Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are… I. THE MAGNIFICENT OBJECT TO WHICH OUR ATTENTION IS DIRECTED. II. THE MANNER OF APPROACH SPECIFIED. 1. With liberty of access. 2. With freedom of speech. Need not be overawed by the greatness of the Being we address. We may freely and fully state our case, and make known our need. 3. With assurance of success. Need not fear a repulse. 4. With frequency of application. Original mercy-seat could only be approached annually. 5. We must come just as we are. No ceremony is required. Now we may thus come boldly, because (1) This is the way expressly laid down. (2) Because all ancient saints came in this way. (3) God's great goodness and graciousness should induce us thus to come. (4) The intercession of Christ for us, and the Spirit within us, should encourage us thus to draw near. III. THE GREAT ENDS TO BE KEPT IN VIEW IN COMING TO THE THRONE OF GRACE, 1. That we may obtain mercy. (1) Mercy to pardon our guilt. (2) Sparing mercy. (3) Daily mercy. 2. To find grace to help in time of need. Grace includes all the blessings of the Divine favour. All we need for body, soul, time, and eternity. Grace to "help" us. (1) To pray and serve God. (2) To labour in His cause. (3) To suffer for His sake. (4) And to triumph over our foes. Application: 1. Learn to what we come in prayer. 2. How we should come. 3. What we should seek — mercy, &c. (J. Burns, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. |
    |