Category Archives: Hebrews

Love, Marriage and Money (Hebrews 13; 2 Timothy 1)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – Hebrews 13; 2 Timothy 1

Our journey through the Epistle to the Hebrews concludes with today’s Scripture reading, Hebrews 13. The author has reminded the believers of the saving faith of their forefathers (naming many of the great patriarchs in Israel’s history; Hebrews 11). In chapter 12, he challenged the saints to keep the faith (12:1) and focus upon Christ, “looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith” (12:2). The believers were exhorted to accept God’s chastening, for like a loving earthly father, the Lord chastens His people that their lives might yield “the peaceable fruit of righteousness” (12:11). With a reminder, “God is a consuming fire” (12:29), the writer of Hebrews closed chapter 12 by urging believers to revere the Lord and fear His displeasure.

Today’s devotional is taken from Hebrews 13:1-6.

Hebrews 13

In the closing verses of his letter, the author addressed several topics that are personal and practical in nature.

The Believer’s Relationship with the Congregation (13:1-3)

The first topic was the believer’s conduct within the congregation and was addressed in three exhortations: “Let brotherly love continue” (13:1); in other words, love is the bond that binds us as brothers and sisters in Christ. The second exhortation regarded the ministry of hospitality (13:2). Believers are not only to love one another; we are also to show hospitality and love for strangers. Imagine, there may come a time when, like Abraham in Genesis 19, you will serve “angels unawares” (13:2). Lastly, believers are to love those in prison (remember, seasons of persecution would see many confined to prisons, 13:3).

An Exhortation to Purity and Contentment (13:4-6)

“Marriage is Honourable” (13:4)

Roman society in the first century was not much different from our own. Believers who read this epistle were confronted by gross immorality. Sexual promiscuity and sodomy were ever present in the Roman world. Sadly, 21st century society has followed the same path of moral erosion, and attacked marriage as an institution. Liberal judges and politicians have impaled our homes with the whims of political correctness, and introduced a moral decadence that now threatens to destroy not only our families, but our nation.

The author admonished believers, “4Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” (13:4). While society has changed, be forewarned, God has not changed. Our Creator founded and established marriage as a sacred institution between one woman and one man (Genesis 2:23-24), and none dare defile it by sexual immorality without risking the wrath and judgment of God (13:3).

Be Content (13:5-6)

Covetousness was another sin addressed by the writer (13:5). Understanding the word “conversation” implied one’s conduct or way of life, we read: “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have” (13:5a). While the world of 1st century believers was different than our own, the problem of a covetous, money-loving nature was the same. In his letter to Timothy, Paul observed, “they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition” (1 Timothy 6:9). The apostle continued, “For the love of money is the root of all evil,” warning many had coveted, and were “pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Timothy 6:10).

Closing thoughts – Rather than trust in riches that take wings and fly away (Proverbs 23:5), we should place our faith in the Lord, who has said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (13:5b). Only then might we face the world, and “boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (13:6).

If only believers would learn, happiness will never be found in money or possessions.

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Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Do You Have Faith? (Hebrews 11; Hebrews 12)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotional.

Scripture reading – Hebrews 11; Hebrews 12

Hebrews 11 and 12 are pivotal chapters in our study of the Epistle to the Hebrews.  While earlier chapters have been heavily weighted with the great doctrines of our faith, the two chapters before us are historical, practical, and inspiring. Our devotional will be taken from Hebrews 11.

Hebrews 11 is known to people of faith as the Bible’s “Hall of Faith.” Though only forty verses in length, some of the great giants of faith are recorded here. The faith of Abel, Enoch, and Noah are given to encourage believers in extraordinary faith (11:4-8). The legacy of Abraham’s faith, his obedience, patience, and enduring faith are described for all to have confidence in what the Lord promises, He will perform (11:8-19).

We find the character of true faith. (11:23-28)

The fearless faith portrayed by the parents of Moses, who refused to be “afraid of the king’s commandment” (11:23). Then, Moses, following their example, placed his faith in the God of Israel, rejected the world, and refused “to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter” (11:24). The faith of Moses also instructs us regarding the sacrificial, hopeful, and abiding nature of faith (11:25-27). He “forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king,” for his eyes were upon the Lord (11:27). When the death angel came to slay the firstborn of Egypt, Moses instructed the people to keep the Passover, “and the sprinkling of blood” (11:28).

Hebrews 11:29-31 reminded believers that people of faith trust God, even when circumstances seem unreasonable.

With the Red Sea before Israel, and Pharaoh’s army behind them, Moses called upon Israel, and said, “Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord…The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace” (Exodus 14:13-14). What powerful lessons in faith we find recorded here! From Israel passing through the Red Sea (11:29), to the walls of Jericho collapsing, sparing only the harlot Rahab and her family because she “received the spies [of Israel],” and believed God. (11:30-31)

Examples of heroic faith (11:32-40) are given, and all they suffered and endured (11:35-37). They were courageous, and trusted God would provide the salvation He promised (11:39). They believed the Lord would provide them better than this world could afford (11:40).

Closing thoughts – Before I conclude today’s devotional, it behooves me to define faith, and ask the question:

Do you have faith? (11:1-3)

To my knowledge, the only definition of faith in the Scriptures is found in the first three verses of Hebrews 11. Verse 1 gives us a twofold aspect of faith: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (11:1).

Faith encompasses confidence and conviction.

First, faith is “the substance” (a settled confidence and assurance) of things hoped for” (a lively expectation). Secondly, faith is “the evidence (conviction) of things not seen” (not yet seen or come to pass). Faith, then, is not something I hope might come to pass, but a settled conviction of something I have assurance will come to pass (11:1).

Notice also how faith will be rewarded. We read, for “by it (faith) the elders” (meaning the ancient patriarchs whose names and examples will follow, 11:4-38), “obtained a good report” (11:2, 39). The names of the “elders” recorded in the verses that followed were given as a testimony and encouragement to all people of faith.

Finally, we are given the foundation and object of our faith:

“Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (11:3). A man’s faith is only as good as the object of his faith. Some men put faith in an idol of stone, clay, wood, or precious metals. Others put faith in themselves (intellect, reasoning, and works). Some put faith in other men, their promises and assurances. Others put faith in religion, their church, and traditions.

The believer’s faith is in His Creator, who spoke the world into existence by His Word (11:3a; Genesis 1). How can we know God exists, and He created the world? By faith. We believe God revealed Himself to man by His creation (Psalm 19:1-3). We did not see the world created, but we see everywhere His handywork. Lastly, it is by faith that we believe God has a place prepared for His children, “an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Corinthians 5:1; John 14:1-3).

I urge you to be a student of God’s Word (Romans 10:17). Listen to faithful men who believe, and preach God’s Word. But remember, God alone is worthy of your faith.

Do you have faith?

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Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Salvation: Faith in the Sufficiency of Christ’s Sacrifice (Hebrews 10)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotional.

Scripture reading – Hebrews 10

Our study of the Epistle to the Hebrews continues with chapter 10. The writer of the letter appealed to his brethren to consider the superiority of Christ’s sacrifice to the sacrifices required by the law. After warning his brethren, “it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (9:27), the author declared the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice, writing: “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation” (9:28).

Hebrews 10

The Insufficiency of Animal Sacrifices (10:1-4)

Perhaps some who professed to be followers of Christ, were considering returning to the sacrifices of the Temple. The writer reminded his readers, “the law …can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect” (10:1).

Why offer animal sacrifices year after year, when they could not “make the comers [sinners] thereunto perfect” (whole or guiltless in God’s judgment)? (10:1) Answer—the sacrifices were “a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things” (10:1a). In other words, animal sacrifices were a type, a picture of Christ, and served as a constant reminder of man’s need to be forgiven and restored to God (10:3-4).

God’s Plan – Christ Offered His Body for Man’s Sin (10:5-10)

Why did Christ come “into the world?” (10:5) To answer that question, the writer of Hebrews quoted a psalm of David that read, “Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: 6In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure” (10:5-6; Psalm 40:6). The words recorded by David in Psalm 40:6-8 were the words of Christ, placed in the heart of the king, and penned under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21).

David acknowledged, and the writer of Hebrews confirmed, only the sacrifice of Christ, whose body the Lord had prepared for Him (10:5b), was sufficient to atone for man’s sin. Therefore, Christ declared, “Lo, I come to do thy will, O God” (10:8; Psalm 40:8). To what end did Christ come? That He might take “away the first [the pattern of animal sacrifices], that he may establish the second. 10By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (10:9b-10).

Christ Sat Down (10:11-14)

The priests were continually standing and offering sacrifices for sins, which could “never take away sins” (10:11). Christ, however, “offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God” (10:12). In an earlier devotion I explained what it meant when Christ “sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high” (Hebrews 1:3). Sitting down beside the throne of God the Father implied Christ’s sacrifice and death satisfied God’s judgment and demand for justice. Understanding “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23a), only one thing could satisfy God’s judgment…the shedding of blood and death (9:22, 28).

After His resurrection, Jesus Christ sits enthroned in heaven, and awaits the day His enemies will be defeated and “made His footstool” (10:13; Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 1:13; 2:8). For believers, there is nothing lacking in our salvation, “for by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified” (10:14).

Closing thoughts – Our redemption and forgiveness of sins is “perfect,” complete, finished, and lacks for nothing. There is nothing we can add to Christ’s sacrifice and grace…our sins are forgiven, our sin debt to God has been marked, “Paid in Full,” by the blood of Christ. We are in the sight of God, “sanctified,” and we are to be holy, and righteous. What the sacrifices of the Old Testament could not do, Christ completed because He took upon Him the guilt of our sin, and bore God’s judgment.

A closing observation: When the Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30). They answered, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” (Acts 16:31). Have you made that decision? Won’t you believe, and trust Christ as your Savior?

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

 

What is in Your Heart? (Hebrews 8-9) – A video daily devotional.

Summary of today’s video devotional: The New Covenant is the subject of Hebrews 8, and continues the revelation that Christ is our High Priest, and “is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens” (8:1). As our High Priest, Christ “is the mediator of a better [stronger] covenant, which was established upon better [stronger] promises” (8:6).

A covenant is only good when both parties keep their vows. The prophet Jeremiah, quoted in Hebrews 8:8-11, observed how the children of Israel had broken covenant with God. Like a wife who betrays her vows and breaks her marriage covenant, Israel had failed to keep her covenant with God. Knowing Christ has established a “Covenant” by His blood, we are confident He is our High Priest and Mediator, and sits “on the right hand of the throne.”

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Was ist in deinem Herzen? (Hebräer 8; Hebräer 9)

* English speaking friends, the following is a German translation of today’s devotional from HeartofAShepherd.com.

Schriftlesung – Hebräer 8; Hebräer 9  

Wir setzen unser Studium des Hebräerbriefes (Kapitel 8 und 9) fort und werden an den zweifachen Fokus dieser Passage erinnert: Christus, der Hohepriester der Gläubigen; und der Neue Bund, den Er etabliert.  

Der Verfasser in Hebräer 7 bemerkte, wie Jesus „zum Bürgen eines besseren Testaments gemacht“ wurde (Hebräer 7:22). Das Wort „Testament“ war ein juristischer Begriff, der einen Bund beschrieb. Sie könnten zum Beispiel einen „Letzten Willen und ein Testament“ aufsetzen, das effektiv ein Bund ist. Ein solches Dokument ist eine verbindliche rechtliche Vereinbarung zwischen zwei Parteien. Der Zweck eines „letzten Willens und Testaments“ besteht darin, Ihre Absichten (Plan) zur Verteilung Ihres Besitzes nach Ihrem Tod zu lenken. (Leider gierige Verwandte und korrupte Anwälte schienen den gesetzlosen Geist unserer Zeit angenommen zu haben und wenig Respekt vor Testamenten, Testamenten oder Vereinbarungen zu haben.) 

Glücklicherweise ist Gott nicht nur der Gesetzgeber, sondern auch ein gerechter Richter und vergebender Hohepriester. Wir lesen von Christus: „Er kann auch bis zum Äußersten retten, die durch ihn zu Gott kommen, da er ihn immer sieht lebt, um für sie einzutreten.“ Christus ist mehr als unser Fürsprecher (Hebräer 7:24-25), er ist unser Erretter und Erlöser. Während die Priester des Alten Bundes Opfer für ihre Sünden und die Menschen darbrachten, „opferte Christus sich selbst“ (Hebräer 7:27) und errichtete einen Neuen Bund (Hebräer 8).

Hebräer 8

Ein erhabener Hohepriester und ein neuer Bund (Hebräer 8:1-2)

Der Neue Bund ist das Thema von Kapitel 8 und setzt die Offenbarung fort, dass Christus unser Hohepriester ist und „zur Rechten des Throns der Majestät in den Himmeln sitzt“ (Hebräer 8:1). Irdische Priester waren Typen oder Symbole des höheren Hohepriesters Jesus Christus. Aufgrund seines Opfertodes, seines stellvertretenden Todes und seiner Auferstehung von den Toten ist Jesus unser Priester und dient in der himmlischen „wahren Stiftshütte, die der Herr errichtet hat und nicht ein Mensch“ (Hebräer 8,2).

Eine untere Stiftshütte (Hebräer 8:3-5)

Wir finden einen Kontrast zwischen der von Moses erbauten irdischen Stiftshütte und dem himmlischen, ewigen Heiligtum, wo Christus der Hohepriester der Gläubigen ist. Da Christus nicht aus dem Stamm Levi stammte, hätte er nicht als irdischer Priester gedient. Die Priester von Levi opferten das Blut von Opfern während Israels Wanderungen in der Wüste. Einmal im Jahr darf nur der Hohepriester das „Allerheiligste“ betreten, und dann nur mit dem Opferblut, „das er für sich selbst geopfert hat“ (Hebräer 9,7). Obwohl Mose den Bau der Stiftshütte gemäß den Mustern leitete, die Gott ihm gab (Hebräer 8:5b), war das, was bereitgestellt wurde, ein „Typus“, ein „Beispiel und Schatten der himmlischen Dinge“ (Hebräer 8:5).

Israel brach den Alten Bund (Hebräer 8:6-9)

Beachten Sie in Vers 6 die Adjektive „ausgezeichnet“ und „besser“. Als unser Hohepriester ist Christus „der Mittler eines besseren [stärkeren] Bundes, die auf bessere [stärkere] Verheißungen gegründet wurde“ (Hebräer 8:6). Irdische Priester waren Christus unterlegen, der sich als vollkommenes, ausreichendes Opfer für die Sünden darbot. Die Schwäche oder „Schuld“ des „alten Bundes“ (Hebräer 8:7) war nicht der Bund, sondern die Sündhaftigkeit der Menschen (einschließlich der Priester).

Lektion – Ein Bund ist nur dann gut, wenn beide Parteien ihre Gelübde halten. Wenn zum Beispiel ein Mann und eine Frau heiraten, binden sie sich in einem „Ehebund“. Gott und andere Anwesende sind Zeugen ihrer Gelübde (Versprechen), und das Paar tauscht Ringe als Zeichen ihres Bundes aus. Tragischerweise werden mehr als 50 % der Ehebündnisse schließlich gebrochen, weil entweder der Ehemann oder die Ehefrau es versäumen, den Bund zu halten, nicht nur mit ihrem Ehepartner, sondern auch mit Gott und denen, die Zeuge ihres Austauschs der Gelübde waren.

Der in Hebräer 8:8-11 zitierte Prophet Jeremia beobachtete, wie die Kinder Israels den Bund mit Gott gebrochen hatten (Jeremia 31:31-34). Wie eine Frau, die ihre Gelübde verrät und ihren Ehebund bricht, hatte Israel es versäumt, seinen Bund mit Gott zu halten. In den Tagen Jeremias war Israel nicht nur eine geteilte Nation geworden, sondern ihr Götzendienst und ihr Versäumnis, das Gesetz und die Gebote zu halten, hatten der Nation Gottes Segen geraubt (Deuteronomium 28; Exodus 31).

Die Verheißung eines neuen Bundes (Hebräer 8:10-13)

Wenn die Menschen den ersten Bund gehalten hätten, wäre ein zweiter Bund nicht nötig gewesen (Hebräer 8,7b). Da Israel jedoch seinen Bund mit dem HERRN nicht gehalten und sein Gesetz missachtet hatte, sah Gott die Notwendigkeit voraus, einen „Bund“ zu schließen und Christus als ewigen Hohepriester zu dienen (Hebräer 8,10).

Der erste Bund verlangte von außen Gehorsam, das Halten des geschriebenen Gesetzes und das Darbringen von Opfern. Der Herr versprach unter dem „Neuen Bund“, Er würde „setzen [Seine] Gesetze in ihren Sinn und schreibe sie in ihre Herzen: und ich werde für sie ein Gott sein, und sie werden für mich ein Volk sein“ (was sich im Tausendjährigen Königreich erfüllen wird, Hebräer 8:10). Mit anderen Worten, Gläubige sollten, motiviert durch ihre Liebe und Gemeinschaft mit dem Herrn, den Bund mit Gott halten. Der alte Bund hing von irdischen Priestern ab, die Opfer darbrachten und als Vermittler zwischen Gott und den Menschen fungierten (Hebräer 8,11a). Unter dem „Neuen Bund“ wird jeder Gläubige vor den Herrn kommen, „denn alle werden es wissen [Ihn], vom Geringsten bis zum Größten“ (Hebräer 8:11).

Schlussgedanken (Hebräer 8:12-13) – Während der Alte Bund Vergebung durch Blutopfer darstellte, versprach der „Neue Bund“ Gottes Barmherzigkeit und Vergebung der Sünden (Hebräer 8,12). Da wir wissen, dass Christus durch sein Blut einen „Bund“ errichtet hat, sind wir daher zuversichtlich, dass er unser Hohepriester und Mittler ist und „zur Rechten des Throns“ sitzt. Nachdem sie verstanden haben, dass der „Neue Bund“ den alten ersetzt hat (Hebräer 8,13), sollten Gläubige sich daran erfreuen, den Grundsätzen und Geboten des Wortes Gottes zu gehorchen und auf seine Gnade und seine Verheißungen vertrauen.

Nur wenn Sie Gottes Wort studieren und darüber meditieren, werden seine Wahrheiten Ihr Herz beherrschen. Was ist in deinem Herz?

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What is in Your Heart? (Hebrews 8; Hebrews 9)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotional.

Scripture reading – Hebrews 8; Hebrews 9

We continue our study of the Epistle to the Hebrews (chapters 8 and 9), and are reminded of the twofold focus of this passage: Christ, the believer’s High Priest; and the New Covenant which He established.

The writer in Hebrews 7 observed how Jesus was “made a surety of a better testament” (7:22). The word “testament,” was a legal term that described a covenant. For example, you might draw up a “Last Will and Testament,” that is effectively a covenant. Such a document is a binding legal agreement between two parties. The purpose of a “Last Will and Testament” is to direct your intentions (plan) for distributing your possessions upon your death. (Unfortunately, greedy relatives and crooked lawyers seemed to have embraced the lawless spirit of our day, and have little respect for wills, testaments, or covenants.)

Fortunately, God is not only the Lawgiver, He is also a just Judge, and forgiving High Priest. We read of Christ, “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Christ is more than our intercessor (7:24-25), He is our Savior and Redeemer. While the priests of the Old Covenant offered sacrifices for their sins and the people, Christ “offered up Himself” (7:27), and established a New Covenant (Hebrews 8).

Hebrews 8

A Superior High Priest, and A New Covenant (8:1-2)

The New Covenant is the subject of chapter 8, and continued the revelation that Christ is our High Priest, and “is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens” (8:1). Earthly priests were types or symbols of the superior High Priest, Jesus Christ. Because of His sacrificial, substitutionary death, and resurrection from the dead, Jesus is our priest, and ministers in the heavenly, “true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man” (8:2).

An Inferior Tabernacle (8:3-5)

We find a contrast between the earthly tabernacle built by Moses, and the heavenly, eternal sanctuary where Christ is the believer’s High Priest. Because Christ was not of the tribe of Levi, He would not have served as an earthly priest. The priests of Levi offered the blood of sacrifices during Israel’s wanderings in the wilderness. Once a year, only the high priest might enter the “Holy of holies,” and then only with the blood of sacrifice “which he offered for himself” (9:7). Though Moses directed the construction of the tabernacle, according to the patterns God gave him (8:5b), that which was provided was a “type,” an “example and shadow of heavenly things” (8:5).

Israel Broke the Old Covenant (8:6-9)

Notice the adjectives “excellent” and “better” in verse 6. The writer of Hebrews, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, described the ministry of Christ as “a more excellent [surpassing, stronger] ministry.” As our High Priest, Christ “is the mediator of a better [stronger] covenant, which was established upon better [stronger] promises” (8:6). Earthly priests were inferior to Christ, who offered Himself as the perfect, sufficient sacrifice for sins. The weakness or “fault” of the “old covenant” (8:7) was not the covenant, but the sinfulness of men (including the priests).

Lesson – A covenant is only good when both parties keep their vows. For instance, when a man and woman marry, they bind themselves in a “marriage covenant.” God and others present are witnesses of their vows (promises), and the couple exchange rings as a token of their covenant. Tragically, more than 50% of marriage covenants are eventually broken because either the husband or wife fail to keep covenant, not only with their spouse, but with God and those who witnessed their exchange of vows.

The prophet Jeremiah, quoted in Hebrews 8:8-11, observed how the children of Israel had broken covenant with God (Jeremiah 31:31-34). Like a wife who betrays her vows and breaks her marriage covenant, Israel had failed to keep her covenant with God. In Jeremiah’s day, Israel had become not only a divided nation, but her idolatry and failure to keep the Law and Commandments, had robbed the nation of God’s blessings (Deuteronomy 28; Exodus 31).

The Promise of a New Covenant (8:10-13)

If men had kept the first covenant, there would have been no need for a second covenant (8:7b). However, because Israel had not kept her covenant with the LORD, and disregarded His Law, God foresaw the need to establish a “Covenant,” and Christ serve as the everlasting High Priest(8:10).

The first covenant required external obedience, keeping the written law and offering sacrifices. The Lord promised under the “New Covenant,” He would “put [His] laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people” (which will be fulfilled in the Millennial Kingdom, 8:10). In other words, motivated by their love and communion with the Lord, believers should keep covenant with God. The old covenant depended on earthly priests offering sacrifices, and acting as mediators between God and man (8:11a). Under the “New Covenant,” every believer will come before the Lord, “for all shall know [Him], from the least to the greatest” (8:11).

Closing thoughts (8:12-13) – While the old covenant pictured forgiveness through blood sacrifices, the “New Covenant” promised God’s mercy and forgiveness of sins (8:12). Therefore, knowing Christ has established a “Covenant” by His blood, we are confident He is our High Priest and Mediator, and sits “on the right hand of the throne.” Understanding the “New Covenant” has replaced the old (8:13), believers should delight in obeying the principles and precepts of God’s Word, trusting in His grace and promises.

Only as you study and meditate in God’s Word, will His truths rule your heart. What is in your heart?

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Who was Melchisedec, and does it matter? (Hebrews 7) – A video of today’s devotional.

In the same way Melchisedec was “king of Salem, [and] priest of the most high God” (7:1), Jesus Christ is our King, and “a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (7:17). Unlike the priest of Levi, who continually offered sacrifices for their sins, Christ offered Himself “once, when He offered up Himself” (7:27).

What a Savior! What a great High Priest!

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Who was Melchisedec, and does it matter? (Hebrews 7)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotional.

Scripture reading – Hebrews 7

Today’s devotional is taken from Hebrews 7, and continues with the focus upon Melchisedec, the king and high priest of Salem (the ancient name of Jerusalem, 7:1). The writer of Hebrews introduced us to Melchisedec in chapter 5, where Christ was described as “a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (5:6). In the same chapter we read, Christ was the “author of eternal salvation” (5:9), and “called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec” (5:10). The final verse of chapter 6 concluded the same, saying, “Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (6:20).

Who was Melchisedec? (7:1-3)

If you followed this “Heart of a Shepherd” over the course of the past two years, you may recall a man named Melchizedek (the same, though the spelling differs) in our study of the life of Abraham in Genesis 14. Abraham overcame raiders that had captured his nephew Lot’s household, and taken his family and possessions as spoils of war (Genesis 14:10-12). Returning victorious from battle, Abraham was greeted by “Melchizedek king of Salem”(7:1; Genesis 14:18). Of Melchizedek we read, he was “the priest of the most high God” (Genesis 14:18). He pronounced a blessing on Abraham, who in turn rewarded Melchizedek with a tithe, a tenth of the spoils taken in battle (7:2; Genesis 14:19-20).

Besides being a man renown in the Scriptures for his righteousness, Melchizedek was named as king of ancient Jerusalem (Genesis 14:18a), and a priest of Jehovah, “the most high God” (Genesis 14:18b). This Melchizedek was no ordinary king and priest, for he was described as eternal, and “without father, without mother, without descent [human lineage], having neither beginning of days, nor end of life” (7:3).

While I cannot say with certainty who Melchizedek was, we do know: As king and priest, he served as a “type” or picture of Christ who existed before His incarnation, being the Son of God.

Like Melchisedec, Christ is King and High Priest. (7:4-10)

The evidence Melchisedec was a greater priest than Abraham, is that the father of the Hebrews offered a tithe to him (notice the tithe predated the Mosaic Law, 7:4).

The discussion concerning Levi (7:5-10), whose sons were chosen as the priestly order, is an interesting one, because Levi was a son of Jacob, the grandson of Isaac, and the great grandson of Abraham. When Abraham offered a tithe to Melchisedec, he acknowledged that ancient king and priest of Jehovah was greater than himself. Therefore, we can conclude the ancient king and priest was greater than all his lineage, including the priests of Levi (7:5-10).

Closing thoughts – The Priesthood of Jesus Christ (7:11-14)

The balance of chapter 7 continued the parallel drawn between Melchisedec and Jesus Christ (7:11-28). However, I conclude today’s study with Hebrew 7:11-14, hoping to return to this chapter in another year.

Why did Jesus Christ assume the role as High Priest? Answer – Because the Levitical priesthood did not suffice for addressing man’s sin (7:11). The priests were mere men, and had to offer sacrifices for their sins and that of the people. Jesus Christ, however, was like Melchisedec and not of Levi or the Aaronic priesthood. We read, Christ came, not “after the order of Aaron” (7:11), but after “another tribe” (7:13). What was the other tribe? “[Jesus Christ] sprang out of Juda [the tribe of Judah]; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.”

Summary – In the same way Melchisedec was “king of Salem, [and] priest of the most high God” (7:1), Jesus Christ is our King, and “a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (7:17). Unlike the priest of Levi, who continually offered sacrifices for their sins, Christ offered Himself “once, when He offered up Himself” (7:27).

What a Savior! What a great High Priest!

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization. Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625. You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Eine Gedeihstörung: Ein tragischer Fall geistiger Unterernährung (Hebräer 5; Hebräer 6)

* To my English followers, the following is a German translation of Sunday’s devotional (12\4\2022).

Schriftlesung – Hebräer 5; Hebräer 6

Unser Studium des Hebräerbriefes wird mit Hebräer 5 und 6 fortgesetzt Andacht wird Hebräer 5 entnommen.

Der Verfasser des Hebräerbriefs hatte die Gläubigen bezüglich der Vorrangstellung Jesu Christi herausgefordert (Hebräer 1). Das Verständnis der Majestät Christi gab den Heiligen des 1. Jahrhunderts Anlass, in ihrem Geist bewegt zu werden, da sie alles wussten, was Er für ihre Sünden erlitten hatte. Jesus ist der Sohn Gottes, aber Er hat die äußerliche Manifestation Seiner himmlischen Herrlichkeit beiseite gelassen und „wurde wegen des Leidens des Todes ein wenig niedriger als die Engel“ (Hebräer 2,9). Durch seinen Tod am Kreuz schmeckte er „den Tod für jeden Menschen“ (Hebräer 2:9b), und durch seine Auferstehung von den Toten wurde er der „Hauptmann“. [und Autor] des Heils“ (Hebräer 2,10).

Hebräer 3 warnte die Hebräer, die Gefahr des Unglaubens zu erkennen und ihre Herzen zu verhärten (Hebräer 3:7-19). Mit der Aufforderung „ermahnt einander täglich“ (Hebräer 3,13) wurden Sünder zum Glauben aufgefordert, sonst würden sie nie Ruhe für ihre Seele finden (Hebräer 3,18). Wir wurden daran erinnert, dass es drei Voraussetzungen für Frieden und Ruhe gibt: Die erste war zur Furcht und Gott ehren (Hebräer 4:1). Zweitens: Hört das Evangelium (Hebräer 4:2), glaubt und kommt zum Herrn durch den Glauben (Hebräer 4:2-11). Schließlich muss ein Gläubiger Ruhe für die Seele finden und kaempfe , literally fleißig arbeiten in der Heiligen Schrift: „Denn das Wort Gottes ist schnell und mächtig und schärfer als jedes zweischneidige Schwert, durchdringend bis zur Trennung von Seele und Geist und von Gelenken und Mark, und es ist ein Unterscheidungsvermögen der Gedanken und Absichten des Herzens“ (Hebräer 4:12).

Da Christus der „Hohepriester“ des Gläubigen ist (Hebräer 4:15), drängte der Verfasser des Hebräerbriefs: „Lasst uns kühn zum Thron der Gnade kommen, damit wir Barmherzigkeit erlangen und Gnade finden, um in Zeiten der Not zu helfen“ ( Hebräer 4:16). Aus welchen Gründen könnten wir mit unseren Bitten in Gottes Gegenwart treten? Nicht auf der Grundlage unserer Werke (denn „unsere Gerechtigkeit ist wie schmutzige Kleider“, Jesaja 64:6), sondern auf der Grundlage, dass die Gerechtigkeit Christi unserem Konto gutgeschrieben wird und unsere Sündenschuld vollständig bezahlt wird! Halleluja, was für ein großer Erlöser und Hohepriester.

Hebräer 5

Hebräer 5 bot einen Kontrast zwischen dem Hohenpriester „für Menschen ordiniert“ und dem Großen Hohepriester, Jesus Christus (Hebräer 5:1). Selbst die engagiertesten und gewissenhaftesten Hohepriester wagten es nicht, sich Gott zu nähern, ohne ein Opfer für ihre Sünden darzubringen (Hebräer 5,2-3). Während der Hohepriester unter den Menschen auserwählt wurde, verkündete Gott von Christus: „Du bist mein Sohn, heute habe ich dich gezeugt … Du bist ein Priester für immer nach der Ordnung Melchisedeks“ (Melchisedek war ein König und Priester des alten Jerusalem , und ein Typus oder Beispiel für Christus, Hebräer 5:5-6).

Wenn Sie sich an Jesu Todeskampf im Garten Gethsemane erinnern, bevor er verraten und verhaftet wurde, werden Sie Hebräer 5,7-10 verstehen. Im Garten betete Jesus, „O mein Vater, wenn es möglich ist, lass diesen Kelch an mir vorübergehen“ (gemeint ist der Leidenskelch, dem er bald begegnen würde (Matthäus 26:39). Er betete ein zweites Mal, „O mein Vater, wenn dieser Kelch nicht an mir vorübergeht, es sei denn, ich trinke ihn, dein Wille geschehe“(Matthäus 26:42). Es ist diese Qual, die wir in Hebräer 5 geschildert finden, wenn wir lesen: „Er hatte Gebete und Flehen mit starkem Schreien und Tränen dem dargebracht, der ihn vom Tod retten konnte, und wurde erhört, weil er sich fürchtete; 8Obwohl er ein Sohn war, lernte er doch den Gehorsam durch die Dinge, die er litt“ (Hebräer 5:7-8).

Christus gehorchte dem Willen seines Vaters und erlitt die Strafe für unsere Sünden (5:8) und war das vollkommene sündlose Opfer. „Er wurde zum Urheber ewigen Heils für alle, die ihm gehorchen“ (Gehorsam impliziert den eigenen Glauben, bewiesen durch Werke, Hebräer 5:9).

Schlussgedanken (Hebräer 5:11-14) – Unser Studium von Hebräer 5 endet mit einem Fall von geistlicher Unterernährung. In einem traurigen, bedauerlichen Ton beobachtete der Autor in der Gemeinde des 1. Jahrhunderts eine geistliche Tragödie, die sich in der Gemeinde des 21. Jahrhunderts widerspiegelt: Ein Versagen, geistlich zu gedeihen. Wie heute gab es einige, die sich zur Errettung bekannten, deren Leben jedoch geistlich anämisch war. Sie zeigten wenig bis gar keinen spirituellen Appetit, und die Diagnose wurde so zusammengefasst: „Ihr seid schwerhörig“ (Hebräer 5:11).

Anstatt Lehrer des Wortes zu sein, begnügten sie sich mit elementaren Lehren und „ersten Grundsätzen der Aussprüche Gottes“ (Hebräer 5,12). Sie hatten den Herrn und sein Volk im Stich gelassen, denn sie blieben in der geistlichen Kinderstube (Hebräer 5:13) und konnten sich nicht an den fortgeschrittenen Lehren und Studien des Wortes erfreuen (Hebräer 5:14). Ihre geistliche Unreife hatte sie verwundbar und unfähig gemacht, „sowohl Gut als auch Böse zu unterscheiden“ (Hebräer 5:14).

Ist das nicht tragischerweise das traurige Bild vieler Gläubiger und Kirchen des 21. Jahrhunderts?

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Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

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A Failure to Thrive: A Tragic Case of Spiritual Undernourishment (Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6)

Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6

Our study of the Epistle to the Hebrews continues with Hebrews 5 and 6. After a review, our devotional will be taken from Hebrews 5.

The writer of Hebrews had challenged believers regarding the preeminence of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1). Understanding the majesty of Christ gave cause for 1st century saints to be stirred in their spirit, knowing all He suffered for their sins. Jesus is the Son of God, yet, He set aside the outward manifestation of His heavenly glory, and “was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death” (2:9). By His death on the Cross, He tasted “death for every man” (2:9b), and by His resurrection from the dead, He became the “captain [and author] of salvation” (2:10).

Hebrews 3 warned the Hebrews to realize the danger of unbelief, and hardening their hearts (3:7-19). With the challenge, “exhort one another daily” (3:13), sinners were urged to believe, or they would never find rest for their souls (3:18). We were reminded there are three requisites for peace and rest: The first was to fear and revere God (4:1). Secondly, hear the Gospel (4:2), believe, and come to the Lord by faith (4:2-11). Finally, to find rest for the soul, a believer must fight, literally labor diligently in the Scriptures: “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (4:12).

Because Christ is the believer’s “high priest” (4:15), the writer of Hebrews urged, “Let us come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (4:16). On what grounds might we enter into God’s presence with our petitions? Not on the basis of our works (for “our righteousness are as filthy rags,” Isaiah 64:6), but on the grounds of Christ’s righteousness being credited to our account, and paying our sin debt in full! Hallelujah, what a great Savior and high priest.

Hebrews 5

Hebrews 5 offered a contrast between the high priest “ordained for men” and the Great High Priest, Jesus Christ (5:1). Even the most dedicated, conscientious high priests dared not approach God without offering a sacrifice for his sins (5:2-3). While the high priest was chosen among men, God declared of Christ, “Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee…Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec” (Melchisedec had been a king and priest of ancient Jerusalem, and a type or example of Christ, 5:5-6).

If you remember Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, before He was betrayed and arrested, you will understand Hebrews 5:7-10. In the Garden, Jesus prayed, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me” (meaning the cup of suffering He would soon face, Matthew 26:39). He prayed a second time, “O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done” (Matthew 26:42). It is that agony we find portrayed in Hebrews 5, when we read: “he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; 8Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered” (5:7-8).

Christ obeyed His Father’s will, and suffered the penalty of our sins (5:8), and being the perfect sinless sacrifice. “He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (obedience implying one’s faith, proven by works, 5:9).

Closing thoughts (5:11-14) – Our study of Hebrews 5 concludes with a case of spiritual undernourishment. In a mournful, regrettable tone, the writer observed in the 1st century congregation a spiritual tragedy that is mirrored in the 21st century church: A failure to thrive spiritually. As today, there were some who professed salvation, but whose lives were spiritually anemic. They evidenced little to no spiritual appetite, and the diagnosis was summed up in this: “ye are dull of hearing” (5:11).

Rather than be teachers of the word, they were content with elementary doctrines, and “first principles of the oracles of God” (5:12). They had failed the Lord, and His people, for they remained in the spiritual nursery (5:13), and unable to delight in the advanced doctrines and studies of the Word (5:14). Their spiritual immaturity had left them vulnerable and unable to “discern both good and evil” (5:14).

Tragically, is that not the sad portrait of many 21st century believers and churches?

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone).

Copyright © 2022 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization.

Mailing address: Heart of A Shepherd Inc, 6201 Ehrlich Rd., Tampa, FL 33625.

You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.