How does John 16:26 connect with Hebrews 4:16 about approaching God confidently? Setting the Scene John 16 records Jesus’ farewell teaching to His disciples; Hebrews 4 urges believers to persevere by relying on Christ’s finished work. Though written to different audiences, both passages converge on one truth: because of Jesus, believers may come directly and confidently to the Father. Key Texts • John 16:26 – “In that day you will ask in My name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf.” • Hebrews 4:16 – “Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Two Passages, One Invitation • John 16:26 looks forward (“In that day”) to the post-resurrection era when believers can approach the Father in “My name.” • Hebrews 4:16 describes what that era now looks like—approaching God’s throne “with confidence.” • Together they reveal that asking “in Jesus’ name” (John) and coming “with confidence” (Hebrews) are two sides of the same privilege: unfettered access to the Father. Why We Can Come Boldly 1. The Finished Work of Christ – Hebrews 4:14-15 highlights Jesus as the great High Priest who sympathizes with our weakness yet remained sinless. – John 19:30 (“It is finished”) confirms the atoning work that removes every barrier between God and believers (cf. Ephesians 2:18). 2. The Ongoing Intercession of Christ – Hebrews 7:25: “He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.” – John 16:26 clarifies that Jesus’ intercession does not replace our prayers; instead, His name authenticates and empowers them. 3. The Father’s Love for the Son—and for Us – John 16:27: “For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came from God.” – Romans 5:1-2: we “have peace with God” and “access by faith” through Christ. God’s throne is no longer a place of dread but of grace. Practical Outworking • Pray Directly: We need no earthly mediator or elaborate ritual. • Pray Confidently: Our boldness rests not in personal merit but in Jesus’ righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Pray Expectantly: The throne of grace dispenses “mercy” for past failures and “grace” for present and future needs. • Pray Continually: Because access is secured, Hebrews 4:16’s verb “approach” can be rendered “keep on coming.” Living This Confidence – When guilt whispers, remember 1 John 1:9 and return to the throne. – When weakness overwhelms, recall Philippians 4:6-7 and petition the Father. – When spiritual opposition intensifies, stand on James 4:7-8: “Submit yourselves therefore to God… Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” The Lord Jesus has opened the way; Hebrews 4:16 urges us to walk it often. |
    |