Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian faith, the concept of "Access to God" is foundational, emphasizing the privilege and responsibility of believers to approach the Divine. This access is not merely a passive state but involves an active, earnest seeking by the saints—those set apart for God's purposes. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that illustrate this pursuit.Biblical Foundation The earnest seeking of God by the saints is rooted in the understanding that God desires a relationship with His people. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." This verse underscores the necessity of faith and the promise of reward for those who diligently pursue God. Old Testament Examples The Old Testament is replete with examples of individuals who earnestly sought God. King David, a man after God's own heart, frequently expressed his deep longing for God's presence. In Psalm 63:1 , David declares, "O God, You are my God; earnestly I seek You. My soul thirsts for You, my body yearns for You, in a dry and weary land without water." This vivid imagery conveys the intensity of David's desire for communion with God. The prophet Isaiah also speaks to the importance of seeking God. Isaiah 55:6 exhorts, "Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near." This call to action highlights the urgency and opportunity for the saints to draw near to God. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies and teaches about access to God. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, believers are granted direct access to the Father. Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This invitation to approach God boldly is a cornerstone of Christian faith, emphasizing the open access made possible through Christ. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this access in Ephesians 3:12 , stating, "In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God's presence with boldness and confidence." This assurance of access is not based on human merit but on faith in Jesus Christ. The Role of Prayer and Worship Prayer and worship are vital expressions of the saints' earnest seeking of God. Through prayer, believers communicate with God, presenting their requests and aligning their hearts with His will. Philippians 4:6 instructs, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." This practice of prayer is a means by which believers draw near to God and experience His peace. Worship, both corporate and personal, is another avenue through which saints seek God. John 4:23 records Jesus' words, "But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him." Worship is a response to God's revelation and an expression of the believer's desire to encounter Him. The Pursuit of Holiness The earnest seeking of God is intrinsically linked to the pursuit of holiness. As believers draw near to God, they are called to reflect His character. 1 Peter 1:15-16 exhorts, "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" This call to holiness is a response to the access granted through Christ and a reflection of the believer's commitment to earnestly seek God. Conclusion The saints' earnest seeking of God is a dynamic and ongoing journey, characterized by faith, prayer, worship, and the pursuit of holiness. Through the access provided by Jesus Christ, believers are invited to draw near to God, experiencing His presence and transforming power in their lives. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 27:4One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 42:1,2 Psalm 43:3 Psalm 84:1,2 Library Reply to the Arguments of the Adversaries. My God Will Hear Me The Altar of Incense In Spirit and Truth;' or the True Worshippers. Second Lesson. In Spirit and Truth. ' Praises and Vows Accepted in Zion The Life of Mr. Robert Blair. The Barley Field on Fire The Importance of Leading a Heavenly Life Upon Earth. Authority and Work Resources Does Satan still have access to Heaven? Why does God allow Satan to enter Heaven, as recorded in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is natural revelation? | GotQuestions.org How, why, and when did Satan fall from heaven? | GotQuestions.org Access: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Access to God is by the Holy Spirit Access to God: A Privilege of Saints Access to God: Blessedness Connected With Access to God: Follows Upon Reconciliation to God Access to God: Obtained Through Faith Access to God: Promises Connected With Access to God: Saints Earnestly Seek Access to God: Saints Have, With Confidence Access to God: The Wicked Commanded to Seek Access to God: To Obtain Mercy and Grace Access to God: Urge Others to Seek Access to God: Vouchsafed to Repenting Sinners Related Terms |
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