"For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15, KJV).
"In your opinion, who is the greatest person who ever lived, and who has done more good for mankind than anyone else who ever lived?" I asked a student who was both an atheist and a card-carrying Communist.
There was an awkward silence. Then finally came this reluctant reply, "I guess I would have to say Jesus of Nazareth."
How could an atheist and a Communist, who had been reared in another religion, give such an answer?
Jesus has done more good for mankind than anyone else who has ever lived. He is the greatest person of the centuries, because it is a fact. Compare Jesus, even as a man, with any other person - Muhammad, Buddha, Confucius, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, anyone else in any country at any time in history - and it would be like comparing a giant with a midget.
Though he lived 2,000 years ago and changed the course of history, though He was the greatest leader, the greatest teacher, the greatest example the world has ever known, He is infinitely more than these. He is God.
The omnipotent Creator God visited this little planet earth and became a man, the God-man, Jesus of Nazareth. He was perfect God and perfect man, and as perfect man He understands our weaknesses, since He had the same temptations we do - though He never once gave way to them and sinned.
Do you believe that Jesus ever had the temptation to lie, to lust, to steal or to be immoral? Make a list of your temptations, all your weaknesses, all your failures, and then, as suggested in the verse following our reference, "Let us come boldly to the very throne of God and stay there to receive His mercy and to find grace to help us in our times of need" (Hebrews 4:16).
Today's Action Point
Since Jesus is my high priest and knows everything about me, having been tempted as I am and yet without sin, I will come boldly into His presence today and every day. I will come to receive His mercy and grace to live a supernatural life, which will enable me to live victoriously and to be fruitful for the glory and praise of His matchless name.
