Daily Devotions
Hebrews
"In things pertaining to God..."
Text: Hebrews 5:1c
THE DANGER OF PRESUMPTION
The danger of presumption is a very serious one. Man tends to presume many things, not least in the realm of religion. This danger was something that the psalmist David noticed and hence he offered this special prayer.
“Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins;
Let them not have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of
great transgression.”
Psalm 19:13
Two things may be noted concerning the sin of presumption:
1. Presumption is associated with “great transgression”.
2. The sin of presumption can have “dominion” over a person.
THINGS PERTAINING TO GOD (ta pros ton theon)
Many presume that relating to God is a simple and straightforward matter. This however is not the case at all!
1. A high priest (Aaronic) had to be especially chosen by God.
2. His appointment was to stand on behalf of men (huper anthropon).
3. Implications to be noted:-
a) Man needs to be represented by a high priest because of a lack of knowledge of God.
b) The high priest must be deeply knowledgeable concerning the things of God.
c) His tasks include the following:-
i) Teach people about God.
ii) Relay messages from God.
iii) Represent people in prayer (intercession).
iv) Lead in worship.
There are many “things” that we do not know and must never allow ourselves to take for granted! Our need is to learn how to truly stand in awe of “the things of God” and appreciate afresh the role of Jesus as our great High Priest.