As our Jewish brothers get ready to observe the DAY OF ATONEMENT (YOM KIPPUR)on Friday, I wish to continue into our five week long Hike through Hebrews 11, with purpose! We are now up to Verse 23, but need to look at Verses 23-29 in two consecutive parts before Friday. The reason – MOSES!
I have divided them into two sections dealing with the Faith of Moses and how it relates to this feast day. To wit, verses Hebrews 11:23-26 (NKJV)says: 23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king’s command. 24 By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, 25choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, 26 esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.
Please re-read Verses 25 and 26 in BOLD RED above and note these two things:
– While he was rescued and raised by Pharoah’s daughter, once he knew better, he embraced his identity as NOT an Egyptian, but a man of destiny.
– While he could have had anything he wanted as the Prince of Egypt, Moses then threw in his lot with God’s people at the time – the Hebrews (meaning “those who have crossed over).
BUT, more importantly, we see something unique here about Moses! HE KNEW CHRIST! WHAT? Whatchutalkingbout, Willis? Jesus was not born until around 3 BC and Moses lived about 1500 years before!
I will say this loud and clear – MOSES WAS THE FIRST CHRISTIAN!
Who do you think gave Moses the LAW on Mount Sinai – Jesus!
Who do you think was in the Pillar of Fire by Night – Jesus!
Who do you think was in the Cloud by Day – Jesus!
Who do you think was in the ROCK that Moses hit, when God said to speak to it – Jesus!
Who do you think was with Moses and Elijah on Transfiguration Mountain – Jesus!
Who is this all about – JESUS!
The new movie COURAGEOUS has just been released by Sherwood Baptist Church, Albany, Georgia and is showing in your local theater nationwide. Sherwood are the creators of the powerful FIREPROOF and FACING THE GIANTS movies. This new production revolves around four county deputies, who are also Fathers in different seasons and places with their children. It is such a powerful drama that it will take you on a roller-coaster of emotions – from laughter to tears – all in less than two hours!
However this is not a review of the movie. What I wish to key in on is the INTANGIBLE which each of these Four Flawed Fathers filtered to their children. This intangible is their Faith.
The four law enforcement men in this movie have a lot in common with the heroes of Hebrews 11. These men of verses 20-22 are called the Patriarchs – or fathers of an entire people. It is written:20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
21 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff. 22 By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones.
Fathers today seem to be under a lot more stress and duress and what a mess we have as the society demands things from men, which God never intended. BUT, God
