sin

How important is it to seek heavenly rewards? According to the Word of God, it is a must: “Whoever would draw near to God must believe…that he rewards those who seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). Without believing in and seeking rewards, we can’t draw near to God.

This semester we have been studying the men and women of faith in Hebrews 11. What motivated them to perform their great acts of faith? Only one thing: they were seeking heavenly rewards.

Last year about this time Amanda and I had about 15-20 students (and some non-students) in our home to celebrate Good Friday. We began by reading this passage from Luke 24:

'O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?' And beginning with Moses and the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

This scene takes place on the road to Emmaus, shortly after Jesus' resurrection. Why is Jesus rebuking His disciples? Apparently, His crucifixion is all over the Old Testament Scriptures. And it should be obvious. What else can He mean by calling them foolish and slow of heart?

But let me ask you a question: when you read the Old Testament, is it obvious to you that Jesus would come and suffer and enter into His glory? Maybe not. But it really is there, if you have eyes to see it.

As you celebrate the sacrifice of Jesus this weekend, here are some Scriptures for you to meditate on that trace the thread of the suffering Messiah from Genesis to Revelation: