Lecture Notes: The Majesty of Christ – Hebrews Chapter 1

Introduction

• Welcome to GBC Live by Pastor Tim from Grace Bible Church, Menefee.
• Study focuses on the majesty of Christ in Hebrews chapter 1.
• Upcoming study dates: September 4, September 16, October 2, October 23.
• Streams available on Facebook or findhope.net/live.
• Text comments or questions to 951-809-3194.

Hebrews 1:1-3

• Text Reading:

  "Long ago, at many times and in many ways God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power."

Key Phrase for Tonight

• Focus on: "He upholds the universe by the word of his power."
• Both "he" and "his" refer to Jesus.
• Importance of understanding what it means that Jesus upholds all things.

Engagement Segment

• Pastor Tim invites thoughts on the phrase:
  • What does it mean?
  • Why does it matter?
• 2-minute pause for discussion or comments.

Review from Previous Studies

• Radiance of God's Glory
  • Climactic revelation of God is not through fire or angels, but through the Son who is God's glory.
  • Jesus represents the fullness of deity and character of God.

Upholds the Universe

• Universe refers to everything created, which is upheld by Jesus.
• Power (Dunamis) signifies strength and capability.

Word Study: "Upholds"

• Upholds (Pharaoh) has various meanings:
  • To carry from one place to another.
  • To sustain or maintain in a state.
  • Possible imagery of Atlas holding up the universe.

Characteristics of Jesus Upholding the Universe

1. Creator: Laws of the universe belong to Jesus.
2. Authority: Ruler and heir of all things.
3. Common Grace: Restraint of sin allows continued existence.
4. Patience with Humanity: Delays final judgment.
5. Holds Our Lives: Jesus holds our individual lives in His hands.

Movement Aspect of "Upholds"

• Jesus is not just holding up, but carrying forward the universe:
  1. Aligns with the Father's plans and purposes.
  2. Brings human history to its conclusion (Revelation).
  3. Presents the kingdom to the Father.
  4. Carries our individual lives forward towards maturity.

Practical Application

• Rhema: Specific words/statements of God sustain our lives (Matthew 4:4).
• Importance of being guided by God's Word in daily life.

Conclusion

• Reflecting on the majesty of Christ:
  • Importance of His sustaining power and movement in our lives.
• Next study scheduled for September 4.
• Encouragement to share the study.

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Reminder for Participants

• Communicate questions via comments or texts.
• Inviting others to join the study enhances community learning.