Thank you to Ian for this week’s MWB
The unnamed writer of Hebrews, whether a man or a woman, had a rich understanding of God’s purposes and plan throughout the history of Israel. Thus we read about God’s only Son, Jesus, in Heb.2 v.14/15 – –
Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death – that is, the devil – and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.
Daily we are informed of mankind’s evil acts. Hidden behind such evil is the deceitful and destructive manipulation of the devil who uses and turns the self seeking arrogance of our human nature to act in direct opposition to God’s actions of love. In God’s love, we have been given freedom of choice but, as at the beginning, we are seduced by the devil’s offers of a brighter, self-managed and independent future. We choose our own way and reject God’s way thus we fall into sin. As Paul wrote – “We all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” And in another place – “The wages of sin is death.” How could God – free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death? – How could God free folk held captive in various forms of religious bondage through fear? – How could God demonstrate his love for those of this world who have rejected God’s way? – How could God reach out to mankind to reveal and offer his forgiveness and grace?
Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death. In that sentence we find the key to understanding the mystery of the birth and the death by crucifixion of God’s only Son, Jesus, and the glory of the resurrection. The price demanded for our sin was fully paid on the cross and eternal life was placed on offer to all mankind – to those who would turn to follow Jesus Christ, God’s beloved Son.
In 1 Cor.15 v.54/55 Paul quotes Isaiah and Hosea saying –
“Death has been swallowed up in victory. –
“Where, O death, is your victory? – – – Where, O death, is your sting?”
Paul then says – “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”