Daily Devotional | Draw Near

People who travel often carry a passport. A passport is a kind of permission slip that grants its bearer access they otherwise would not have had. The message of the book of Hebrews is that the blood of Jesus is our passport into God’s presence.

The Law of Moses showed how sin closes the way into God’s presence. The Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle was off-limits to ordinary Israelites. The High Priest could enter but only once a year and not without an offering. But Jesus changed everything by offering Himself on our behalf. He gave us access to God “by a new and living way” and also acts as “a great priest over the house of God.” Therefore, the writer urges all believers to “draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings” (vv. 19–22).

Today’s reading calls any who are tempted to waver to persist in faith and continue in fellowship with other believers (vv. 23–25). The warning in verses 26–31 has troubled some believers, causing them to wonder if it is possible to lose one’s salvation. But the author is making a simple point. Anyone who rejects Jesus as their offering chooses to hold on to sin. Instead of access to God, the only alternative to Jesus Christ is “a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God” (v. 27). Jesus is the only way to be forgiven and accepted by God.

The author of Hebrews was confident that the original recipients of this letter would continue in the faith they had previously demonstrated (vv. 32 35). This is the mark of true faith. It draws near to God through Christ and does not shrink back (v. 39).

Go Deeper

Why was Christ’s sacrifice so permanent and distinct? What does this provide for you? What is the defining mark of true faith?

Pray with Us: Draw us near to You, all-powerful and all-knowing God! We know that You are able not only to save us but also to keep us on the road of true faith. Strengthen our resolve, we pray, to follow You with courage and determination.

BY Dr. John Koessler

John Koessler is Professor Emeritus of Applied Theology and Church Ministries at Moody Bible Institute. John authors the “Practical Theology” column for Today in the Word of which he is also a contributing writer and theological editor. An award-winning author, John’s newest title is When God is Silent: Let the Bible Teach You to Pray (Kirkdale). Prior to joining the Moody faculty, he served as a pastor of Valley Chapel in Green Valley, Illinois, for nine years. He and his wife, Jane, now enjoy living in a lakeside town in Michigan.