Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIVUK)
14 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. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to feel sympathy for 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.
Why can we approach God’s throne with confidence? This passage could be read to say that Jesus’ sinless life in some way buys us God’s favour, or diverts God’s anger at our sins away from us, but I’m not sure that is the case. I’m convinced this isn’t the case. To me it tells us that Jesus speaks up for us and understands because he has lived in our shoes, but if we understand Jesus as showing us what God is like, surely Jesus shows us that God the Father is for us and willing to give himself for us – and that is why we can come with confidence.
Father, how wonderful that we can call you that and know that you see us with love.
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