To qualify as a U.S. Special agent, a trainee has to pass rigorous tests in a variety of situations: running a half mile in tactical gear, scaling a 6 foot cinder block wall, learning shooting techniques, dragging a 100-pound dummy 25 yards. These skills require excellent physical and mental health, practice, and discipline. Only after passing these and other strenuous exercise tests can a trainee become a U.S. special agent. We are told by the writer of Hebrews CH 5 that our Lord Jesus Christ was qualified to be our High Priest before Almighty God. He qualified by totally submitting himself to and passing rigorous human temptation and suffering. In contrast to Adam who chose to disobey God and as a result, plunged all humanity into sin and death, Jesus chose to obey the perfect will of God. As a result, God declared Him qualified to serve as our eternal High Priest. His endurance helps us know why God sometimes permits his children to endure suffering. It can well be God’s way of preparing us to achieve His highest purpose for us.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
