Hebrews 4:14-5:10
Introduction:
1. So far in Hebrews we have seen a warning not to drift away from the word (2:1-4), not to harden our hearts (3:8, 15; 4:7), and not to fall through unbelief (3:12).
2. We saw the need for diligence (4:11-13), now we see the provision for diligence.
3. Jesus is our Great (Gr. mega) High Priest due to at least three key truths about Him.
Discussion:
I. Supreme Qualities
A. The list of qualities the writer gives is impressive:
1. His location (4:14; 7:24-25; cf. 1 John 2:1-2)
2. His identity (4:14; Psalms 2:7; John 3:16; Romans 1:4)
3. His sympathy (4:15; 2:10; 5:7-9; Matthew 26:36-46; Job 9:33; 1 Timothy 2:4-5)
4. His sinlessness (John 1:29; 1 Peter 2:21-25)
5. His endlessness (5:6, 10; 7:17; Psalms 110:4).
B. Why return to an inferior high priesthood?
II. Supreme Price
A. Not only is He supreme in nature to the former high priests, but His appointment cost far more.
B. While they sacrificed some civilian pursuits (Exodus 28:1; 29:4-5; Leviticus 21:6-8), Jesus sacrificed Himself (2:17-18; 4:14-15; 5:7-9).
III. Supreme Confidence
A. The resultant blessings are cause for celebration for all who approach God through Him.
B. His suffering as one of us to become our merciful High Priest granted us access like none before.
C. For this, we can approach God’s throne confident that grace and mercy are ours (4:16).
Conclusion:
1. Let this marinate just a little while; the God against whom we rebelled took on flesh, stared down temptation, coped with fear and pain and sorrow, all so He could become our Great High Priest and plead our case before the judge of all.
2. No wonder Peter replied to Jesus’ query as to whether they too would leave Him asking, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68).