Pastor Stephen Dedman

January 25, 2025

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.

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.

January 24, 2025

You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
‭‭II Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬

The Apostle Paul wrote to instruct and encourage Timothy, his beloved disciple and fellow laborer in the ministry. The letter was short, yet powerful. His message was one of encouragement, empowerment, and a reminder of the divine source of strength.

Paul’s words begin with a tender address, emphasizing the close relationship they share as co-workers in Christ. It’s a reminder that we are not alone in our journey of faith; we have a spiritual family to support and uplift us.

Paul directed Timothy to find his strength not in his own abilities but in God’s grace. Grace is God’s undeserved favor. We are called to rely on God’s grace for everything we do, knowing that in our weakness, His grace is more than sufficient.

The source of this grace is found in Christ Jesus. He is the source of all our spiritual blessings and the example of perfect strength in weakness. By remaining connected to Him through prayer, Scripture, and a deepening relationship, we can access the abundant grace available to us.

As Christians, we are called to be strong, not in our own might, but in the immeasurable grace that flows from our Savior. When we face trials, temptations, or moments of weakness, we can turn to Jesus, confident that His grace will carry us through.

So, today, draw strength from the well of God’s grace, understanding that it is sufficient for every challenge you will face. As you do so, you will find the endurance and empowerment needed to walk faithfully in the footsteps of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Pray

Lord, I come before Your throne of grace, humbly asking for strength and endurance. No matter what I face today, I know You stand with me. Fill me with Your strength. In Jesus’ name, amen.

January 23, 2025

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭6‬:‭23‬

Imagine working tirelessly all week and receiving your paycheck. It’s not a gift; it’s what you earned. Now imagine being handed a gift—unexpected, unearned, freely given. Romans 6:23 reveals two outcomes: one we earn and one freely given by God.

Sin is rebellion against God, and its “wages” is death—eternal separation from Him. This is what we rightfully deserve because of our sinful nature (Romans 3:23). The death spoken of here is not just physical but spiritual, representing a life apart from the presence of God.

Here’s the good news: we don’t have to receive those wages. Instead, God offers us a free gift—eternal life through Christ. A gift can’t be earned; it must be accepted with gratitude. This gift cost Jesus His life, as He bore the punishment for our sins on the cross (1 Peter 2:24). Through His death and resurrection, we are offered new life.

Eternal life is only found in Jesus. It’s not about religion, good deeds, or self-effort—it’s about a relationship with Him. Jesus Himself said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”(John 14:6).

Pray

Lord, thank You for the free gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus. I acknowledge my sin and the death it brings, but I rejoice in the life You offer through Jesus. Help me to live in gratitude and to share this gift with others. In Jesus’ name, amen.