Hebrews: Superiority of Christ
In his message, Stephen emphasizes the superiority and finality of Christ as presented in the book of Hebrews. Stephen highlights that God has spoken fully through His Son, Jesus Christ, contrasting this with the partial revelations given through the prophets. The key theme of Hebrews is the word "better," which appears 13 times, indicating that God offers something superior to the good things of Judaism. Stephen outlines various aspects where Christ is better: He is superior to angels, Moses, and the Levitical priesthood, and He establishes a better covenant with better promises. The message encourages believers to focus on Christ rather than the good things of the past, urging them to let go of lesser things to embrace the fullness of life in Christ. Stephen warns against being overly occupied with angels or human leaders, reminding the congregation that Christ is the ultimate authority and source of salvation. The practical application is to heed Christ's words and follow Him, leading to spiritual maturity and a deeper relationship with God.
Outline of Main Points
Introduction and Prayer
Finality of God's Revelation in Christ
Key Theme: "Better" in Hebrews
Christ's Superiority Over:
Angels
Moses
Levitical Priesthood
Better Covenant and Promises
Encouragement to Focus on Christ
Practical Application: Follow Christ for Spiritual Growth
1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
9 But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.
6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.
