Today's Scripture:Christ is the mediator of the new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance - now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.
Hebrews 9:15
Words like mediator, covenant, and inheritance in the book of Hebrews give the impression of a legal document. Actually, the entire book of Hebrews as I learned when studying under Colman Markham differs in writing style from the rest of the letters in the New Testament. It's unknown author presents a thesis-like case, methodically stating why faith in Jesus is a logical and God designed spiritual progression from Judaism.
The verse at the heart of what the author wanted his readers to understand proclaims that Jesus is both a mediator, "someone who makes peace between tow parties," and a testator, "someone who determines the conditions and benefits of the inheritance he leaves behind." The words testament and covenant are interchangeable. The Old Testament and the New Testament could just as easily be called the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, since the two parts of the Bible really focus on covenant. Under the Old Covenant, or Old Testament, God accepted the sacrifice of animals as a way to cover up the wrongs people had done. Under the New Covenant, the wrongs were permanently erased by a different kind of sacrifice - Jesus's gift of his own life.
A last will and testament is valid only after someone dies, and then it is irrevocable. That means Jesus's death guaranteed your inheritance.
Jesus saved your life by substituting his own in payment for every wrong you've ever done and ever will do.
Because of this, you will receive what you never could have earned on your own - the ultimate freedom of living a life that never ends.
Selah people' and friends Jesus's testament to you and I is not only a guarantee, but it is also a true source of encouragement. When God makes a promise, it's like a legal document. He will fulfill every word.
"Peace be with you as you remember that God has an eternal inheritance waiting for you and for me."
Your pastor,
Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)
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