SUBJ: The assurances given us in the
entering in of Christ to the Holy of Holies and the encouragement to act
in a way of confidence in Him - He is faithful that promised.
AIM: That we should so act upon that
which is so graciously provided in Christ our Lord.
INTR: There are so many things that we
learn in Scripture upon which we fail to act.
1. We often hear the
words "I believe in the power of prayer.”"But the question remains, do
those uttering those words act upon them in a way of expectation.
2.
Consider here the reason of writing the book of Hebrews. The objective
of the writer was to show the limitations and restrictions of the Old
Testament system in comparison to the liberty (boldness) that we have in
Christ - to show the "better things" in the priesthood of Christ our
Lord.
3. As we assess the provisions made and look to the way (Jesus
is the way), should we not honor God in pursuing his provisions as we
are bidden.
THESIS: The
provisions of God are not merely optional conveniences. They are being
incorporated into our lives that we might be better able to glorify him.
It is to the great delight of believers to be able to glorify God in
their lives.
I. Boldness and Access (vv. 19-20)
1. Consider
here the parallel passage: Hebrews 4:14-16
2. There are many things
that we read of that God has done for us and no response is required.
There are many things, however, wherein it is given that God has done
thus and so and a response from us is indicated.
3. By the blood of
Jesus and compare here the "Day of Atonement."
4. Here we read of the
provision of a new and living way.
1) We would note that the way is
new in the sense that we are being renewed in our relationship with Him.
2) We would further note that it is living implying an active
relationship with God in Christ.
3) It is into the holiest.
5. It
is a consecrated (margin: "new made") way. Some suggest the meaning
"newly opened." No alternate routes are provided. His body or His
humanity.
6. It is that Jesus went that way himself. Thus, our High
Priest has entered in before us.
1) Often Old Testament Kings
indicated that a certain person was their priest.
2) We note the
possessive in referencing to our High Priest.
7. We are often taught
to "count the cost." Here we are to consider the cost to our Lord.
II. Conditions met (vv. 21-22)
1. Thus, having a High Priest
consider how He has qualified us to enter.
2. A true heart - one of
purity: See Matthew 5:8 - they shall see God!
3. Hearts sprinkled -
dedicated, sanctified, having a renewed motive and aim. John Gill: "...
by the Spirit of God, purges it from dead works, cleanses it from all
sin, and speaks peace and pardon to it..."
4. Washed with pure water
- the regenerating and ongoing work of the Spirit upon us and within
5. Thus, we are made acceptable into the very presence of God and may so
approach with boldness to do so:
1) First with regard to Christ
having entered as the man Christ Jesus and
2) Then by virtue of His
purifying work of redemption in every way.
III. The Exhortation
to Act (vv. 22-25)
1. The answer is here, "let us draw near with a
true heart." (v. 22)
1) There is a lot of "let us" in the Bible.
2) See Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your
hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:8.
The context of this passage in James is one of correction. The principle
is of old and still applies.
2. Hold Fast (v. 23)
1) Consider the
same exhortation in Hebrews 4:14.
2) And consider Paul's directive to
Timothy - Lay hold on eternal life.
3) Jesus is the profession of our
faith.
3. Consider one another (v. 24)
1) Normally provocation has
a negative implication - here we might think of inspiring unto.
2) It
is the agape love that is here referenced.
4. Conclusion:
1) More
than we realize men hesitate at approaching the Throne of Grace in that
they think themselves unworthy.
2) When by faith we are reminded that
we are sprinkled by the blood of Christ things change.
i. It is from
an evil conscience.
ii. The presence of a proper conscience is
indicated by our concern as we approach.
3) Furthermore, our bodies
washed with pure water - - the grace of the Spirit: Not by works of
righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved
us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Titus 3:5.
4) And so, we are made "accepted in the beloved."
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