We’ve been working through a catechism with our kids. One question asks, “Why must the Redeemer be truly human?” The answer: “That in human nature he might on our behalf perfectly obey the whole law and suffer the punishment for human sin; and also that he might sympathize with our weaknesses.” Jesus’s humanity is an essential doctrine for every believer.
In Hebrews 2, the tapestry of Christ’s salvation work highlights Jesus’s humanity. We’re told that God’s people “must pay attention all the more to what we have heard so that we will not drift away” (Hebrews 2:1).
God’s words are more sure than those of an expert, best friend, or even angels. The gospel is an anchor that keeps us from drifting. What anchors you daily? Are you tethered to Christ or drifting along with the fleeting world? There is no other way of salvation for sinful humans. The Redeemer had to be truly human to be a merciful high priest, able to make atonement for the people’s sins once and for all. The sacrifices of lambs and goats couldn’t change sinful hearts, but Jesus’s sacrifice was superior because it did (vv.14–17).
He did what no human could do—obey God’s law perfectly. He was the human we were all meant to be. In fulfilling the law, Jesus removed the sting of death and the power of sin over us. If He never came, we would still stand condemned. Now, His perfect obedience has been applied to those united to Him by faith.
Not only did He live the perfect life, but He also suffered and died in the place of sinners. Because He suffered when He was tempted, He can help us when we’re tempted (v.18). He swallowed up death and gave us the victory (1Corinthians 15:50–58). His obedience to the Father accomplished our adoption, atonement, sanctification, reconciliation, redemption, and eventually, our glorification (Hebrews 2:10–13,17). He was made lower than the angels for a short time but everything will be fully subjected to Him in the end (Hebrews 2:7–9, Colossians 1:19–20).
Where is your attention fixed most days? Is it on a relationship, work, children, the phone, hardships, or longings? It’s amazing to think about how God is mindful of us, cares for us, and is concerned with the details of our lives (Hebrews 2:6). But the greatest way He’s shown this is by sending Jesus to bring many sons and daughters to glory. Fix your eyes on Jesus Christ and you won’t drift.
My attention has been on what I want not what God sees as best for me.
So glad you can dive in deep- it is worth the risk and the sacrifice! Be blessed!
“FIX OUR EYES ON JESUS CHRIST!!!!” He swallowed up death and gave us a victory! He is who we should seek every day!!
“FIX OUR EYES ON JESUS CHRIST!!!!”
Lynne, I am praying for you and your husband.
And to think.. so many of us feel we are unworthy and not good enough.. yet Jesus gave his life for each and every one of us.. HOW SPECIAL ARE WE?! If we are worthy of His love, then we are more than good enough for any worldly thing. Praying for everyone here who struggles with confidence and self image.
Where has my attention been? To be honest, my attention recently has been fixed on my pain, shortcomings, worries, fears, sicknesses, and challenges. I need to fix my eyes on Jesus more. What we focus on grows. I need to stop focusing on what I can’t do and focus on what He -can- do. Thank you Beverly for the beautiful devotional and for asking that reflection question.
@Donna Wolcott I also have the Jesus Calling devotional and it has been so helpful for me. You’re right – 10/18 did align nicely with today’s reading. It also spoke to me personally with a dilemma I’m facing and praying over. I will trust and leave it in God’s hands.
@Lynne from Alabama, please know that you and your husband are wrapped in God’s love and the faithful prayers of this beautiful SRT community. Praying as well for you both.
Thank you ladies who prayed for my health recovery. The sinus infection is almost gone, it’s just some coughing, stuffiness, and slight, occasional sinus pressure. I may go back to work tomorrow. I pray for my mother in law and brother in law, whom I live with and are still sick. My mom is also facing some physical and emotional challenges, please pray for her. I haven’t seen my parents for years, and it’s been rough being apart from them for so long.
Thank You Jesus that we have hope and peace when we rest in You and focus on You.
Lynne- praying for you, I can’t imagine how painful this is