Anthony Rhodes

This is adapted from the sermon I preached on January 4, 2026 at Union Baptist Church, Lexington, TN entitled “Jesus Is the Only Constant in a Changing World” The primary verse is Hebrews 13:8.

We have officially turned the page on the calendar. Not just into a new month, but into a new year — 2026.

A new year always brings a mix of emotions: anticipation, excitement, uncertainty, and for some, a quiet anxiety about what lies ahead. As I prayed about what truth God would want us to carry into this new year, He brought me to a simple but powerful reminder:

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” — Hebrews 13:8

In a world where everything changes — culture, technology, relationships, health, finances, and circumstances — God gives us one unshakable constant: Jesus Christ never changes.

And because Jesus never changes, we can face every change in life with hope, confidence, and steady faith.

Change Is Inevitable — But Jesus Is Constant

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “There is nothing permanent except change.” And on a human level, that feels true. Everything changes.

Our church buildings change. Our technology changes. Our families change. Even we change — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Social media even reminds us of this daily with old photos showing how much life has shifted. Fashion changes. Seasons change. People change.

But Hebrews 13:8 tells us something different:

Change is not the ultimate reality. Jesus is.

He is the one constant in a changing world.

Looking Back: Jesus Was Faithful Yesterday

Hebrews 13:8 begins by pointing us backward — “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday…”

Our faith is anchored in what Jesus has already done.

When we look back through Scripture, we see Jesus healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, calming storms, raising the dead, and ultimately dying on the cross for our sins. When He cried, “It is finished,” salvation was secured and victory was won.

But “yesterday” isn’t only about biblical history — it’s also personal.

If you look back on last year, you can see His fingerprints:

He sustained you when you were weak. He comforted you when you were grieving. He carried you when you were overwhelmed. He protected you in ways you never even noticed.

Faith grows when we remember. Before you worry about tomorrow, take time to remember what God has already brought you through.

The same Jesus who spoke peace to storms is the same Jesus who held you together last year.

Living Now: Jesus Has Power Today

Hebrews 13:8 doesn’t just tell us who Jesus was — it tells us who He is.

Jesus is not a past-tense Savior. He is alive. He is present. He is active.

Right now:

He is seated at the right hand of the Father. He is interceding for His people. He is praying for you.

“He always lives to make intercession for them.” — Hebrews 7:25

That means you are never alone in what you’re facing. You may feel weak, but you are supported. You may feel confused, but you are covered in prayer.

Because Jesus has power today:

We can pray instead of panic. We can trust instead of fear. We can rest instead of strive.

We seek first His kingdom (Matthew 6:33).

We bring everything to Him in prayer (Philippians 4:6–7).

We cast our cares on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

Living in His power today means intentionally placing our fears, decisions, and uncertainties under the authority of a present Savior.

Looking Ahead: Jesus Will Be Enough Forever

Finally, Hebrews 13:8 lifts our eyes forward — “and forever.”

We don’t know what 2026 holds. There will be joys and sorrows, victories and storms, gains and losses. But here’s what we do know:

Jesus will not change.

Our future is not anchored in circumstances — it is anchored in Christ.

He is preparing a place for us (John 14:1–3).

He is coming again (Acts 1:11).

He holds tomorrow just as surely as He held yesterday.

Because Jesus is the same forever, we don’t have to fear the future. We can live boldly, serve faithfully, love generously, and trust deeply.

A Final Word

Maybe you’re still carrying something from yesterday — regret, hurt, or disappointment.

Maybe today feels heavy — filled with stress, uncertainty, or fear.

Maybe tomorrow feels intimidating.

Jesus invites you to come.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

True peace isn’t found in resolutions, control, or circumstances. It’s found in a Person.

Jesus is faithful in the past.

Jesus is powerful in the present.

Jesus is sufficient for the future.

And because He never changes, we can face every change this year with hope, confidence, and steady faith.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.