HEBREWS 3

JESUS REPRESENTS A GREATER MOSES

Referring to Jesus as the high priest of the faith, the author draws attention to Jesus’ authority and holiness. Similarly, the author compares Jesus to Moses. Although Moses was faithful to God’s will, Jesus was perfect in His faithfulness and accomplished God’s plan for salvation. Just as Moses established the tabernacle (Exodus 25-31), Jesus established God’s new dwelling place within believers (Acts 2).

For the Jewish people and Jewish-Christians, Moses was seen as one of the heroes of the faith. For the author to say that Jesus was superior to Moses was both a radical and controversial statement. Moses led the Israelite people out of Egyptian exile (Exodus 13), but Jesus saved all people from death and sin! Although Moses played an important role in the history of God’s people, his life and legacy ultimately pointed to the arrival of Jesus. He was the one that the Israelites were waiting for!

Referencing Psalm 95:7–11, the author reminds the readers to willingly enter the rest of God. Although they have experienced exile and oppression, God offers confidence and peace through faith in Jesus. The author urges the followers of Jesus not to let their hearts be hardened or deceived by sin. Instead, they are instructed to hold firm in their faith and remain confident.

Remembering how the Israelites rebelled against God, the letter encourages believers to remain faithful and resist sin. Because of his disobedience to God, Moses was ultimately unable to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 20). The author warns readers not to miss out on the Kingdom of Heaven because of their unbelief.