January 16, 2004

THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith " (Hebrews 12:2, NIV).

The dual title "author and perfecter of our faith," portrays Christ as the beginning and completion of the plan of salvation. God's redemptive master plan begins and ends with Christ. The Greek word translated "author" is also rendered "leader," "originator," "founder," and "pioneer." Christ is all of these in the plan of salvation.

In this context, the word, author, suggests a combination of originator and leader. Not only does the active principle of faith originate with Christ, but its exhibition in the life of the believer is made possible through Him. Jesus Christ has become the unique and authentic leader of all who believe (see John 5:19). Salvation is always God's initiative. As the very resource of grace, Christ leads the way to hope and eternal life.

It is not sufficient merely to begin a journey; it is the safe arrival that gives meaning and purpose to it. The jubilant end of a race is crossing the finish line. That's why Christ is portrayed as both "author and perfecter" (NIV), or "author and finisher" (KJV). The word finisher is more accurately rendered as "perfecter" (Greek, teleiotes). Hence, Jesus Christ not only begins our salvation, but He perfects it as well. "We can do nothing to originate faith, for faith is the gift of God. Neither can we perfect it, for Christ is the Finisher of our faith. It is all of Christ."--Signs of the Times, May 16, 1892.

The great objective of life is the ultimate perfection made possible through the work of Christ in and for us. Paul assures us that "he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Philippians 1:6, NIV). The work that Christ begins in us through justification, He perfects through sanctification. From start to finish, it is Christ who works in us both "To will and to act according to his good purpose" (Philippians 2:13, NIV).

My Prayer Today: Lord, author and perfecter of our faith, perfect me daily into Your likeness. Amen.