Jesus: the suffering founder of salvation

A founder is the beginning and begins with the end in mind.

Salvation is the “end.”

Suffering is the method.

In Hebrews 2 we are warned to not think our suffering is different from that of others or from Christ's.  We can make a million excuses of how we're unique and while the situation is, the experience is not unknown to the author and origin of that experience who's not only felt what you felt, but gave you the neuron synapses to be aware of it and the vocabulary to express it.  He's closer to you than skin.  

This brings up the apathy and control we talked about last week.  When faced with our own inabilities—presented in this case by the ultimate insufficiency, our inability to sustain life eternally—we move toward apathy or control.  

Jesus says: I've got you.  I've already paid the price you don't have to do that anymore.  Repent from sin and receive love.  Hear and believe the words “you are my beloved.”  Act out of the abundance of God's grace, not out of our inability to pay him back.  He's made propitiation.  We don't have to.

Questions for Consideration:
Toward what in your life is the Holy Spirit drawing your attention as you read this passage?  In life's struggles and sufferings, do you tend toward apathy or control?  How does Jesus inform those decisions?  How is he guiding you to a different response?

Is Jesus guiding your way?  What does following him look like?  Where is he taking you?  Are you willing or hesitant?

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