresight only hurt them momentarily. I could not find a direct head-to-head sales count for the two products, but Mars Incorporated made more sales revenue than Hershey’s in 2019. However, the person failing to value the blessings found in Jesus Christ through the committing of willful sin does away with the efficacy of the sacrifice made for their sins (Hebrews 10.26). Furthermore, such apostates will not enter God’s rest (Hebrews 4.1-11). Don’t be guilty of giving what is holy to dogs and pearls to swine (Matthew 7.6). Respond to the invitation of our Lord: 

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11.28-30) 

Works Consulted 

Foster, Tom. “Why Reese’s Pieces and Not M&M’s Were Featured in the Movie ‘E.T..’” TVOvermind, TVOvermind, 12 Feb. 2018,www.tvovermind.com/reeses-pieces-not-mms-featured-movie-e-t/. 

Kelly, Debra. “The Untold Truth of Reese’s.” Mashed.com, Mashed, 29 Apr. 2020, www.mashed.com/205754/the-untold-truth-of-reeses/. 

Troy, Eric. “Reese’s Pieces Instead of M&M’s For E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial?” Culinarylore.com, Eric Troy and CulinaryLore, 5 June 2018, https://culinarylore.com/food-history:reeses-pieces-instead-of-m-and-ms-in-et/. 

“Mars.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, www.forbes.com/companies/mars/. 

“Hershey (HSY).” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, www.forbes.com/companies/hershey/. 

We Must Grow Up 

Friday’s Column: Supplemental Strength

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Brent Pollard

 

Sometimes our television plays to an “empty room.” People are present; they just are not paying attention. I suppose you could say the television just serves to offer “background noise” on those occasions. Today, an action-type show played on a broadcast network. A childhood favorite was playing. Though I might be accused of “hassling the Hoff,” I noted, as an adult, the show I enjoyed as a child was replete with terrible acting from the show’s star and the supporting cast. The only character that retained an air of sophistication was the car voiced by William Daniels. Even with KITT, though, it wasn’t that “he” had great lines, but a great accent. 

 

I couldn’t help but think of Paul’s words to the brethren of Corinth. 

 

“When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.” (1 Corinthians 13.11 NASB)

 

I will explain this verse in its context before I make application of it. In the immediate context of Paul’s discourse on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12-14, Paul was comparing their reliance on spiritual gifts such as tongue-speaking to being like a child. Love was the more excellent way (1 Corinthians 12.31ff). The spiritual gifts would pass away. Love would be what would guide the church after the miraculous age had passed. Rather than quibble over who had the best spiritual gift, they needed to grow up and be motivated by love. 

 

Within the context of the epistle, though, Paul’s words in our text serves as a reminder to Christians that a failure to mature as we should, signifies a childish mind (1 Corinthians 14.20).  Only in one’s desire to sin is such a childish disposition a positive, since it’s childlike innocence which epitomizes the ideal child of God (Matthew 18.3). Thus, we are innocent like children, but stay like adults in our thinking. 

 

This brings me back to Knight Rider. Why did the show make me cringe? I know some might accuse me of being quite capable of immaturity. Nevertheless, I am an adult now. I see things like plot holes. I can tell I am watching D-list actors. And the entire premise strains credulity. In the episode airing, Michael and KITT had gone to a South American country whose American advisor was imperiled by a coup begun during a volcanic eruption. They were responsible for safely extracting this advisor.  Naturally, they accomplished their task with little difficulty within the hour.

 

Now, let us bring it on home where it counts. How many Christians are easily swayed by the smooth words of a false teacher because he plays on those things appealing to an immature mind? How many base their convictions on how they feel instead of a “thus saith the Lord?” The Hebrews writer admonished his recipients to stop being milk-drinkers so that can tear into the solid food found in God’s Word (Hebrews 5.12-14).  That takes spending time in prayer and Bible study.

 

In closing, I remind you of what God said to Job when He finally granted the latter the audience he had requested: “Now gird up your loins like a man…” (Job 38.3; 40.7).  May we heed those words also and make those needed adjustments to become the Christian men and women God would have us be.
 

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The Danger Of Being Swept Away

Neal Pollard

You may have heard that I was caught in a rip tide during Carl’s senior trip. We were at St. Pete’s Beach in the Tampa-area, swimming and playing in the water not far from a fishing pier. Somehow, I was pulled into a riptide and quickly pulled out toward the Gulf. The shore quickly grew distant and my subpar swimming abilities were tellingly useless. A couple of fishermen told me I was caught in it and my best hope was to try and move parallel to the waves and angle for a point about a half-mile up from where I was. That was a painfully slow process, and the water kept taking me where it wished.  I was on the other side of the pier, moving generally toward that point but still in the grips of the tide, when Dale swam out and helped pull me out of the current until I could finally get to shallower water and make my way back onto the beach. At the risk of sounding melodramatic, I believe Dale saved my life.

Only after this did I learn that, according to the CDC, there was an annual average of 3,536 fatal, unintentional drownings in the United States from 2005 to 2014. That’s about ten deaths per day. Nearly 80% of all people who die from drowning are male. A lack of swimming ability is the greatest risk factor in drowning, and 57% of all people, age 15 and over, who drown do so in “natural water settings” (like the ocean)(cdc.gov).  I also was reminded, from the Pandora playlist Dale piped through our van’s sound system, that he has an interesting sense of humor—playing “Under the Sea,” “The Ocean,” “High Tide, Low Tide,” “In Too Deep,” “Riptide,” “Drowing,” and “How To Save A Life” (plus a bunch more).

But I also have a different perspective toward some of the songs in our songbook:

  • “Soul you are drifting along on the tide, out on life’s ocean so boundless and wide…”
  • “Some poor fainting, struggle seaman, you may rescue, you may save…”
  • “Throw out the lifeline, someone is drifting away…”
  • “While on the sea hear the terrible roaring…”

As I look back, the currents were strong but the force was subtle. It did not take long for me to be moved away from the shore and taken away. Making the right efforts played a part in my staying afloat. Ultimately, however, I needed outside help to come back to shore.

The writer of Hebrews says, “For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it” (2:1). A.T. Robertson says of the word “drift”: “Here the metaphor is that ‘of being swept along past the sure anchorage which is within reach’ (Westcott), a vivid picture of peril for all” (342). BDAG says it is an imagery of flowing water and means “be washed away” or “drift away” (770). The Greek Old Testament uses the word in Proverbs 3:21, where Solomon urges his son to not let wisdom “vanish from [his] sight.” The epistle’s nautical metaphor pictures vividly what can happen in our spiritual lives. We can  lose sight of where we are, and we may begin to struggle and start to succumb to the pull of the current. We must continue to make the effort to pull away and we should accept the attempts of those who seek to rescue us.

Spiritually, none of us want to become a casualty. We do not want to perish. May we realize that falling away from God is not usually sudden or dramatic. It is often subtle and gradual. Let’s pay much closer attention to what we have heard! It’s our lifeline.

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Why Christ Became Flesh

Neal Pollard

The writer of Hebrews exhorts that Christ should be faithfully served, not abandoned, because He is a superior messenger to all other heavenly messengers (chapter one). Then, he gives another reason for holding fast to Him in chapter two. His readers were apparently struggling in their faith and gradually slipping back into the religion they had left. They lacked incentive, but the epistle gives reason after reason for why it should be restored.

In chapter two, he refers to Jesus’ humanity. Through it, He perfectly fills the role of High Priest in a way no Levitical priest could do under the old law. He enumerates the reasons why Jesus became flesh, and each reason was for each of us as individuals.

  • He became flesh to taste death for every man (9). He exercised God’s grace on our behalf. He was willing to make God’s understanding of our frailties empirical (experienced by human senses) by tasting death in a human body.
  • He became flesh to render the devil powerless (14). Before the cross, where Jesus gave up His physical body in death, the devil had the power over man. All mankind sinned and there were various sin offerings provided by God in the different ages. Yet, they could not “take away” sin (10:4,11). But, when Jesus died and was raised from the dead, He rendered the devil powerless over those who faithfully obey Christ and remain faithful unto death.
  • He became flesh to deliver the enslaved (15). Knowing no hope of deliverance from the horrible state of sinfulness makes for a miserable experience (Rom. 7:25). Christ came to deliver us from the awful slave master of sin (John 8:34).
  • He became flesh to become a merciful and faithful High Priest (17).  12 times in Hebrews, Jesus is called the Christian’s High Priest–the High Priest of our confession (3:1), in Heaven (4:14), sympathetic and sinless (4:15), appointed by the Father (5:5), without predecessor or successor (5:10), who went before us (6:20), holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens (7:26), seated at the Father’s right hand (8:1), an offering priest (8:3), and offering His own blood (9:11). His service in administering His blood on our behalf is merciful (kind, forgiving, protecting) and faithful (trustworthy and sure).
  • He became flesh to come to the aid of the tempted (18). He well remembers what it is like to suffer in a human body. Not just that greatest moment of suffering, up on the tree, but the daily discomforts (Mat. 8:20), abandonment (John 6:66), and betrayal (John 18:27; Mark 14:45). Therefore, He can help me right now with my problem. Nothing is too big, too mysterious, or too difficult for Him.

Five reasons from Hebrews two are given for why Jesus became flesh, but all of them are for me (and for you)! What a thrilling though. Let’s serve this wonderful Savior!

Laying Aside “Every Weight”

Neal Pollard

I try to write very seldom about my favorite hobby, running, which I picked up when our baby, who Pooh Duke has dubbed “Carlnormous,” was still in the womb (This is Carlnormous).  Running produces so many wonderful benefits, physically, psychologically, and mentally.  Yet, as I have heard said, exercise is only about 20% of weight management.  Therefore, until I have recently begun beefing up my “push back” exercises from the dinner table, I have been running at over 200 pounds for much of those 17 years.  I am 15 pounds lighter than I was this time last month, and Strava does not lie.  Today, I logged a 10K at a pace of 8:19/mile (Strava is cool), while listening to a mellow “Fleet Foxes And More” playlist from Amazon Music (Will Fleet Foxes reunite?)—not exactly heart-pumping exercise music.  This time last month, I was about a full minute slower per mile.  Since today I’m inevitably older than I’ve ever been, the difference has to be the fewer pounds I’m dragging around.  Hopefully, I’ll drop more weight, and if I do I anticipate that my pace may quicken and I’ll feel even better doing it.

New Testament writers use the running analogy on several occasions, but consider what the writer of Hebrews says:  “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (12:1-3). The NASB says “encumbrance” (NKJV, “weight”), and the word means “that which serves to hinder or prevent someone from doing something—‘hindrance, impediment’ (Louw-Nida, 13.149). While the implication is “of an athlete stripping himself of clothing which would impede his performance” (Ellingworth, NIGTC, np), how much more does something like 15 pounds “impede”?

This passage encourages endurance with at least three ideas.

Laying Aside The Weight Is Meaningful. It helps one with endurance as it helps eliminate obstacles to a successful run.  It shows up in a better quality of life. It impacts more than just the run you are on that day.  The effects are enduring and they impact such vital areas as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, etc.  So it is spiritually.  This is about defeating sin, staying faithful, endurance, and overcoming.  In line with the thrust of the whole letter of Hebrews, it is about not falling away and leaving Christ!  We do not want to hang on to anything that interferes with that eternal prospect.

Laying Aside The Weight Is Measurable. I can tell the difference in myself when I have or have not lost that extra weight.  Certainly, the same is true spiritually.  When something is weighing me down, distracting, depressing, deceiving, or drawing me away, I can tell.  I can see it in my devotional life, it shows up in my speech, my attitude, my ethics, and countless similar ways. Other people can see it, too.  I know that God sees every bit of it!

Laying Aside The Weight Is Motivational.  By laying aside the encumbrances and entanglements, I feel better and improve my physical quality of life. The Hebrews’ writer tells us about a transcendent motivation which follows lightening our spiritual loads of sin problems.  Removing the impediments, I am better able to fix my eyes on Jesus and His example while not growing weary or losing heart.

Past experience tells me that weight can be picked up even easier than it can be laid aside.  This is an ongoing discipline.  But it is so worthwhile!  Oh, that I can remember that as I run the course of earth toward eternity.