How does Hebrews 3:1 connect with Jesus as our High Priest in Hebrews 4:14? Setting the Scene: Two Anchors, One Thought “Therefore, holy brothers, partners in a heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Jesus.” (Hebrews 3:1) “Therefore, since we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess.” (Hebrews 4:14) Both verses begin with “Therefore,” signaling a logical bridge. The writer wants us to start by contemplating Jesus (3:1) so that we end up confidently clinging to Him (4:14). Our Heavenly Calling and Holy Family • Hebrews 3:1 addresses “holy brothers,” a family identity rooted in the new birth (John 1:12–13). • We share a “heavenly calling,” fixed in eternity (Philippians 3:20). • Because the calling is heavenly, only a Mediator who has come from heaven and returned there (John 3:13) can secure it. Jesus: Apostle and High Priest — Two Titles, One Mission • Apostle: Sent from God to us (John 20:21). • High Priest: Now ascended, representing us to God (Hebrews 7:24–25). • Together the titles span the full redemptive arc—incarnation downward, intercession upward. From Consideration to Confidence — How 3:1 Leads into 4:14 1. Contemplate (3:1) → Firm hold (4:14). Meditation produces assurance. 2. “Confession” (3:1) parallels “what we profess” (4:14). The truth we speak about Jesus is the truth that steadies us. 3. “High Priest” appears in both verses; 3:1 introduces the office, 4:14 describes its greatness (“great High Priest”) and position (“passed through the heavens”). Why His Heavenly Passage Matters • Levitical priests entered an earthly veil once a year (Leviticus 16). Jesus passed through the heavens once for all time (Hebrews 9:24). • Because He is enthroned, His intercession never ends (Romans 8:34). • Our security rests on His permanence, not our performance (Hebrews 7:25). Holding Fast to the Confession Practical ways to grip the hope Hebrews offers: • Repeat aloud the truths of Hebrews 3:1 and 4:14 when tempted to waver. • Trace His priestly work in Scripture—Heb 2:17; 5:7–10; 7:23–28—to deepen confidence. • Gather with fellow “holy brothers” (Hebrews 10:24–25); shared confession strengthens individual resolve. Practical Encouragement for Today • When guilt surfaces, remember the High Priest who made “atonement for the sins of the people” (Hebrews 2:17). • When trials threaten, look to the Apostle who brings heaven’s resources to earth (Philippians 4:19). • When the future feels uncertain, rest in the One who has already “passed through the heavens” and will bring you safely home (John 14:3). |
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