Let’s take next steps in becoming fully devoted followers of Jesus, by looking at who Jesus is, how Jesus brings rest, and how we should respond, as seen in the book of Hebrews.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” – Hebrews 12:1-2
Look at Jesus: “the champion (trailblazer) who initiates and perfects our faith” – Hebrews 12:1-2
Trailblazer – “the one who causes something to begin” Founder, initiator, captain, prince, author ”one that takes the lead in any thing and thus affords an example, a predecessor in a matter, pioneer” “the hero of a city, who founded it, gave it its name, and became its guardian”
We find this word as part of the “big picture” the first followers of Jesus had of who Jesus is, in these passages: Acts 3:15, 5:31 Hebrews 2:10, 12:2.
What is the journey of Jesus, as Trailblazer?
1 Before his glory, Jesus led the way into low status, suffering, rejection, and death. (read Hebrews 2:9-18)
2 Jesus blazed a trail through suffering and death, the pioneering victor over death and sin. (read Hebrews 2:9-18)
3 Jesus made a way into God’s presence. ( Hebrews 4:14-16, 6:19-20, 10:19-20, 12:2)
Picture of Jesus as High Priest, making a way for us into God’s presence, helps us understand the implication of Jesus as Trailblazer. (read Hebrews 4:14-16, 10:19-25)
In a close relationship when one person betrays the other it can become, “I can’t even be in the same room with you.” Jesus Christ has made a way for us to be in the room with God. We are now able to “go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him.” It is a place of wholehearted loving relationship. In this way, we can “receive mercy, grace to help us when we need it most”.
How should we respond this week?
- Write your own description of: who Jesus is, and what Jesus has done.
- Pray in response to these truths.
- Tell someone about who Jesus is to you.