Even though the word of God discovers the true condition of our heart (4:11-13), the writer of Hebrews shares these verses so we do not feel like we have no where to turn. For those who have trusted in Jesus Christ, He has become their High Priest. In the Old Testament the high priest would go through the outer court, Holy Place, and the Holy of Holies once a year in order to make an atoning sacrifice for the sins of the people. Although this sacrifice did not forgive sin, it symbolized death which was required for the forgiveness of sin. The writer says that much like the high priest, Jesus came through the heavens to become our High Priest. Distinct from the animal sacrifice which was made once a year, Jesus Christ was the once for all sacrifice which brought forgiveness of sin. Paul in Romans 5:19 says it like this: “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.” Adam’s sin brought sin, but through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ many are made righteous. What are the results of having Jesus Christ as our High Priest? The writer mentions a few benefits. First, Jesus understands how we feel when tempted to sin. He can identify with the struggle a person goes through when they are faced with the choice of good and evil. Although Jesus Christ never gave in to temptation, He knows what we experience. Another benefit to having Jesus as High Priest is that we can come into His presence at any time. The Old Testament priest only came before God once a year, but we can personally run into God’s presence at any time. The writer tells us to “come boldly to the throne of grace.” The last benefit he mentions is we can “obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Because we have been forgiven from sin, God freely provides grace to those who are being tempted or to those who simply need strength for the road ahead. What an amazing thought!
Dear God, help me to experience Your strength as I face the trials and temptations each day!
