REPOSTToday’s AMI QT Devotional, written by Pastor David Kwon of Journey Community Church in Raleigh, was originally posted on October 17, 2016. He is a graduate of Drexel University (B.S.) and Columbia International University (M.Div.).
Devotional Thought for This Morning
“The Supremacy of Christ”
Hebrews 1:1-3
Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 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. 3 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
As a sports fan, I appreciate the greatness of an athlete in any sport. This summer, I got to watch some of the Rio Olympics and one particular night, I watched Katie Ledecky swim in the 400m women’s freestyle. Not only did she win the gold but also she smashed the world record as she dominated the race from start to finish. By the time she reached her final lap, it was evident that no was going to catch her. I watched swimming supremacy that night and it would be a race I will not forget.
The Book of Hebrews is about the Supremacy of Christ – how great and worthy he is! To speak of “supremacy” is to speak of that which is “above” or “over” others. It reaches the level of the “super.” In our language it refers to that which (or who) is greatest in power, authority, or rank. It is also used to describe that which is greatest in importance, significance, character, or achievement — the “ultimate.” The writer of Hebrews describes Jesus at that ‘ultimate’ throughout this book.
We should note how Jesus’s supremacy is described in these verses:
- Heir of all things (v.2) – Heir means “the one it’s all coming to.” As Creator he is heir to the universe.
- Creator (v. 2) – Jesus created all things and upholds it all by His power.
- Radiance (v. 3) – Like the sun, he is the source and radiator of divine glory
- Purifier (v. 3) – The One who once and for all paid for our sins in order to purify us
- Ruler (v. 3) – “Right hand of the Majesty on high”, which is a symbol of the place of highest honor. He is the supreme priest.
What a mighty God we worship and serve! As you start your week, spend time reflecting and mediating on the greatness and supremacy of Christ. As you do, may our hearts and desire be surrendered to him.
Prayer: Lord, there is none like you in all of the earth. You are holy, majestic and set apart and you will forever reign as Lord and King. I pray that I would respond in worship and praise. Amen.
Bible Reading for Today: 2 Chronicles 4
Lunch Break Study
Read Matthew 14:22-33: Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. 23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24 but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. 26 But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”28 And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” 29 He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” 31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Questions to Consider
- What is the reaction of the disciples when they saw Jesus?
- How does fear often hinder us from living by great faith?
- What do we learn about Jesus in this passage?
Notes
- They were terrified and responded in fear (v.26).
- When we live in fear, it distorts the power and character of Jesus in our lives. We often make Him too small, which hinders us from living by faith and not by sight.
- The disciples worshiped the Lord after they acknowledged his power and greatness (v.33). When we do the same, our natural response is worship.
Evening Reflection
Take some time reflecting on the passage you read today. What challenged you? Ask the Lord that the supremacy of Christ would be more evident in your life and heart.