What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision? Much in every way! First of all, they have been entrusted with the very words of God. (verses 1-2)
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“They have been entrusted with the very words of God.”
We live in a world with incredible ease of communication. Social media, cell phones, texting, emails, Zoom calls, Facetime – taken together, they open doors of communication that would have been impenetrable a generation ago.
Even so, communication isn’t necessarily a given. It involves choice. At its best, it also implies relationship. You can’t twist someone’s arm to communicate, nor can you demand relationship.
It’s especially true when you factor in social distance resulting from fame or prestige. If someone is in the limelight because of their rank (say, inherited royalty) or their accomplishment (say, professional sport championship or theatrical acclaim on stage or screen), then the likelihood of ever making connection with them is severely diminished.
What if we consider the Creator of all universes, the altogether worthy One who is above all things, beyond comprehension and transcending all understanding. What hope could we ever have of engaging communication or of entering into relationship with him?
Imagine, then, the height of privilege if the Creator himself chose to initiate that connection. What if the transcendent God chose to reach down, extending communication and inviting relationship?
This, of course, is exactly what he did with the Jewish nation. He chose to make himself known by communicating his very words to the descendants of Abraham. It’s an unparalleled privilege.
“They have been entrusted with the very words of God.”
Paul will later say, “Theirs is the adoption as sons … the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises” (Romans 9:4). God has spoken to his people, communicating his care and compassion and commandments and commitments.
So, although Jews and Gentiles alike are under the condemnation of sin, yet the Jews uniquely were shown God’s favour. God spoke. He communicated. He drew the children of Abraham into relationship.
The wonder is that God’s gracious favour has now been extended to all. This was, of course, God’s plan all along. Holding the newborn Jesus in his arms, Simeon prophetically declared: “My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:30-32).
The gift is for all. “The very words of God,” originally received by Israel, pointed to God’s salvation. They were ultimately realized in the person of Jesus himself. “In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things” (Hebrews 1:1-2).
So we, too, have received the gift of God’s communication. He calls us, also, into relationship. Therefore, value his words. Keep ears open. Keep heart and will submissive. And always stay attuned to God’s final word – his Son, Jesus, our Saviour.
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Dear Lord, thank you that you have spoken. Thank you that the words entrusted to Israel have now been entrusted to me, also. Thank you that you have spoken the clarifying word through your Son, Jesus. Keep my ears open. Keep my heart tuned.
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Reflect: You, too, have been entrusted with the very words of God. How much attention do you give to this gift? What attention will you give this week?
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