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Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 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 on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:19-25
In the book of Hebrews, the author communicates the greatness and majesty of Jesus. When this book was written, first-century Christians struggled as they endured persecution, abandonment, and even death. The audience in the book of Hebrews are those who were born into the Jewish faith and community, but have since embraced the call of Christ and professed their love for Him.
Some within the community began questioning whether their newfound faith was worth it. Many renounced their faith in Jesus and returned to their Jewish roots. Why? Many saw it as easier and more comfortable. Others, though, were striving to endure. They needed to be reminded repeatedly that Jesus was better and worth it.
Here in this section of Hebrews, the author paints a beautiful picture of the community of Christ. A community that we should still strive for today. The author points out a few realities.
We have confidence.
Because of what Jesus has done, we have assurance when all else seems uncertain.
The blood of Jesus has provided more than we can know.
Without Jesus, we have no access to the holy God. We were separated from Him because of our sinful state. Yet, in the beauty of the greatest tragedy, the blood that flowed from the cross has cleansed you and me. So now we have access. God is within reach.
We can draw near.
God has come near to us. Jesus left the throne of heaven and entered into our mess, so that we can come near to Him. Let us do so with assurance and confidence.
He is faithful.
No one else has the track record of God when it comes to faithfulness. What He has promised, He will deliver. Our eternity is kept and secured.
So in light of those truths, what do we do?
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
This week, begin to put this into practice. Gather together. Build one another up. Grow together.