Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The concept of "Access to God is of God" underscores the theological understanding that humanity's ability to approach and commune with the Divine is initiated and facilitated by God Himself. This principle is rooted in the Christian doctrine of grace, emphasizing that it is not by human merit but by God's sovereign will and provision that individuals can enter into His presence. Biblical Foundation: The Bible consistently affirms that access to God is granted by His initiative and through His means. In the Old Testament, access to God was mediated through the sacrificial system and the priesthood, as seen in the Levitical laws. However, these were mere shadows pointing to the ultimate access provided through Jesus Christ. New Testament Revelation: The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of God's plan for access through Jesus Christ. In the Book of Hebrews, it is written, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, His body" (Hebrews 10:19-20). This passage highlights that it is through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Christ that believers have direct access to God. Role of Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is central to the doctrine of access to God. He is described as the "one mediator between God and men" (1 Timothy 2:5). Through His atoning work, Jesus reconciles humanity to God, breaking down the barrier of sin that separated them. Ephesians 2:18 states, "For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit" , emphasizing the Trinitarian involvement in granting access. The Work of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in facilitating access to God. The Spirit indwells believers, enabling them to cry out, "Abba, Father" (Romans 8:15), signifying an intimate relationship with God. The Spirit also intercedes for believers, as noted in Romans 8:26, ensuring that their prayers align with God's will. Grace and Faith: Access to God is a gift of grace, received through faith. Ephesians 2:8-9 declares, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage underscores that access is not earned but granted by God's gracious provision. The Role of the Church: The Church, as the body of Christ, serves as a community where believers collectively experience and express their access to God. Through corporate worship, prayer, and the sacraments, the Church becomes a conduit of God's presence and grace. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds" and to "not neglect meeting together," highlighting the communal aspect of accessing God. Conclusion: The doctrine that "Access to God is of God" is a profound testament to God's love and sovereignty. It reassures believers that their relationship with God is secure, not because of their own efforts, but because of His divine initiative and provision through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. This access is a privilege that calls for gratitude, reverence, and a life lived in response to God's grace. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 65:4Blessed is the man whom you choose, and cause to approach to you, that he may dwell in your courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, even of your holy temple. Torrey's Topical Textbook Greek 4318. prosagoge -- a bringing to ... the prefix ). All three occasions of 4318 ("interactive access") refer to "having audience ( access) with God" (JB Lightfoot, ). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4318.htm - 7k Library What God Will do for Us The Way to God The Intercourse of God and his Friend A Dialogue with God Whether the Son of God in Human Nature Ought to have Assumed ... My God Will Hear Me What God is to Us. Union and Communion with God the End and Design of the Gospel The Lamb of God, the Great Atonement "But it is Good for Me to Draw Near to God: I have Put My Trust in ... Resources Was Joseph married before Mary? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the tree of life? | GotQuestions.org What is Verbal Plenary Preservation? | 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 |
    |