The Last Word?

The people of Scotland have spoken decisively, and all parties both north and south of the border must listen.

How Westminster and all concerned respond appropriately will fill the next few months with plenty of discussions and even arguments. But it is clear that the Independence question is answered for a generation or more.

The writer to the Hebrews makes a bold claim at the start of his letter. 

'Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son.' (Hebrews 1.1-2)

After many centuries of prophets bringing 'the word of the Lord' to God's people, God's final or last Word has come, in the person and ministry or Jesus. 

The Christian claim is that after Jesus, there is nothing further that God can say. The writer goes on to show, in characteristic Jewish style, the seven qualities that Jesus brings. 'God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honour at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. (Hebrews 1.2-3) 

Did you spot the seven attributes of Jesus in these verses? 

I am particularly grateful that, 'having cleansed us from our sins', Jesus demonstrates that the job is completed, so he is now seated in heaven, at God's right hand. Because He finished his work, though at great cost to himself, we can be thoroughly confident that God will accept us at the throne of Grace. The Last Word has been spoken, and we can receive that with joyful trust.

On Sunday, I shall be preaching at St. Andrew's, as Vicar, for the last time. These have been rich and wonderful years, for which I thank the Lord and his people here. But I shall continue to send our 'Richard's Reflections' while retired, possibly not quite as regularly, but I enjoy trying to connect current events to the wisdom and challenge of Holy Scripture. I shall, however, change the signature stuff at the bottom of the emails!

Best wishes,

Richard