The Righteous Scepter

I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel. Numbers 24:17a ESV

But of the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom.” Hebrews 1:8 ESV

The star and scepter speak of the Messiah’s royalty and authority. He would rise a powerful king to destroy all the enemies of Israel. The religious leaders interpreted these ideas exclusively as a national, political leader that would free them from Roman oppression. They disregarded the Christ that walked and talked with them.

Hebrews extends the metaphor to a scepter of uprightness. Jesus came to rise as the righteous king of power and authority in our hearts, establishing his kingdom of righteousness there. We must therefore receive his authority and extend the Kingdom of Heaven to the ends of the earth.

“Righteous King, rule in my life. I accept your righteousness and authority. Empower me for the purpose of influencing others in just and moral living.”

Advent 10: Born of a Virgin

Advent 1 - In the Beginning