The Journeys of Hebrews

The book of Hebrews is ultimately a journey with Jesus. A journey that begins with who He is, leads us through what He has done, and ends with how we are called to live.

Hebrews first lifts our eyes to Jesus, the Son, the fullest revelation of God. He is also our High Priest, compassionate and able to understand our weaknesses. He becomes the perfect sacrifice, offering Himself once for all to deal with sin. His torn body becomes the veil through which we now have confident access to the presence of God. He is the Mediator of a better covenant, bringing us to God. And finally, He is the Pioneer and Perfecter of our faith, going ahead of us and bringing our faith toward completion.

This is Jesus' journey, and it becomes the foundation of ours.

Hebrews 12:2 gives us the hinge: “Looking unto Jesus.” We do not walk this road alone, nor do we create the path ourselves. Jesus has gone ahead; we follow Him.

Our journey therefore begins with DRAW NEAR, coming confidently into God's presence. Then comes FAITH, trusting the One who has promised. We ENDURE when the road becomes difficult, recognizing that hardship can become God's training ground. Through that discipline we pursue HOLINESS, allowing His character to be formed in us. And throughout the journey, we keep LOOKING to Jesus: our hope, example and strength.

The destination is UNSHAKABLE: a kingdom that cannot be shaken.

But Hebrews does not leave this journey in the realm of doctrine. Hebrews 13 brings it into everyday conduct. Because God says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” we can say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear.”

And when faith in God's faithfulness replaces fear, something profound happens within us. We no longer need to build our security around possessions, achievement or self-protection. Covetousness can give way to contentment; fear can give way to courage; self-centredness can give way to generosity, hospitality, compassion and faithfulness.

Galatians 2:20 captures the heart of this co-journey: “I have been crucified with Christ… Christ lives in me.” The Cross is therefore not merely the bridge between Jesus' journey and ours, it is where our lives are joined to His.

Jesus goes ahead. We follow. We look to Him, trust Him, endure with Him, and are formed into His likeness.

And because His kingdom cannot be shaken, we can live differently, not by fear, but by faith.