"God's Final Word" (Part 3)

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. 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. (Hebrews 1:1-3 NIV).

The third principle declared about Jesus as God’s final Word is he is the revelation of God. Look again at verse three of our reading today. The writer says, The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being. This is an incredible declaration of the character of Jesus. The word “being” suggests his timeless existence. He was and is and forever shall be! It is a word of his eternal nature. That brings us incredible hope. Remember that Jesus is the “first fruit” for all of those who believe in him. As he was resurrected; so we shall be resurrected. When I begin to think about the times of trial and challenge in my life, I must be reminded that they are mere moments in time. My eternal life is going to be free from all of that!

He also uses the word “radiance.” It literally means “bright ray from the original body.” It is not reflected light, or radiance. Jesus doesn’t mirror God, he is God! He is the light itself! As you walk through the dark paths of your life, those “valleys of the shadows of death” Jesus is the light that forces the shadows to flee from before him! He is also the “exact representation” of God’s being. The writer is simply stating in unquestioning terms that the Son is not a figure of God; he is not a part of God. He is the express image of God! He IS God! Gregory of Nazianzus, in A.D. 381, said of Jesus:

He began His ministry by being hungry, yet He is the Bread of Life. Jesus ended His earthly ministry by being thirsty, yet He is the Living Water. Jesus was weary, yet He is our rest. Jesus paid tribute, yet He is the King. Jesus was accused of having a demon, yet He cast out demons. Jesus wept, yet He wipes away our tears. Jesus was sold for thirty pieces of silver, yet He redeemed the world. Jesus was brought as a lamb to the slaughter, yet He is the Good Shepherd. Jesus died, yet by His death He destroyed the power of death.

Now that’s a good Word! Can’t you trust in Him? I can!