Untitled Sermon (20)

Drawing Near to the Throne of Grace

Bible Passage: Hebrews 4:14–16

Summary: Hebrews 4:14–16 reminds us that we have a great high priest, Jesus, who understands our weaknesses and invites us to come boldly to the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need.

Application: This passage encourages Christians to approach God with confidence, knowing that they will find compassion and help in their struggles. It reminds believers that Jesus empathizes with their weaknesses and invites them to seek His assistance in times of need.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that Jesus, our high priest, is not distant or uncaring but is intimately acquainted with our struggles. Through His sacrifice, He has made a way for us to approach God boldly and receive the grace and mercy we need.

How this passage could point to Christ: Hebrews 4:14–16 portrays Jesus as the ultimate high priest who bridges the gap between God and humanity, fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system. He is the compassionate mediator who intercedes on behalf of believers before the throne of grace.

Big Idea: Approaching God with confidence through Jesus, our high priest, enables us to receive the grace and mercy we need in our weaknesses and struggles.

Recommended Study: For a deeper understanding of the role of Jesus as our high priest in Hebrews, explore the book of Leviticus in Logos to see how the Old Testament priesthood foreshadowed Christ's perfect priesthood. Additionally, study the concept of 'throne of grace' in other New Testament passages like Hebrews 12:2 and Romans 5:2 to grasp the significance of approaching God with confidence.

1. Confessing Our Compassionate High Priest

Hebrews 4:14

You could start by focusing on the confession of our great high priest, Jesus, emphasizing His ability to empathize with our weaknesses. Perhaps highlight how this knowledge should embolden believers to live out their faith with confidence, knowing they are understood and loved by Jesus.

2. Considering Our Sinless Savior

Hebrews 4:15

Maybe explore the significance of Jesus being 'tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.' This could involve discussing the perfect empathy and understanding Jesus has for our struggles, encouraging Christians to draw near to Him in their vulnerabilities.

3. Coming Boldly Before Grace

Hebrews 4:16

Perhaps conclude with the invitation to approach the throne of grace with confidence. You could suggest practical ways believers can do this in their daily lives, emphasizing that it is through Jesus, our high priest, that we receive mercy and find grace in times of need.

What does Hebrews 4:14–16 teach us about Jesus' role as our high priest?

How can understanding Jesus' empathy for our weaknesses affect our approach to Him?

In what ways does the 'throne of grace' symbolize God's attitude towards us in our struggles?

In what ways does the 'throne of grace' symbolize God's attitude towards us in our struggles?

Imagine walking through a crowded mall when suddenly you see a long-lost friend. You wave excitedly, only to realize they don't recognize you at all! This can feel like our relationship with Jesus; He knows us intimately and is fully aware of our struggles. Yet, we often fail to acknowledge Him. In confiding our challenges, we find comfort in our compassionate High Priest who understands our struggles and responds with love, just like that friend would if they finally recognized us.

Picture a little child who falls and scrapes their knee. They may not want to be comforted at first, thinking they can handle it alone. But when the compassionate parent kneels down, wiping away tears and tending to the wound, healing begins. Just as a little child learns to trust their parent, we can learn to confess to our compassionate High Priest who offers mercy and healing for our wounds, both seen and unseen.

Consider the story of the prodigal son. As he trudged home, rehearsing his apology, he anticipated disappointment. Instead, he was met with a running father, arms wide open. This illustrates how our compassionate High Priest eagerly awaits our confession—not to chastise, but to embrace us with love and forgiveness. Each time we confess, we are wrapped in His grace, reminding us that joyful reconciliation is only a confession away.

When your family is going through a tough time, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and disconnected. Remember, Jesus empathizes with your struggles. Set aside time to openly discuss your feelings with your family. Share moments where you've felt His compassion in your life, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. This not only nurtures family bonds but reminds everyone that they’re not alone in their suffering. Pray together, asking for strength to support each other just as Christ supports us.

In the workplace, you might face conflicts or misunderstandings with colleagues. It's essential to remember that Jesus, our compassionate High Priest, understands our challenges. When tension arises, take a moment to reflect on His empathy. Instead of reacting harshly, approach the situation with kindness. You might schedule a coffee break with the colleague you are struggling with. Use that time to listen and share how you can better support one another at work. By embodying Christ’s compassion, you can transform your work environment.

In your public life, whether in community events or even at the grocery store, it's common to encounter people who are hurting or struggling. Jesus calls us to be extensions of His compassion. When you see someone in distress—perhaps a single parent trying to manage their children or an elderly person struggling with groceries—take a moment to reach out. Offer help without expecting anything in return. Just a simple gesture can show them Christ's love and bring encouragement to their day.