The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3 (New International Version)
Hebrews 1:3 speaks of Jesus as “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being.” This verse encapsulates the essence of Christ’s divine nature and His work in the world.
1. Radiance of Glory Just as the sun’s rays illuminate the earth, bringing warmth and light, Jesus is the radiance that emanates from God’s glory. He is not a separate light source but one with the Father, shining forth His love and truth. Imagine: consider a sunrise breaking the darkness of night; it’s not the sun itself we first see, but its radiance that transforms the sky.
2. Exact Representation An artist’s masterpiece reflects their skill and character. Similarly, Jesus is the “exact representation” of God’s nature. He embodies God’s attributes perfectly, showing us who God is through His life. Imagine: a sculpture is valued for how precisely it mirrors the original form. Jesus, as God’s “sculpture,” is the flawless image of the divine.
3. Sustaining All Things The verse concludes with Jesus “sustaining all things by his powerful word.” He is the force holding the universe together, from the smallest atom to the largest galaxy. Imagine: Gravity, an unseen force, keeps our feet planted on the ground. Jesus’ word is the spiritual gravity that maintains order in the cosmos.
In conclusion, Hebrews 1:3 invites us to see Jesus as the clear revelation of God’s glory, the perfect imprint of His essence, and the sustaining power of creation. As we reflect on this, let us draw nearer to Him in awe and worship, recognizing His majesty and the profound love He has for us.
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