Having
then a great high priest, who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold tightly to our confession.
Hebrews 4:14
Hebrews 4 [13.] There is no creature that is hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him to whom we must give an account. Having then a great high priest, who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold tightly to our confession. For we don’t have a high priest who can’t be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but one who has been in all points tempted like we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace for help in time of need.
Meaning:
In this verse, the author of Hebrews highlights the unique role of Jesus Christ as our High Priest. The mention of Jesus passing through the heavens alludes to His ascension to the right hand of God after His resurrection, signifying His exaltation and authority as the eternal High Priest. This exaltation underscores the superiority of Jesus' priesthood over the Levitical priesthood under the Old Covenant.
The significance of Hebrews 4:14 lies in its affirmation of Jesus' qualifications and capabilities as our High Priest. Unlike the high priests of the Old Testament, who were mere mortals and subject to sin and weakness, Jesus is the perfect and eternal High Priest, fully qualified to represent us before God. His sinless life, sacrificial death, and victorious resurrection make Him uniquely qualified to intercede on our behalf and to reconcile us to God.
This verse also emphasizes the importance of holding tightly to our confession of faith in Jesus Christ. In light of His exalted status as our High Priest, we are encouraged to remain steadfast in our commitment to Him and to continue confessing Him as Lord and Savior. Our confession of faith in Jesus Christ is not merely a one-time event but an ongoing declaration of our allegiance and trust in Him.
One cross-reference that sheds light on the significance of Hebrews 4:14 is found in Hebrews 10:21-23, where the author writes, "and having a great priest over the house of God, let’s draw near with a true heart in fullness of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and having our body washed with pure water. Let’s hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering; for he who promised is faithful." This passage reinforces the exhortation to hold fast to our confession of faith in Jesus Christ, recognizing His faithfulness and sufficiency as our High Priest.
Another cross-reference that enhances our understanding of Hebrews 4:14 is found in Hebrews 7:25, where the author writes, "Therefore he is also able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, seeing he ever lives to make intercession for them." This passage highlights the intercessory ministry of Jesus Christ as our High Priest, emphasizing His ability to save completely all who come to God through Him.
As we reflect on Hebrews 4:14, we are reminded of the privilege and assurance we have as believers in Jesus Christ. Through His perfect sacrifice and ongoing intercession, Jesus has provided a way for us to approach God with confidence and to receive mercy and grace in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16). As we hold tightly to our confession of faith in Him, may we rest in the assurance of His unfailing love and provision as our great High Priest.
In conclusion, Hebrews 4:14 exalts Jesus Christ as our great High Priest, who has passed through the heavens and intercedes for us before the throne of God. As we hold tightly to our confession of faith in Him, may we find strength and assurance in His sufficiency and faithfulness as our eternal High Priest.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible