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. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.1
Prior to the Messiah being revealed by God,2 the Jews were simply looking forward to his coming. They would receive prophecies concerning him; e.g., David would write them down in Psalms. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?3 But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by mankind and despised by the people. All who seek me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads; “He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!”4 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast; my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death. For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet—I can count al my bones—they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.5
I wonder if any of the Jews understood that David had written about Jesus? But to us who now have the Bible as our reference, these prophecies are familiar. We are reminded of the scenes during Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots.6 “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’”7 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have your forsaken me?”8
His disciples would have been most pitied had Jesus remained dead.9 But Jesus was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord,10 he has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having subjected to him.11
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.12
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, . . . let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. . . .13
Notes:
1. Hebrews 1:1-3
2. Matthew 3:17; Mark 1:11; Luke 2:10-12; John 1:29--34
3. Psalm 22:1
4. Psalm 22:6-8
5. Psalm 22:14-18
6. Matthew 27:35
7. Matthew 27:42-43
8. Matthew 27:46
9. 1 Corinthians 15:13-19
10. Romans 1:4
11. 1 Peter 3:22
12. Romans 1:18-19
13. Hebrews 10:19-25
