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Hebrews 1:1-3 - God's Glory and Jesus.

Hebrews 1:1-3 (NIV) In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

INTRODUCTION

Not only is Jesus the exact representation of God, but he is God himself - the very God who spoke to the people of Israel. He is eternal; he worked with the Father in creating the world (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16). He is the full revelation of God. You can have no clearer view of God than by looking at Jesus Christ. He is the complete expression of God in a human body. [Life Application SB 2019]

COMMENTARY PEARL

Christ as manifested to the patriarchs, as symbolized in the sacrificial service, as portrayed in the law, and as revealed by the prophets, is the riches of the Old Testament. Christ in His life, His death, and His resurrection, Christ as He is manifested by the Holy Spirit, is the treasure of the New Testament. Our Saviour, the outshining of the Father's glory, is both the Old and the New. COL 126 [Remnant SB]

COMMENTARY

The Picture of God on Earth
   Have you ever seen a kid who looks exactly like their parents? We know scientifically that who you come from shapes you. This is what the author of Hebrews was communicating by saying that Jesus is the exact representation of God. Jesus left heaven and came to planet Earth, becoming human, in part to show people what the Father was like.
   He looked like His Father, so by studying the life, words, and work of Jesus, you can start to see the Father more clearly. You can better grasp attributes of His character like His love, mercy, and power.
   If you've been born again into the family of God, you are a son or daughter of this perfect heavenly Father. So ask yourself today, When people look at you, are they seeing Him? Are they able to better know God because you reflect His character through your life? Pray that He would help you radiate His goodness and glory today.
   God, You didn't leave me to wonder who You are. You sent Jesus that I could see and know You, personally. Through Him, I rejoice as Your child today. [Grace and Glory by Louie Giglio]

AI COMMENTARY

   Jesus is the "express image" of God the Father (Hebrews 1:3) because He is the exact, perfect representation of God's nature, essence, and character, making the invisible God visible. As the incarnate Son, Jesus reflects God's attributes through His actions, divinity, and divine nature, embodying the fullness of God.
   Key Aspects of Jesus as the Express Image:
      o Exact Representation: The Greek term used in Hebrews 1:3 implies an exact imprint, stamp, or character, similar to a die making an impression on a coin. It signifies that Jesus is not merely similar, but identical in essence and nature to God.
      o Visible Manifestation: Because God is invisible, Jesus acts as the tangible, visible representation. Jesus explicitly stated, "He who has seen Me has seen the Father" (John 14:9), confirming that His life and person perfectly display the Father.
      o Functional & Moral Reflection: Jesus reflects God's character through His actions - healing, forgiving, providing, and showing compassion - which are the works of God. His life demonstrates the same divine attributes as the Father.
      o Divine Essence: Jesus is the "image of the invisible God" (Colossians 1:15), meaning He is not just a human bearing God's image, but is Himself God (divine in nature) in the flesh.
      o The "Word" of God: As the Word (John 1:1), Jesus is the active, creative force of God, upholding the universe by His power, which is another aspect of His representation of God's authority and essence.

LINK FOR FURTHER STUDY

Colossians 1:15-17 - JESUS the GOD-MAN.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2025/20250907-0316.html

For more:
https://www.abible.com/