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The Radiance of God's Glory

Hebrews 1:3

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In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, But in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 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. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.

Hebrews 1:1-4 NIV

The author of Hebrews has a lot to say about both the person and work of Jesus. He starts off by comparing the way that God spoke to us in the past with how he speaks to us now. In the Old Testament, he spoke to us via the prophets. In the New Testament era, he spoke to us through his Son. But who is this Son who was appointed heir of all things, and he was one through whom the universe came into being?

The Radiance

In this third verse of Hebrews, we find two expressions describing the nature of the Son. In the first of these, we find that the Son is the radiance of God’s glory. Radiance, or apaugasma, is a shining forth, the light coming from a luminous body. The word can refer either to the direct radiance or to a reflection; to the direct light from the sun, or the sun’s light reflected from the moon. Regardless of which way you take the word, it is telling us that when we see the Son, we see God’s glory.

Of God’s Glory

According to Wuest, glory (the Greek word doxa) “refers to the expression of the divine attributes collectively.” So God’s glory is an expression of who he is; it is what we can see and experience. God is holy; his glory reveals that holiness to us. God is love; his glory is an expression of that love to us. God is righteous; his glory reveals that righteousness to us.

And the Son, Jesus, is the reflection of that glory. When we see Jesus, we see God. In John 14:9 Jesus tells Philip that “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.

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Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.

5 thoughts on “The Radiance of God’s Glory – Hebrews 1:3”

  1. God bless you and your family, Ed Jarret, and thank you for sharing your love of the Word – Jesus – brightness of the Father’s glory.

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