The Exhorter
1/31/2010

A BETTER HOPE

The Hebrew writer teaches that the Old Testament law was weak and unprofitable in contrast to the New Testament of grace: "for the law made nothing perfect; on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a better hope, through which we draw near to God" (Hebrews 7:19). It is further explained: "Therefore He (Jesus Christ) is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them" (Hebrews 7:25).

Jesus Christ brought a better hope in the great promise of eternal salvation. Paul explained that we are patiently waiting for the better hope that is to come upon all believers when Jesus returns: "For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance" (Romans 8:24,25).

The better hope of eternal life is a promise from God and His Son to all Christians. Faith is strengthened through the knowledge of God's "truth which accords with godliness, in hope of eternal life which God who cannot lie, promised before time began, but had in due time manifested His word through preaching, which was . . . according to the commandment of God our Savior" (Titus 1:1-3).