Hebrews 13:8 (ESV) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
This week’s memory verse is short but contains much power. It speaks both the everlasting nature of Jesus Christ and His unchangeable nature. As humans we are not really beings but “becomings.” We are always changing while Christ is truly being. He is always consistent and dependable according to His Word. The theological term for this is Immutability. J. I. Packer said:
The doctrine of God’s immutability is of the highest significance for religion. The contrast between being and becoming marks the difference between the Creator and the creature. Every creature is continually becoming. It is changeable, constantly striving, seeks rest and satisfaction, and finds this rest in God, in him alone, for only he is pure being and no becoming. Hence, in Scripture God is often called the Rock …
He is not effected by mortality or anything else that would hinder Him from providing leadership, encouragement, strength or whatever is needed by His church. Our earthly leaders come and go, but Jesus is there forever.
He is also unchanging in his promises. Once he has promised something, he will not be unfaithful to that promise. In our recent study of Habakkuk we know that the prophet was standing on the fact that God would not break his promise of the Abrahamic covenant with Israel (Judah). Our Lord is dependable. He will be the same tomorrow as he is today. He will fulfill His commitments.
In John 8:58, Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” Not only does Jesus say that He is God in this statement but it refers to His everlasting nature. All of creation became manifest through Him and He is now ruling from the right hand of God. He is interceding on our behalf as our heavenly priest. Jesus will always be available to us in all our circumstances.
This verse indicates at least three truths: the divinity of Christ; the immutability of Christ; and the constant faithfulness of Christ to his people. As such it is powerful Christology. Let us not forget that we have a living Lord who will always be consistent because He does not change and His love truly endures forever.
By Mike Roe