HE BECAME A MAN

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Hebrews

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Read Hebrews 1 -2

     In the past God spoke to our forefathers 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 he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1-2 NIV

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     The book of Hebrews begins by introducing Jesus, the Son of God, and The Creator of the universe - the One who actually knows what happened, because He was there when it all began. But Jesus was not only there at the beginning, He remains as the power who holds it all together. “God’s Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. "(1:3a)

     There is no other power in the Heavens or on earth superior to Him. The author of Hebrews writes, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor..." (2:9a) Jesus voluntarily gave up His exalted position to identify with us and pay the ultimate price for our sin. so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death - that is, the devil - and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. (2:14b-15)

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Thank you Lord that you paid the ultimate price for our sin and that we can trust You as the One who sustains all things. Bless our home with Your presence.

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Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:18 NIV

INTRODUCTION TO HEBREWS

     The book of Hebrews was a letter to Jewish Christians who were experiencing persecution both physically and spiritually. Many had lost their possessions and family relationships, while some were plagued with doubt about the decision they made to identify with Christ.
     Some believe that Paul wrote this letter, but nowhere in the document does he give his identity. Whoever it was, he speaks of Timothy as a “brother.” (13:23) He reassures the church that Jesus Christ is indeed their Messiah, superior to angels and to Moses and the prophets.
     A key verse for this book is Hebrews 1:3: “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.” NIV
     This epistle contains a depth of doctrine best understood by those familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures. Although this letter was written to a specific Hebrew church, it is an encouragement for all believers today to remain faithful in spite of circumstances. The challenge to go on to maturity and desire the meat of the Word is certainly relevant today.
     After giving Old Testament examples of patience in the face of horrific persecution of former believers, he says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Titus

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READY FOR EVERY GOOD WORK

Read Titus 2 and 3

Those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. Titus 3:8b NKJV

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Paul’s letter to Titus instructs him to appoint godly men as elders of the church. These men will have a difficult job ahead of them because there are already disputes among the people. “Remind them,” he writes, “to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. (Titus 3:1-2)

The quest for a gentle peaceable life should begin at home, so he tells Titus to gently instruct the older believers to live consistent Christian lives as examples for the young people. For instance, the older women were to “admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.” (Titus 2:4-5)

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Lord, help us to make every effort to be at peace with those in the church and without. May our behavior reflect the graciousness of your mercy toward us. When our hearts are troubled, give us peace and wisdom to know how to respond.

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For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age. Titus 2:11-12 NKJV

DIFFICULT TIMES

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LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Timothy

Read 2 Timothy 3-4

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come 2 Timothy 3:1 NKJV

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Paul tells Timothy that his own ministry is about to come to a close. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he gives us some insight into what will happen prior to our Lord’s return: “For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good..., lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. " (3:2-5)

In other words, the world will become an increasingly perilous place in the last days. In the face of this, what is Paul’s challenge? "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." (2 Timothy 4:2) Even though people will not want to hear the truth, Timothy is to preach it anyway.

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Lord, forgive me when I have been hesitant to answer those who deny the truth of Your Word. Give me courage to speak rather than remain silent when the name of Jesus is blasphemed. Grant me also the wisdom to know when I should remain silent and simply live the message.

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All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV