Day –  317

Jesus is better than the best

_Read: Ezekiel 23,24; Psalm 134; Hebrews 8_

 *Scripture:* Hebrews 8: 6 But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises.

 *Observation:* When Christians go through persecution and hear confusing and misleading teachings from others, questions of faith may arise in their minds. At times, they may wonder whether their present faith is better than the previous religious belief. Jewish Christians would have been in such a state. Because of their faith in Jesus Christ, they were persecuted. If only they had said that they believed in the law of Moses, they could have avoided persecution from the Jews who were very proud of Judaism. One of the key themes in the Epistle to the Hebrews is that Jesus is better than the angels, the prophets, and Moses; his priesthood is superior to even that of Aaron; The new covenant of Jesus is better than the old covenant; his promises are better than the previous ones. Hebrews 8:6 gives a summary statement about the superiority of Christ.

What prompts us to say Jesus is better than the best? Jesus is better than all the prophets because God’s revelation through Jesus is superior than all, and he is the Son of God. Angels are God’s creation and ministering spirits to serve those who receive salvation. But through the Son, God “made the universe,” and angels are to worship him. So Jesus is better than the angels. Moses was a faithful servant in God’s house. But, Jesus is the faithful Son and builder of God’s house. Therefore, he is better than Moses. He is the LORD of the Sabbath. Jesus’ priesthood is not limited to time and place. There is no need to offer animal sacrifice and wait for the day of atonement. Christ offered himself as the sacrifice to make the atonement with God and pay the price for our sins. Christ’s role and participation in the New Covenant make it better than the Old Covenant. In the new covenant, God puts his words in our minds and writes in our hearts. The old covenant emphasized works, but the new covenant is based on the grace of God. Further, Jesus serves as the mediator between God and humanity. Likewise, we can say many things about the superiority of Jesus. God gives us a new and better covenant; the ministry of Jesus is superior than others. Jesus’ promises are better than any Old Testament promises. Jesus has everything we need. Referencing verses from the Old Testament, the scripture for Jews, the author of Hebrews proves that Jesus is the best person. The Bible invites us “to taste and see that the Lord is good” (Ps.34:8).

*Application:* I can speak and write many things about the supremacy and greatness of Jesus Christ. But it must come from my heart and relationship with Christ. When I say, “Jesus is better than the best,” it should not be an empty slogan. My life should testify to what I claim about Jesus. Tasting God’s love and grace, I live under the new covenant of Christ.

*Prayer:* Father God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus Christ to save us. Thank you for giving me your best. Lord, help me to meditate your words to know more about your love and come near you. “May your good Spirit lead me on level ground” (Ps.143:10). Amen.

✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️  Day –  317