The reason for the season is often lost amid the trappings and trimmings of Christmas. Here are some highlights of human history from Hebrews 2:6–11.
First, there is the glorious beginning of mankind. Hebrews 2:6–8a reads, “But one [David] testified in a certain place [Ps. 8], saying: ‘What is man that You are mindful of him, Or the son of man that You take care of him? You have made him a little lower than the angels; You have crowned him with glory and honor, And set him over the works of Your hands. You have put all things in subjection under his feet.’ For in that He put all in subjection under him, He left nothing that is not put under him.”
Genesis 1:26-27 reads, “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.’ So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” Adam’s situation was significantly marked by his semblance to God in his sinlessness, superiority, and splendor. It was glorious!
Second, there is the grievous burden upon mankind. Hebrews 2:8b reads, “But now we do not yet see all things put under him.” Why? What happened? Adam deliberately chose to disobey God’s direct command. Adam’s sin resulted in shame, separation, suffering, and sorrow for himself and his descendants (Gen. 2:7–25; 3:1–19).
Paul describes Adam’s descendants as “dead in trespasses and sins” and “children of wrath” (Eph. 2:1–3). Adam’s disobedience marred the crown of God’s creation created in God’s image and cost him his dominion over creation.
Gracious blessings
Third, there is the gracious blessing for mankind. Hebrews 2:9–11 reads, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone. For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren.”
Make certain you have received the sacrifice, salvation, and sanctification of Jesus Christ the Lord.
Theologian George W. Sweeting explains, “Eternity is the grand climax of all history. It is the age to come when every person will acknowledge Jesus as Lord. Eternity will bring to this world all God intended for us. Sin will have been judged and banished. Rewards will have been presented. Life will continue with new vitality, meaning, and perfection. What an age that will be!”
Jesus Christ is still the reason for the season!
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was submitted by Franklin L. Kirksey, Robertsdale, Alabama.
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