Pastor Stephen Dedman

But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭9‬:‭11‬

Hebrews 9:11 paints a picture of Jesus as our High Priest. In the Old Testament, the high priest held the honor and responsibility of entering the Most Holy Place of the temple to make atonement for the sins of the people. However, Jesus is described as the High Priest of the “good things to come,” and His tabernacle is “greater and more perfect.”

This verse is a reminder of the extraordinary nature of Christ’s priesthood. He doesn’t enter an earthly sanctuary but the heavenly one, not made by human hands. His work is not confined to temporary rituals but secures eternal salvation for those who believe in Him. In Christ, we have a High Priest who mediates for us before God, ensuring that the “good things to come” are ours to inherit.

We should be grateful for the perfect High Priest we have in Jesus. He has accomplished what no other high priest could—eternal redemption. We can approach God with confidence, knowing that Christ’s work is complete, and we are welcomed into the presence of God. May this truth fill us with hope and assurance as we live out our faith in Him.

We are blessed that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is our atonement for our sins. We are forgiven and made righteous before God. Thank the Lord we are forgiven!

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the perfect High Priest and entering the heavenly tabernacle to secure my eternity. Help me to grasp the significance of this wonderful work. Give me confidence and assurance as I anticipate the “good things to come” that You have promised. In Jesus’ name, amen.

But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.
‭‭II Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬

There are times when we may feel tired, discouraged, or tempted to give up in our efforts to do good. Whether it’s serving others, sharing the gospel, or simply living out our faith in our daily lives, the road can sometimes be challenging and demanding.

Paul’s instructions to the Thessalonian believers applies to us as well: do not grow weary in doing good. Even when we face obstacles or opposition, we are called to persevere in living out our faith and demonstrating Christ’s love to those around us.

Perseverance in doing good requires steadfastness. It means continuing to show kindness, generosity, and compassion, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient. It means standing firm in our convictions and values, even when they are unpopular.

Jesus is the ultimate example of perseverance and endurance. We can draw strength from His grace and power. Trusting in God’s strength and guidance will sustain us along the way. May we never grow weary in serving others and advancing God’s kingdom, knowing that our labor will bear fruit for His glory.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the privilege of serving You. Give me strength and perseverance to continue doing good, even when I face challenges or opposition. Help me to fix my eyes on You and to trust in Your faithfulness. Let my life be a testimony to Your grace and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭3‬:‭11‬

John the Baptist proclaimed the coming of the Messiah and prepared the way for His ministry. He baptized people with water as a symbol of repentance, but he prophesied that Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire, signifying a deeper, transformative work in the hearts and lives of believers.

John the Baptist contrasts his baptism with water, which symbolizes repentance and cleansing from sin, with the baptism that Jesus will bring—a baptism with the Holy Spirit and fire. This baptism represents the impartation of the Holy Spirit’s power and presence, which brings about spiritual renewal, empowerment, and transformation.

As Christians, we are called to experience this baptism of the Holy Spirit, which is not merely an external ritual but a deep and inward work of God in our hearts and lives. The Holy Spirit gives us power to live as disciples of Jesus, enabling us to bear fruit, overcome sin, and walk in obedience to God’s will. He convicts us of sin, leads us into truth, and empowers us to live lives that glorify God.

The baptism of the Holy Spirit represents a purifying fire that refines and purges us from all that hinders our relationship with God. It burns away impurities, strengthens our faith, and empowers us to live boldly for Christ. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we are transformed into the image of Christ, becoming more like Him in character and conduct.

Today, let us invite the Holy Spirit to come and fill us anew, empowering us to live as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the promise of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which brings transformation and empowerment. Fill me with Your Spirit today, and purify me with Your refining fire. Help me to walk in obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.