October 18, 2023

Hebrews 10: 19-25 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us . . . and since we have a great high priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith . . . Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together . . . but let us encourage one another . . . (NIV)

It behooves all who are entrusted with divine truth to ask themselves what is the ground of their confidence.*

Let’s just dissect this passage, phrase by phrase:

• We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus. How confident are you of your authority – not just your welcome – to walk into the Most Holy Place? If your credentials are not signed by the blood of Jesus, you will be denied entrance. 
• Since we have a great high priest over the house of God. The need for someone else to represent us has been eliminated. 
• Let us draw near to God. It is our choice whether to approach the throne or not. 
• With a sincere heart in full assurance of faith. We do not say, “God has never failed me yet.” We say, “God has never and will never fail me.” 
• Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess. Our hope is not a wish. It is based on the promise of a faithful God. 
• Let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds. Look for ways to encourage others to love and serve. 
• Let us not give up meeting together . . . but let us encourage one another. We draw strength from each other. It’s kind of hard to encourage others if we neglect the assembly.

In summary: Our confidence to approach the Most Holy God is brought to us by the blood of Jesus. His sacrifice should make a difference in how we live our daily lives. What is our part in the process? 1. Draw near to God. 2. Cling to the faith. 3. Encourage each other.

Jesus didn’t die so you could live unchanged. He died so you could live transformed.*