From the beginning the author of Hebrews wastes no time to introduce the theme that Jesus is better. If the author was a friend that you sat across from coffee, imagine taking that first sip and your friend just unloads all these facts that connect dots from events hundreds of years apart. What you hear slowly begins to connect, but it is a lot of information, and your coffee has yet to kick in. Then your friend stares back at you waiting for your response. This is what I picture in the first two chapters of Hebrews.

In the first chapter, the common thread of many versus one is how each example ties together to proclaim Jesus is better than prophets, priests, angels, and everyone else that comes to mind. The author draws from the Old Testament to build his argument. God spoke through many prophets in the past but chose to speak through one Jesus who upholds the universe by the word of his power. The description of the preeminence of Jesus in 1:2-6 reminds me of Colossians 1:15-23. There are many kings and kingdoms, but God says in 1:8 that the throne of the Son of God will last forever. Although the author references angels and their many duties as ministers and helpers, it is clear in 1:-5-6, there is one Son of God and his name is Jesus. I have an admiration and conviction reading the quotes from the Old Testament because the author of Hebrews really knows his Bible. It is one truth after another spilled out. Could I do that? Do I meditate on the Word of God to be able to pull out truth like we see in Hebrews? It is impressive and inspiring.

The “how” and “why” Jesus is better is explained in the Old Testament quotes. As the Son of God, Jesus is the exact imprint or perfect match to God the Father. He came to earth on mission according to John 3:16-21 that no one else could accomplish. Jesus is anointed by God the Father (1:9) and because Jesus is everlasting that means he has no end (1:12). This good news builds a strong foundation for salvation which leads into Hebrews 2. Salvation comes through Jesus the Son of God who is given authority, control, and dominion over everything (2:8). Those who receive the gift of salvation are warned in Hebrews 2:1-4 not to drift but to hold fast to it. How is it possible to hold fast to salvation? The author says to be attentive, which requires setting yourself free of distractions to hear from God when you study his Word. Another way I saw in the passage is to change your motivations and behaviors because you believe Jesus is the Son of God, you believe Jesus saved you, and you believe Jesus is better than everything else.

When I read Hebrews 2:14-18, I made a list of physical actions done by Jesus out of love for you and me. One action is Jesus came down from heaven to earth and put on human flesh as obedience to the will of God (2:14,17). This act alone is supernatural and full of humility. Jesus chooses to live in obedience under God the Father. This obedience includes Jesus’ suffering for you and me which leads to another action in 2:14-15. Jesus delivers you and me that were oppressed under sin by destroying the power of death. Who has the power to do that? Jesus, the Son of God. This means those who receive the gift of salvation, no longer live in slavery but in freedom according to Galatians 5:1. The last action on my list is from 2:18 where Jesus endured temptation so that he can help, or run to us, when we are tempted. Why would Jesus do that? You and I are created in the image of God. Jesus is savior, victor, and helper in this passage. Even though I skipped a few actions on my list, hopefully you see the tangible ways Jesus is better. Maybe your list includes acts of love from Jesus that I missed.

The letter of Hebrews is filled with rich truth like we see in Hebrews 1-2. Our friend, the author, wants the good news to sink into our souls. The many prophets, angels, and priests were replaced by the one Jesus, Son of God. He is better. Are the dots connecting? Do you feel the incredible impact of how this changes eternity for you and me? Maybe you received the gift of salvation years ago. Is the truth stirring a new response from you today? My hope is that you make the time, grab a cup of coffee, and be still with God as we journey through Hebrews together.

Question: Hebrews talks about Jesus as the Son of God and founder of salvation. Which attribute of Jesus mentioned in Hebrews 1-2 is hard to wrap your mind around? Which attribute are you the most grateful for?