In Hebrews 5:7, the phrase “in the days of his flesh” highlights the profound importance of Jesus taking on human form. This sermon explores five critical reasons why Jesus had to come in the flesh:
1. Fulfilling Old Testament Messianic Prophecies: Jesus manifested as the Messiah described in Old Testament prophecies, such as:
▪ The seed of the woman who would bruise the serpent’s head (Genesis 3:15)
▪ The descendant of Abraham through whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 22:18)
▪ The one for whom a body was prepared (Psalm 40:6, Hebrews 10:5)
2. Revealing God to Humanity: By living among us, Jesus showed us God (John 1:14, 14:9). [He made the invisible visible, allowing us to behold His glory.]
3. Experiencing Temptation: In the flesh, Jesus subjected Himself to the same temptations we face. Having suffered through temptation, He can aid us in our struggles (Hebrews 2:18, 4:15).
4. Dying for Our Sins: As God, Jesus is immortal (1 Timothy 6:16). But by taking on flesh and blood, He could taste death for every man (Hebrews 2:9, 14). [His death destroyed the devil’s power and paid the price for our sins.]
5. Serving as Our High Priest: In the flesh, Jesus became the perfect High Priest who made atonement for our sins (Hebrews 5:7-9). Though He was a Son, He learned obedience through suffering, becoming the author of eternal salvation for all who obey Him.
The Ultimatum: Serve King Jesus or King Satan
Ultimately, we face a choice: serve King Jesus or serve king Satan, the “god of this world.” Jesus came in the flesh to provide the way of salvation. By hearing, believing, repenting, confessing, and being baptized, we can access His saving blood and look forward to eternal life with Him.