From: "Phil Rembleski" <PHIl@rescuechurchofchrist.org>

To: "1111RESCUEMEMBERS"

Cc:

Sent: Thu, Jul 27, 2023 at 5:26 AM

Subject: 7-27-23 THOUGHTS

7-27-23   THOUGHTS

In our reading this morning, we learn of the Son’s superiority to angels.  The preeminence of Jesus in God’s design is the subject of the first several chapters of Hebrews.  The first two chapters of Ephesians and Colossians also work with that theme.  Carefully examine what is said of Christ below.  Absorb it into your heart for good.  The words, “he has spoken to us by his Son” must be connected to “After making purification for sins”.   The CROSS and the RESURRECTION are the MESSAGE!  When you read “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature” think of  “He who has seen Me has seen the Father”  John 14:9.  Jesus’ part in the eternal plan to save man is powerfully stated from verse 10 on.  Don’t make more out of verse 14 than you can know, but I surely feel important when I read it!

Heb 1:1-14   ESV    Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets,  2  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. 3  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, 4  having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.  5  For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son, today I have begotten you"? Or again, "I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son"?  6  And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God’s angels  worship him."   7  Of the angels he says, "He makes his angels winds, and his ministers a flame of fire." 8  But of the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. 9  You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions." 10  And, "You, Lord, laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of your hands; 11  they will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment,  12  like a robe you will roll them up, like a garment they will be  changed. But you are the same, and your years will have no end."  13  And to which of the angels has he ever said, "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet"? 14  Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?

My Prayer:
Thank You for saving us, O God!  We are awed by the way You have accomplished that, O God. From start to eventual finish, Jesus is at the forefront.  There is no other by which we are saved. You are to be praised and honored and glorified.  May that be our purpose as we live.  Help us to see more clearly and powerfully this need and purpose in our spirits.  You have placed us in the Church of your Son, help us to see that Church as You see it, and serve in as You intend.  May we encourage one another in love and good works.      In Jesus' precious name,   Amen.