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.
Hebrews 1:1-2 NIV
This introduction to Hebrews references two time periods: “in the past” and “in these last days.” These two periods are divided by the life of Jesus. “In the past” refers to the time before Jesus, the time of the Old Testament. Meanwhile, “in these last days” refers to the work of Jesus and beyond, roughly the time of the New Testament up to today.
In these two distinct ages, God spoke to his people in two different ways. In the past, it was through the Old Testament prophets, from Moses to Malachi. These prophets were intermediaries God used to reveal himself and his will to us. This ongoing revelation occurred over hundreds of years. And they used a variety of literary genres to deliver God’s message.
In These Last Days
In these last days, though, God has spoken to us through his Son. Who is this Son? The answer to this question is one of the primary themes of Hebrews. And here, at the beginning of this letter, the author tells us two things about the Son. God appointed him to be the heir of all things. And God created the universe through him.
This is very similar language to what Paul uses in Colossians 1:16: “For in him [the Son] all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.” The Son is the agent of creation. And the creation is for the Son.
There is no greater revelation from God than what we are given in Jesus, the Son. When the Son, Jesus, speaks to us, it is not as a messenger from God, like the prophets. Instead, it is God himself speaking to us. What is God like? Jesus reveals him to us in his life and his words. Philip asked Jesus to show them the Father. And Jesus responded that if you have seen me (Jesus), you have seen the Father (John 14:8-9).
