Verse of the Day 5-21-22

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. Hebrews 4:14-16

The high priests of Israel could not make a perfect sacrifice and atonement for sin because they themselves stood condemned by their own sin. Verse 14 reminds believers of Jesus’ superiority over the old priestly system. Jesus passed through the heavens and sits with God. Jesus endured every temptation to the fullest extent and yet remained faithful to God. His sacrifice, his atonement and his mediation on our behalf are perfect in every way and fulfill the demands of the law. Because of Jesus’ effective priestly ministry, we should hold fast to the faith we profess. Hebrews summons believers to hold on to their faith and cling to the promises of the gospel precisely because our great high priest has accomplished the work of salvation. That is why, in verse 16, the author reminds us to come to throne of grace with confidence. The truths of verse 16 represent a dramatic reversal of our status before our faith in Christ. Prior to conversation, the throne of God would have been the seat of judgement and condemnation. Now, in Christ, we can come to God’s throne of grace and receive strength from our Lord in time of need and struggle. When Satan assaults us, when we give into temptation, when trials burden us, we must run with bold assurance to God’s presence, for our high priest-Jesus Christ the Son of God-reigns there and intercedes for us.

Today’s Bible Readings:

1 Samuel 29-31, John 11:55-12:19, Psalm 118:1-18 and Proverbs 15:24-26