pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: Christ


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High Priest, Mediator, Perfect Sacrifice

Reading: Hebrews 7-9

Hebrews 9:24 – “Christ didn’t enter the holy place… made by human hands, but into heaven itself, so that he now appears in God’s presence for us.”

The focus of Hebrews 7-9 is to establish Jesus as high priest forever, as the mediator of the new covenant, as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world. The writer begins his or her case by looking back to Melchizedek, the priest of God who blessed Abraham. He was not a Levite but remains “a priest for all time.” Yes, earthly priests will collect a tithe and will offer sacrifices again and again. But they die and don’t continue serving. The Levitical priesthood, part of the old covenant, offered sacrifices that “can’t perfect the conscience.” The guilt and the shame and the power of sin, they remain.

Jesus came as the “guarantee of a better covenant.” High priest forever, Jesus is “holy, innocent, incorrupt, separate from sinners, raised high above the heavens.” He offered himself, “once for all,” providing his own blood as the blood necessary for forgiveness. This initiated the second or new covenant. Quoting from Jeremiah 31, the author of Hebrews declares that God revoked the old covenant (written under the Law) and prepared for a new covenant (written on our hearts) and sealed by the blood of Jesus. Unlike the old covenant, Jesus’ blood will “wash our consciences clean,” freeing us to serve the living God. Jesus himself was “the sacrifice without any flaw.”

The mediator of the new covenant, Jesus Christ, offers all who are called the promise of “eternal inheritance.” Leading the way, “Christ didn’t enter the holy place… made by human hands, but into heaven itself, so that he now appears in God’s presence for us.” In heaven, Jesus mediates for us, standing for us in God’s presence. We await Christ’s second coming, when he will save and redeem us and our broken world. In this advent season, we say, come, Lord Jesus, come.

Prayer: Lord God, we are so grateful for the gifts you gave us through the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ. Through his blood we are forgiven and cleansed, sins washed away, made holy in your sight. Christ did what the old covenant never could do. He made a new way, one that opened eternity to all who call on Jesus as Lord and Savior. Thank you for these gifts. Amen.


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Grasp the Anchor of Hope

Reading: Hebrews 4-6

Hebrews 5:9 – “After he has been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for everyone who obeys him.”

Chapter 4 begins with the hope that those without faith won’t miss out on eternal rest. This hope is grounded in faith, rooted in obedience. The Israelites were disobedient and didn’t enter their rest (the Promised Land.) But the promise is still open to God’s people. The author of Hebrews encourages all to become obedient so that all can enter into God’s rest (heaven.)

Next the writer of Hebrews declares that God’s word is great. It is “active, living, and sharper than any two-edged sword.” It penetrates us to our core, judging our thoughts and actions, leaving us “naked and exposed” to the Lord. Yet we are not condemned. We have a great high priest that sympathizes with our weakness. Christ, though without sin, was tempted in every way. Therefore we can draw near to Christ, confident that we will receive mercy and grace.

Hebrews then turns to a call to spiritual maturity. They are drinking milk now. Solid food is for the mature in faith. When they (or we) turn away from Christ, it is like crucifying Jesus again. So, the author says, let’s press on, leaning into the “better things,” making every effort to make our hope sure. Take refuge in Christ, grasp the hope that he gives. It is “a safe and secure anchor for our whole being.” May this be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, be our source of hope and strength. Guide us into faithful obedience to you alone. When we are tempted may the sword of your truth, the Spirit, cut through our temptations, securing the hope we have in you. Amen.


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The Pioneer

Reading: Hebrews 1-3

Hebrews 2:10 – “It was appropriate for God… to use the experience of suffering to make perfect the pioneer of salvation.”

Hebrews begins by declaring that God first spoke through the prophets (the Old Testament) and then spoke through a Son (the New Testament Gospels.) Jesus is “the imprint of God’s being.” The Son then died to cleanse people from their sins, returning to glory to sit at God’s right hand. It is a powerful opening statement.

The author then exhorts the audience to pay attention to the good news they’ve heard lest they “drift away.” He or she asks, “How will we escape [hell] if we ignore such a great salvation?” Great question. This gift of salvation was announced by Jesus and confirmed by the disciples and apostles. God offered validity through “signs, amazing things, various miracles, and gifts from the Holy Spirit.”

Hebrews then turns to who and what Jesus was and is. First, he tasted death so that we can taste grace. Jesus also lived as a human. In 2:10 we read, “It was appropriate for God… to use the experience of suffering to make perfect the pioneer of salvation.” Christ mediates for us based on experiencing what we experience. Jesus walked our road, experiencing suffering, when tempted. Through it all, Jesus was faithful to God. Because of his example and sacrifice, we can have hope and confidence. We can encourage one another every day so that one day we can “enter his rest.” May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for sending your Son, he who walked this earth as one of us. In those 30+ years he experienced what it is like to be human – the suffering, the temptation, the pain. Yet in living he also revealed your love and the joy, hope, peace, contentment, and forgiveness found in that love. Help us today to walk in step with the Spirit, sharing that love, bringing you all the glory. Amen.


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People of Grace and Love

Reading: Philemon

Philemon 1:15 – “Maybe… Onesimus was separated from you for a while so that you might have him back forever.”

Today we turn to Paul’s letter to Philemon. He is appealing to Philemon to receive Onesimus back not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. Paul walks the fine line between coercion and appeal, at least twice crossing this line. Paul writes this letter not just to Philemon but also to the church that Philemon is a part of. What Paul asks of Philemon extends to the whole community of faith.

As I read this story today my mind went to the parable of the prodigal son. It also reminds me of estrangements that I’ve heard of in families I know well. We’re familiar with and maybe even have been involved in stories of separation, in experiences where one party somehow hurt or offended the other, making reconciliation difficult. In the story of the prodigal son we see how grace and love overcome the harm done to welcome the younger son back into the family. We are left hanging concerning the younger son’s estrangement from the older brother. We hope that they are reconciled. In situations we’ve experienced (or are still experiencing), love and grace are the keys to reconciliation.

Just as the younger brother and perhaps that family member or friend changed for the better to open the door for reconciling, so too has Onesimus changed. As a brother in Christ he has become useful to Paul. To Philemon he writes, “Maybe… Onesimus was separated from you for a while so that you might have him back forever.” Maybe the younger son had to experience the bottom of the pit to change. Maybe that estranged family member or friend had to experience something really hard to be changed. When change occurs, though, the ball is in our court. We hope that Philemon received Onesimus back as a brother in Christ. May we too be people of grace and love.

Prayer: Lord God, reconciliation is not easy. At times we are deeply wronged. Perhaps we’ve also suffered financially or physically. When the hurt and pain are deep, Lord, may your love and grace be deeper still. Through these, heal the hurt and pain in our hearts. Lead us then to be as you are, generous and abundant in our love and grace. Amen.


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Strengthened and Encouraged

Reading: 2nd Timothy 1-2

2nd Timothy 1:7 – “God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled.”

2nd Timothy is a letter written to a young but gifted pastor, defining his role and character as a faithful minister of the good news of Jesus Christ. Paul begins by reminding Timothy of the origins of his faith. It was planted in him by his grandma Lois and his mother Eunice. He then reminds Timothy of the “gift” that he has been given by God. Paul implores Timothy to “revive” that gift. To help him do so, Paul writes, “God didn’t give us a spirit that is timid but one that is powerful, loving, and self-controlled.”

Timothy must be having a challenging time. Paul next encourages Timothy, telling him not to be ashamed. Paul invites him to “share the suffering,” trusting in God’s power, purpose, and grace. The apostle turn shares his experience – appointed a teacher, suffered, not ashamed, convinced that God is “powerful enough to protect” what God placed in Paul. He is telling Timothy that he is not alone in his trials. So, Paul says, hold onto the good teachings that he has received and protect it by trusting in the Holy Spirit.

Paul also encourages Timothy to draw strength from Christ’s grace and to pass on the teachings of Christ to other capable teachers. Paul implores him to be a “good soldier of Jesus Christ” and to accept suffering as part of the rules of the game of ministry. Paul then offers some guidance on dealing with opponents, likely the source of some of Timothy’s suffering: present yourself as “tried-and-true,” don’t argue with them, and correct them with gentleness. Closing this section, Paul reminds Timothy to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace alongside others who “confess the Lord with clean hearts.” In this fellowship Timothy will be strengthened and encouraged. As people with clean hearts may we too strengthen and encourage one another in the Lord.

Prayer: Lord God, in moments when we might feel timid or even ashamed of our faith, sweep in with the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to speak boldly and powerfully, yet gently and kindly. Let love guide our words and actions. Use us to draw others to a saving faith in you. Amen.


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The Walk of Sincere Faith

Reading: 1st Timothy 1-3

1st Timothy 1:5 – “The goal of instruction is love from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.”

1st and 2nd Timothy and Titus are “pastoral epistles,” written to teach these new pastors how to lead. A task for young Timothy is to counter the false teachings present in Epaphras. These letters include practical advice aimed at forming faithful communities of faith. Paul identifies Timothy as “my true child in faith.” He then identifies the keys to good instruction as living from the heart, keeping a good conscience, and holding to a sincere faith.

Next Paul addresses the Law. Used rightly it can guide sinners – those who are sexually unfaithful, untruthful, and opposed to sound teaching. Reflecting back on his own life, Paul rejoices in the mercy and grace that he himself received from God. Even though the “biggest sinner,” Paul is now an example for others.

Paul offers encouragement to Timothy. Based on the prophecies made about Timothy, Paul believes that Timothy can “wage a good war” for Christ. In chapter 2 the instruction begins: pray for everyone. Live quiet and peaceful lives. Look to the one mediator, Jesus Christ. Paul then touches on the expected behavior of the folks in the community of faith. Men are to pray with holy hands. Women are to be modest, to do good works, and to learn from their husbands. Paul says all will be well with both husband and wife if both are walking in love, faith, holiness, and self-control.

In chapter 3 Paul speaks of the qualifications for supervisors and servants in the church. Supervisors are to be without fault, skilled at teaching, faithful, gentle, peaceable, and not greedy. Servants should be dignified, sober, and faithful. They shouldn’t gossip or be greedy. Paul closes this section telling Timothy that these instructions are in case he is delayed. And remember the mystery of Christ!

Prayer: Lord God, in our walk of faith, help us to be dedicated to you alone. Lead us to love well, to be sincere and honest, to be people of peace. Guard our hearts from the things of this world, keeping our focus on the things that are above. In all we do and say, may we bring you the glory. Amen.


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A Disciplined Life

Reading: 2nd Thessalonians 1-3

2nd Thessalonians 3:3 – “The Lord is faithful and will give you strength and protect you from the evil one.”

Photo credit: Aaron Burden

Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians continues to address the second coming of the Lord. They have become anxious because false teachers said the day has already come. Paul provides more details about the day’s approach. Satan will rise up as “the person who is lawless.” They will be in the temple and will deceive many people with fake signs and wonders. Then the Lord Jesus will come and will destroy the deceiver “with his breath.” Paul is telling the Thessalonians that the signs will be unmistakable. It will not be possible to miss the day or the events leading up to the day of the Lord.

Paul also offers prayers and thanksgiving for their faithful and holy living. He recognizes that they’ve been harassed and have suffered for their faith. Paul reminds them that on the day of the Lord, God will harshly judge those who refuse to obey the good news of Jesus Christ. The apostle is grateful that God chose the Thessalonians through this good news. He encourages them to “stand firm” and to hold onto what they were taught.

Offering and requesting prayer, Paul tells the Thessalonican church, “The Lord is faithful and will give you strength and protect you from the evil one.” He prays that they would be led to have hearts filled with “God’s love and Christ’s endurance.” Paul closes with a few more words on living a disciplined life, a holy and faithful life. He reminds them of his example of effort and hard work. He was not a burden to anyone. Some are idle and are meddling. He commands these to follow his example, earning a living, putting food on their own table. The letter closes with a blessing of peace and grace. May these words and this blessing guide our walk of faith too.

Prayer: Lord God, lead and guide us to walk faithfully each day. Strengthen and encourage us in those times of suffering. Grow our faith and trust in you as we experience your presence and power in our lives. Empower us to stand firm and to be sharers of the good news. Amen.


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Spirit, Body, Soul

Reading: 1st Thessalonians 4-5

1st Thessalonians 5:21-22 – “Examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good. Avoid every kind of evil.”

Chapter 4 begins with an encouragement to live in a way that pleases God. Paul encourages dedication to God and avoidance of sexual immortality. He encourages them to love each other well, as they’ve been taught. Paul encourages them to live quiet lives and to earn their own living. Paul then addresses a concern. There is anxiety over the believers who have died before Jesus returned. The event that was thought to occur very soon after Jesus’ death has not happened. Paul assures them that those “who are dead in Christ” will rise first, followed by those who are still living in Christ. In this way, “we will always be with the Lord.”

Paul addresses the inevitable “how” and “when” questions next. He reminds them that the day of the Lord will come “like a thief in the night.” Heading off worry, he next reminds them that they are not in darkness. Therefore the day will not catch them by surprise. Staying awake and sober (faithful), they will be ready. Wearing faithfulness, love, and hope, they will be prepared for the day. So, Paul says, keep building one another up.

In the “Final Instructions” we receive a flurry of directives. It is as if Paul has much yet to say but has only a little space in his parchment. There are about 18 instructions found in 12 short verses. In verses 16-18 we find the familiar “Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation.” In verses 21-22 we read, “Examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good. Avoid every kind of evil.” May we hear and apply these instructions to our faithful living, so that our spirit, body, and soul will be “intact and blameless” too on the day of the Lord.

Prayer: Lord God, as children of light, guide us to live in ways that are pleasing to you, that bring you glory. By the power of your Holy Spirit, strengthen and encourage us, build us up, and empower us to be good in the world. In all ways may light and love shine into the darkness and pain of our world. Amen.


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Faithful Witnesses

Reading: 1st Thessalonians 1-3

1st Thessalonians 2:2 – “We had the courage through God to speak God’s good news in spite of a lot of opposition.”

1st Thessalonians is written to encourage a church that is remaining faithful to God in spite of the persecution that they are facing. Paul encourages them to continue living grace-filled, loving lives of faith. The letter begins with thanksgiving. The church is demonstrating works, effort, and perseverance that comes through faith, hope, and love. The good news that Paul, Timothy, and Salvanus shared with them has been empowered by the Holy Spirit. Because of this, the church in Thessalonica has become an example to other churches and believers.

In chapter 2 Paul recalls their ministry in Thessalonica. He begins, “We had the courage through God to speak God’s good news in spite of a lot of opposition.” Perhaps this example has given strength to this church in their own suffering. Paul recalls their ministry as gentle. It was a joy to preach to and to live alongside them. The church saw how “holy, just, and blameless” Paul and companions were when amongst them. Paul remembers how they appealed to, encouraged, and pleaded with them to “live lives worthy of the God who is calling you.”

Paul then rejoices that the believers in Thessalonica are doing just that. He sees how they are imitators of the churches back in Judea – staying faithful even in their suffering. Paul expresses a longing to visit them again. But “Satan stopped us.” So he sent Timothy, who came back greatly encouraged by the faith of the Thessalonican church. This increases Paul’s desire to visit and it also increases his prayers for this church. Paul prays for strengthened hearts and for them to be “blameless in holiness.” Thus they will be ready when the Lord Jesus returns. May we be ready too!

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for this witness to faithful living. As we read of their faith, love, and hope in you, may these grow in our hearts. As we read of their good works and courageous endurance, may our faith be strengthened and encouraged. Build us up, O God, to be who and what you call us to be as witnesses to the good news of Jesus Christ. Amen.


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The New Nature

Reading: Colossians 3-4

Colossians 3:9-10 – “Take off the old human nature… and put on the new nature… by conforming to the image of the one who created it.”

Today we read about living the Christian life. Paul begins this portion of the letter reminding us that being raised in Christ should lead us to thinking about “the things above.” He encourages us to “put to death” the earthly parts of ourselves – corruption, greed, lust, anger, slander, foul language… Laying aside these behaviors, we “take off the old human nature… and put on the new nature… by conforming to the image of the one who created it.” This new nature is Christlike. Therefore, earthly distinctions also fall away. In Christ there is no Greek or Jew… “Christ is all things and in all people.”

The new nature is characterized by compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, tolerance, forgiveness, and love. Love arches over all the others, forming “the perfect bond of unity.” This is yet another way of saying that the greatest of these is love. Paul also elevates the peace of Christ. This peace is rooted in love along with being thankful. An attitude of gratitude brings contentment, which yields peace in our hearts. Paul then once again grounds our relationships – husband/wife, slave/master – in Christlike terms. Summarizing this part Paul writes, “Whatever you do, do it from the heart and not for people… You serve the Lord Jesus Christ.” This too is an invitation into the new nature of Christ.

As he closes, Paul again uplifts the power of prayer: prayers of thanksgiving and prayers for his ministry. He sends Tychicus with the letter to encourage them and he offers greetings from and to many people. There is a feeling of family and community as he closes, a unity among the believers. May this be our spirit too.

Prayer: Lord God, help us this day to put on Christ, to be like him in every way. May these qualities be evident in our lives as we seek to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. Plant in our hearts love and peace, contentment and joy. In all that we do and say, may we shine light into the darkness of our world. Amen.