Hebrews-2
The Call to Faith (Hebrews 2)
Introduction
The book of Hebrews is a rich and exhilarating rumination on the nature of Christ and faith. In chapter 2, the author eloquently expounds on the significance of Jesus' human nature and the call to faith. In this devotional study, we'll delve into the profound truths and insightful lessons hidden in this beautiful passage.
Section 1: Glory and Shame (Hebrews 2:1-4)
Devotional Thought: The author begins by contrasting glory and shame, reminding us that Christ came from the Father in a divine act of mercy and grace. Today, reflect on the Glory in the source of your faith-Christ Jesus. Ponder the truth that every believer is a bearer of His divine nature.
Reflection Questions:
- How does your understanding of Christ as the source of your faith affect your daily actions and thoughts?
- In what ways do you meditate on the glory of Christ's divine nature?
Section 2: Sharing in His Suffering (Hebrews 2:5-18)
Devotional Thought: The author raises a challenging idea here; to become a sharer in the divine nature, we must share in Jesus' sufferings. The author goes further to say that Christ is not ashamed to call us friends, as we suffer alongside Him. Today, consider the idea that a life of faith requires us to embrace suffering as a friend.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you reframe suffering as an opportunity for friendship with Christ?
- In what ways can you cultivate a spirit of friendship with Christ in trying times?
Section 3: The Word Made Flesh (Hebrews 2:14-18)
Devotional Thought: As the author pens down the truth that Jesus took on humanity, he points to a powerful truth. The Son of God came in flesh, treating us with utmost respect and tenderness. Today, take a moment to reflect on the idea that Jesus took humanity, a form that required respect and love.
Reflection Questions:
- How does your perception of Jesus as the Word made flesh affect your outlook on human nature?
- In what ways can you treat others how Christ treated humanity, with utmost respect and tender love?
Section 4: Orientation and Persistence (Hebrews 2:1-3)
Devotional Thought: The epistle's final phrase seems redundant, but it reveals an essential truth. Faith is an integral part of our lives, calling us to be oriented and persistent. The world may have at times, and may at times threaten to overpower our faith, but we must remain persistent in our faith.
Reflection Questions:
- How do you remain persistent and oriented in your faith today?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to strengthen your faith for persistence?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our study on Hebrews 2, let us take heart in the author's final words. Faith requires persistence and orientation towards Christ. May we, like the author, never shy away from the call to embrace Christ's human nature, share His sufferings as friends, respect human nature as it was treated by our Lord, and remain persistent and oriented in our faith.