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Hold Fast and Draw Near

Jeff Deel
October 13, 2025
The Greatness of Jesus
Hebrews
Discipleship

Hold Fast & Draw Near — Hebrews 4:14–5:10

The Greatness of Jesus

Big Idea: Jesus is our Great High Priest—the Son of God who sympathizes, the sinless Savior who suffered, the priest appointed forever. Therefore: hold fast your confession and draw near to the throne of grace.

Scripture Reading

Read: Hebrews 4:14–5:10

Why this matters

You are invited into confident, ongoing access to God. Not because you’ve had a good week—but because Jesus has finished the work and welcomes you to come for mercy and grace “in time of need.”

Highlights

  • Great High Priest (4:14): Jesus “passed through the heavens” (ascended). He is the Son of God, so believers should hold fast their confession.
  • Sympathetic & sinless (4:15): He was tempted in every way as we are—yet without sin. He truly understands our weakness.
  • Throne of grace (4:16): Draw near with confidence (reverent assurance) to receive mercy (not getting what we deserve) and grace (receiving what we don’t deserve).
  • Real priesthood (5:1–4): Old‑covenant priests were appointed by God, dealt gently, and offered sacrifices for their own sins and the people’s.
  • Appointed forever (5:5–6): Jesus did not exalt Himself; the Father appointed Him—“You are my Son… You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.”
  • Suffering & obedience (5:7–8): In the days of His flesh He prayed with loud cries and tears (think Gethsemane) and “learned obedience” through suffering.
  • Eternal salvation (5:9–10): Having completed His mission, He became the source of eternal salvation to all who trust and obey; He is designated High Priest forever.

Reflect

  • Access: Do I draw near quickly—or only when I feel worthy?
  • Assurance: Where do I need fresh mercy and grace today?
  • Allegiance: How can I “hold fast” my confession this week—in words, habits, and decisions?

Respond

  • Baptism: Ready to publicly follow Jesus? Sign up here.
  • Find community: Build “everyday encouragement” in a Lifegroup.
  • Watch/Resources: This week’s message and tools are here.

Draw near to the throne of grace with confidence; there you will find mercy and grace to help in time of need. (Heb 4:16, summary)