This word, which only occurs once in the Bible, introduces us to the Lord Jesus as the "beginner and completer of faith" (Heb 12:2), who has now arrived in heavenly glory after completing His course of faith. He is the first to arrive (= forerunner). At the Rapture (1 Thes 4:16ff), the Lord Jesus will come and raise up the redeemed who have fallen asleep as well as transform the living redeemed (Phil 3:20-21) in order to introduce them to heavenly glory. Then the "forerunner," as the "firstborn," will be surrounded by "many brothers [sisters in faith are included]." Today, the "forerunner" is working in the heavenly sanctuary for his own people to support them on the way to their heavenly home. Redeemed children of God already have boldness in the Spirit "to enter the sanctuary" (Heb 10:19). Soon, we, too, with glorified bodies, will be forever where He already is.
