14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven,[a] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jesus has already been referred to as high priest in 2:17 and 3:1. From this point on, the author really pushes the point and lays out what it means for believers, especially for those, like many of you, who need to be encouraged to persevere, to hang on, to hold fast, and not give up...something Christians have always needed, because living as a real and faithful Christian is not easy. Simple in some respects maybe, but not easy.
In these short veres, we are told that Jesus, in his role as High Priest, sympathizes with our weakness - KJV has 'touched with the feeling of our infirmities.' He knows what you feel when tempted to give up. He knows the feeling of wanting an easier road. He knows the pull and lure of sin's siren.
So...because Jesus truly knows what all that feels like, He says to you, 'come.' Approach the throne of grace and mercy. Go to Him and find help to be faithful. Depend on Him when you fall and need mercy.
A great High Priest indeed.
16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I'm nearly confident as I should be
sometimes .Here we are told that we should be confident in asking for mercy and grace . What a concept . That is such a great verse .
I'd have to say that Matt's initial comments spell it out quite succinctly. That pretty much hits the nail on the head.
ReplyDeleteWhat helps me Doc, and this is such a gracious God-truth from this passage, is that our 'boldness' to approach has NOTHING to do with us! Which is precisely why we can approach boldly (even though we usually do it timidly). The reason for the invitation to come boldly (though not presuming on God) is because Jesus knows what you and I feel like and what it is to need His mercy and help. He knows what it is to be discouraged by circumstances and people; He knows what it is to want a different 'cup'; He knows what it is to be tempted to lighten up on all the God-stuff; He knows what it is to feel pain; He knows what it is to wish for another way; etc. And so He says, Doc, Andy, I know what you feel...so come - I've got some mercy for you. Sweet, sweet stuff, huh?!
ReplyDeleteUnbelievable !
ReplyDelete