"ASSURED AND ENCOURAGED"

TEXT: HEBREWS 10: 19-25

READING: HEBREWS 4: 1-16

 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."