Jesus, the Radiance of God’s Glory

Introduction (Ice Breaker & Rhetorical Question)

Have you ever walked into a dark room and felt unsure where to step? But when the light switches on, everything becomes clear. That is life without Christ—dark, confusing, directionless. When the true Light comes, everything is seen as it truly is.

Rhetorical question: If a small lamp can transform a dark room, how much more the Light of Christ, the radiance of God’s glory?

Background

The book of Hebrews addresses believers under pressure. Some were tempted to return to old rituals. The author responds by presenting Jesus as superior to prophets, angels, priests, and the law. Hebrews 1:1–4 is a majestic declaration that Jesus is God’s final revelation and the very radiance of His glory.

Point 1: Jesus Is God’s Ultimate Revelation (Hebrews 1:1–2a)

God once spoke in fragments through prophets, but now He speaks fully through His Son. The Greek lalesas means “to speak clearly.” In Christ, God’s voice becomes unmistakably clear.

Sub-Points:

1. The Former Revelation Was Partial
   “Many times and in many ways”—God revealed truth piece by piece.
2. The Final Revelation Comes Through the Son
   Cross-reference: John 1:18—the Son reveals the unseen God fully.
3. Christ Is God’s Loudest Voice
   In a world of noise, the voice of Jesus remains the highest authority.

Transition: But who is this Son? The next verse unveils His glory.

Point 2: Jesus Is the Radiance of God’s Glory (Hebrews 1:2b–3)

“The radiance of God’s glory” uses apaugasma—meaning “outshining.” Jesus is not a reflection but the very emission of God’s glory. He is God made visible.

Sub-Points:

1. He Shines the Full Glory of God
   As the sun emits light, the Son emits the glory of the Father.
2. He Is the Exact Imprint of God’s Nature
   Charaktēr means “engraved image.” Cross-reference: Colossians 1:15.
3. He Upholds the Universe
   Pherōn shows continuous sustaining action. Christ holds creation together every second.

Transition: If He radiates God’s glory, then His mission is not only revelation but redemption.

Point 3: Jesus Completed Redemption and Was Exalted (Hebrews 1:3b–4)

“After making purification for sins...” uses katharismon—a complete cleansing. His work is final.

Sub-Points:

1. Redemption Is Finished
   Cross-reference: John 19:30—“It is finished.”
2. Jesus Sat at God’s Right Hand
   Sitting signifies a completed task and highest authority.
3. He Is Superior to Angels
   He is not a messenger; He is the message, the Word, the Radiance.

Practical Application

• Civil servants: His light guides integrity in complex systems.
• Employees: Christ sustains your strength amid deadlines.
• Business owners: His radiance brings clarity to difficult decisions.
• Youth: Jesus restores identity with His perfect image.
• Parents: His glory empowers you to lead your home with grace.

Illustration

A lighthouse once saved a ship during a violent storm. The captain said, “That one beam of light saved everyone.” The radiance of Christ is the lighthouse for our souls.

Poetic Closing

From eternity He shines, the Radiance divine. Into our world He stepped, carrying glory in human form. May His light flood every dark corner of our hearts.

Congregational Response

“Lord Jesus, Radiance of the Father, shine upon my life.”

Closing Pantun

Light breaks forth as dawn draws near, Guiding hearts that once were blind. Jesus shines with glory clear, The Radiance of God for all mankind.