This section of Hebrews focuses on how Jesus is superior to the Jewish priesthood. There also is a brief change of topic when the writer warns the readers against laziness by not moving past basic Christian doctrines into “meatier” teachings (5:11-6:3). Apparently the Hebrews were not applying what they were learning. So true for many of us today!
This weekend, I was trying to determine what to write about from this week’s Scripture. I couldn’t really land on anything specific until I heard last night’s lecture. Read Hebrews 4:14-16:
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 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. 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.
Because Jesus is our Great High Priest, we can confidently approach God’s throne of grace. Do I realize what a great privilege this is? In the Old Testament, the Israelites didn’t have direct access to God. They could only approach Him through a priest. And the high priest could enter God’s presence in the Holy of Holies just once a year. Now we can enter His presence at any time, from anywhere. What a privilege!
In what manner do I approach God’s throne? How often to I approach His throne? Do I do it boldly? Reverently? I’m still working on my prayer life this year, so this was a good reminder about how I should approach God’s throne. I want to picture myself in God’s presence as I come before Him in worship, thanksgiving and petition.