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Hebrews 2 (ESV)
Warning Against Neglecting Salvation
2 Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. 2 For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, 3 how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard, 4 while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.
The Founder of Salvation
5 For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. 6 It has been testified somewhere, “What is man, that you are mindful of him, or the son of man, that you care for him? 7 You made him for a little while lower than the angels; you have crowned him with glory and honor, 8 putting everything in subjection under his feet.” Now in putting everything in subjection to him, he left nothing outside his control. At present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to him. 9 But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. 10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. 11 For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, 12 saying, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.” 13 And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again, “Behold, I and the children God has given me.” 14 Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. 16 For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. 17 Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Of the three titles given in this passage (brother, author of salvation, high priest) which one means the most to you right now?
Precious Jesus, You are the King of all Kings and the Lord of all Lords. But you are not like some royalty to be honored at a distance, You are personal. Jesus, You are the Son of God. By the new birth of Your Spirit, I am an adopted child of God. In a weird way, that makes us Holy siblings. During times of uncertainty, fear, and troubles, it brings me comfort that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me and a Savior Brother who I can have a personal intimate relationship with. I trust You will protect me and comfort me as a loved member of God’s family. During worship, Jesus, You are more than the greatest priest or pastor there ever was. You tore open the curtain that created a barrier for the Holy place where the high priest went to do the sacrifice and incense for the sake of others. Instead of doing something on behalf of me, You come directly into the worship to touch my heart and speak to me personally. I now come directly to You with my sins and bring my petitions to You, and You personally intercede to God for and with me. Thank You for those unique and wonderful relationship gifts that You have given me. There is one thing where You are like no other, that can’t be compared to anyone human such as a brother, or a high priest. You are the author of salvation. Jesus, You are the source of my great salvation. You knew I needed a Savior and You had the perfect plan. You suffered on that cross and paid the price for my sins. You are the one and only spotless lamb that could be offered as the ultimate sacrifice. You are the Author, the Pioneer, the Trailblazer, the Forerunner, going before me to eternal salvation. You have cleared the path for me to be with You for eternity. I am thankful for Your intimate relationship, for priestly worship, but mostly for Your mercy, grace, forgiveness, your great love, and the hope of eternal salvation that You have given me. To You be the Glory, Honor, and Praise, forever and ever. Amen.