Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
December 11, 2022: SOAP #4756: Philemon; Hebrews 1-4

SCRIPTURE:  Hebrews (NIV) 2:16 For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants 17 For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

OBSERVATION:  These chapters at the beginning of the book of Hebrews give us a high appreciation for Jesus.  He came from heaven and is higher than the angels.  The Father calls Jesus God.  He is worthy of worship.  The earth and the heavens are the work of His hands!  

For God, to enjoy the fellowship with His creation, man’s sin must be properly atoned.  God’s holiness would be called into question if he allowed sinful man to escape hell because of some cheap substitute.  So, God, the Son, came to share our humanity and die the death of a sinful man.  To be the proper sacrifice for man’s sin, Jesus had “to be made like his brothers in every way!”  His sinless sacrifice pays for my sins, and your sins as we accept Him as our Savior and Lord! 

APPLICATION: We escape the pollutions of this world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  (2Peter 2:20)   We acknowledge Jesus as our Savior because He saves us from the result of sin.  We acknowledge Jesus as our LORD because He takes leadership and ownership of our lives.  We find joy and peace in fulfilling the purpose for which we were created! 

PRAYER:   Oh, Father, what a special blessing you sent to earth when Jesus was born in Bethlehem.  The more I meditate on the Christmas story, the more I am in awe of You.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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