“Having therefore brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way…” Hebrews 10:19
Dear Ones:
There are many pictures that God has given to us in the Scriptures, which teach us certain spiritual realities and truths. The understanding of these truths is essential if there would be an appropriation of the blessings that are in Christ. Primary to our understanding of that which is essential in the life of the believer, is the matter of his or her approach to God, or drawing near to God. How can the issue of “nearness” even be a consideration when we are always in His presence, as He is in every place at all times? The answer lies in truly knowing God, knowing and being convinced of His presence, power, and provision. It is that essential of communion with God that takes precedence over all else. What then are some of these illustrations, these pictures, which help us to grasp what God has called each one of us to understand, so that we may truly know communion with Him?
The first picture to be considered is that found in Hebrews 4, where this life of communion and our approach to God, is based on the meaning of the “throne of grace.”(v.16) The author of this letter is led by the Spirit to first speak of the matter of true faith being based on the declarative word of God. He speaks of the “word of God” as being, “quick”( living), and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword.” (v.12) Why? Because in speaking of the “throne of grace,” and what it means, we are called upon to believe, take by faith, all that the Spirit of God gives us to understand. If our experience of knowing God will increase, we must grasp the true meaning of our approach to God. The second thing we need to see is that there is a “great high priest,” who has preceded us into the heavens, “Jesus the Son of God.” (v.14) Not only does the believer have the authoritative word of God to direct his mind and heart, but the very Son of God, to assure and maintain that the way to God is kept open, and available. He is that sole mediator between God and man, and the only one who can present us to God the Father without spot, covered in His perfect righteousness. There is another reason for which we need to see this Great High Priest. Scripture tells us that, as our high priest, he is perfectly acquainted with our infirmities, weaknesses, and vulnerability to sin and temptation. Though He was tempted in all points like as we are, He was without sin. Thus, the declared, objective word of God, and the Great High Priest who is perfectly faithful to present us to God, regardless of our limitations and weaknesses, are essential and certain provisions by God for the believer to come with absolute assurance before God, being bold in his coming. But what do the words, “throne of grace” mean?
The word “throne” usually always speaks of authority and power, in this case, the total capacity, ability, and commitment of God, to give grace to the one who comes seeking Him. We come just as we are, in Jesus’ name, “to obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (v.16) God extends His hand of mercy to all those who earnestly seek it. The accompanying promise is that he will give His grace “in time of need.”
The second picture of communion with God is that of the heavenly temple, where a “new and living way” has been consecrated for us to use. We are brought into the “holiest,” that place of earnest, true, and lasting fellowship with God, that closest proximity to God. This is all possible by “the blood of Jesus.” (10:19) Because of our faithful High Priest, the believer can truly “draw near” to God, “…with a true heart in full assurance of faith.” (v.22) It is there that true faith proves the faithfulness of God.
Dear Father, We would truly draw nigh to Thee for Jesus’ sake. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Love, Dad