In what ways can we rely on Jesus' mediation in our prayer life? Jesus: Mediator of a Better Covenant “Now, however, Jesus has received a far superior ministry, just as He is the mediator of a better covenant, which is established on better promises.” (Hebrews 8:6) What Makes This Covenant “Better” for Prayer? • Direct access—no earthly priest needed (Hebrews 10:19–22) • Cleansing that truly removes sin’s barrier (Hebrews 9:14) • Promises secured by Christ’s own blood, not our performance (Luke 22:20) Relying on Jesus’ Mediation—Key Truths to Hold • He alone bridges the gap: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5) • His work is finished yet His intercession continues: “He always lives to intercede for them.” (Hebrews 7:25) • Every promise God made now comes to us through Him: “For all the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:20) Confident Access to the Throne of Grace • Because our High Priest sympathizes with weakness, we “approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:14–16) • Prayer begins with assurance, not anxiety—He welcomes us. Continuous Intercession on Our Behalf • “Christ Jesus…is at the right hand of God—and He is interceding for us.” (Romans 8:34) • Even when words fail, His ongoing advocacy steadies our petitions. Freedom from Condemnation While Confessing Sin • “If anyone sins, we have an advocate before the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” (1 John 2:1) • Guilt is confessed honestly, yet lifted immediately; we pray from grace, not groveling. Alignment with Better Promises • His covenant promises guide what we ask: forgiveness (1 John 1:9), wisdom (James 1:5), peace (John 14:27). • Praying “in Jesus’ name” means leaning on His merit and asking in harmony with His revealed will (John 14:13–14). Practical Ways to Lean on His Mediation • Begin prayer by thanking Him for opened access. • Picture His throne of grace, not a distant courtroom. • Bring needs boldly, trusting His ongoing intercession. • Confess sin immediately, receiving cleansing instead of carrying shame. • End requests with confidence: “Because of Jesus, Amen,” resting in His better covenant. |
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