Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8 AMP
The Context and Focus:
It is not always clear who wrote the book of Hebrews, but it is generally credited to Paul. The messages in the book range from the authority and Lordship of Jesus, to the events around his priesthood and passion, and what the expectations for those who have made up their minds to follow Jesus are. It is very important for me to sit down, review and determine the cost of the decision to follow Jesus, so that I can make an informed decision. I cannot afford to get on the path and then decide to get out sometime in the middle of the journey. This is a call that all of us must respond to at a point in time in our lives. It is a call that remains in place for as long as we have this earthly life. This then means that it is a call that is timed, and will expire at the time set by God's divine purpose. We don't have forever to make up our minds; we have forever to live with the consequences of our decisions. How do I know what the will or mind of God for me is? How do I know if i am making the right decision?
The Message:
One very fundamental way to know what the right step is will be to know and understand the person you are invited to follow. The Word of God gives us clear and adequate information about the name, identity and nature of the God who seeks to call us to Himself. The same book also speaks quite extensively about the mission and purpose of Jesus. He came to the earth as human, and he submitted to the cross as part of God's divine purpose for him. His death on the cross and his resurrection give us insight into his plam for us to also be reconciled back to God. This is very important, because it is the only thing that guarantees we get the full benefits of the life of Jesus. We get other things, such as protection, provision, guidance and help, but the most important is salvation. Without it, all the other benefits are good for just a short while. I do not want to enjoy all the benefits promised, and then have no eternal life secured for me. Of what use is a life that men celebrate, but there is no use for that life when the earthly phase has ended?
The Conclusion:
This is why today's verse is critical. The same message Jesus came to preach is still valid today. The benefits and blessings he referred to back in the days when he walked the earth are still valid today. The same things he called sin back in those days are still sins today. No amount of education, enlightenment, expense or earnings can change what God called sin into anything else. I must come to God on these terms, because he will not change or lower the standards for anyone. Whatever it is you learn about Him, from a personal encounter, becomes the lessons that will sustain you through all the experiences that are ahead. He does not change, which is why he is reliable and dependable. He takes my past, molds it into something he can use in the present, whilst also making sure that my future is secure. He is not like shifting shadows, and even though you might call him unpredictable, because you cannot put him in a box or determine how he may act, you can be sure that his standards will not fail. This gives me joy, because I know whom I have come to believe, and I am persuaded that he will keep me to the end. That is confidence. Do you have the same mind? God's time of favour is here.
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