Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever!
Hebrews 13:8 NET
When you first read this verse, you might take exception to it. Jesus would seem to be different after he took on human flesh. And again, at his resurrection, when he took on his resurrection body (1 Cor. 15:35-54).
But his nature as the second person of the Trinity has not changed. He has always been the Son. He is the Son now. And he will forever be the Son.
The context of this verse, though, would indicate that the author is not concerned about eternity past. Instead, he is telling his readers that what Jesus was when he lived among us, he still is. Furthermore, he will always be that.
If Jesus had come to earth in the 21st century instead of the 1st century, he would be just what he was then. He would be announcing the kingdom of God, caring for the hurting, and confronting the self-righteous. And he would still give his life for sinful humanity.
Strange Teachings
Why is that important? The author of Hebrews went on to warn his readers about strange teachings. Some of these “strange teachings” likely came from those seeking to draw Jewish believers back into old covenant rituals and practices. But there would have been plenty of other “strange teachings.”
Many people are offended by who Jesus is and what he taught. They often seek to change the message about him and the gospel message he proclaimed. And that is just as true today as when the author of Hebrews wrote.
However, the Jesus depicted in the gospel accounts is still the Jesus of today. He has not changed. Nor will he ever change. The gospel message of Jesus is just as relevant today as it was when Jesus walked the earth. And it will never change. And Jesus’ call to follow him is just as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago.
Don’t be carried away by strange teachings. Hold fast to the Jesus of the gospels. Don’t let anyone deceive you into thinking that the gospel of Jesus needs a makeover to be relevant in today’s culture.
