brothers and sisters in Christ

Hebrews 13:1-3 – Care for Others

Read Hebrews 13:1-3

It seems the sermon has ended. Scholars have noted that this chapter seems almost like it’s written by another author. I see it as the Preacher stepping down from the pulpit and getting more relational in his conclusion, bringing up real life applications. He answers the question, “What does it look to be a Christian under the new covenant?”

First and foremost, we are encouraged to love one another as brothers and sisters. Jesus left us with a similar calling in John 15:12, “This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you.” Jesus loved us even deeper than as brothers and sisters. He gave his life for us. That’s close.

Hebrews 3:1-6 – Be the Church

Read Hebrews 3:1-6

We have seen the author speaking to the supremacy of Jesus in these first few chapters. However, today the focus shifts to a comparison of Jesus and Moses, through whom the law was given on Mt. Sinai. For the new Jewish believer (the original audience of this Book), Moses was a very important figure in Jewish tradition. It was Moses who was used by God to free their people from slavery as they were led to the promised land. I don’t believe this text was meant in any way to downplay Moses as the hero he was. Yet, we see again that Jesus’ power is greater than what we can already fathom.

The focus then shifts to God’s whole house, the church, and who is in charge. We are the church. Moses was a servant just as are we. Jesus built the church and is in charge of the church. It’s up to us to serve and to “keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ.” Sometimes that can be hard when the world closes in around us.

Hebrews 2:10-18 – You Are Chosen

Read Hebrews 2:10-18

Jesus is the Son of God, but we are also God’s children. “So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father.” We are chosen to be made holy. Let that sink in for just a moment. As children of God, we are recognized as brothers and sisters to Christ.

Old Testament prophecy comes alive as Jesus quoted the Psalms and Isaiah. He said to God: “I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters. I will praise you among your assembled people.” He also said, “I will put my trust in him,” that is, “I and the children God has given me.”