Hebrews 4:14

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

Hebrews 4:14 (KJV)

Context

The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians facing persecution and the temptation to turn back to Judaism. The author emphasises the superiority of Jesus Christ as the high priest and encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith. The word “therefore” connects this verse to the preceding discussion of entering God’s rest through faith in Christ, drawing a practical conclusion from that teaching.

Meaning

In the Old Testament, the high priest was a mediator between God and the people, offering sacrifices for sins and entering the Most Holy Place once a year on the Day of Atonement. Hebrews presents Jesus as the ultimate and perfect high priest. He is called “great” because of the dignity of His person, the virtue of His sacrifice, the heavenly place where He now officiates, the continuation of His priesthood, and because He makes others priests unto God.

The verse declares that Jesus “is passed into the heavens.” This refers to His ascension into heaven after His death and resurrection. Unlike earthly high priests who entered an earthly sanctuary, Jesus entered the heavenly realm, where He now serves as our High Priest. Through His exaltation, Jesus has direct access to God the Father, interceding on behalf of believers.

The exhortation to “hold fast our profession” calls believers to cling firmly to their confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. The author urges readers to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ, not wavering in the face of challenges, temptations, or persecutions. It emphasises remaining faithful to the truth of the Gospel and the confession of Jesus as the Son of God.

Biblical connections

The title “Jesus the Son of God” affirms both His humanity and divinity, grounding the believer’s confidence in His unique person and work. This verse also points forward to Hebrews 4:15, which explains that this high priest sympathizes with our weaknesses, having been tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. That connection underscores the encouragement to approach God’s throne with confidence.

Application

Hebrews 4:14 reminds us that Jesus, our High Priest, has made a way for us to approach God and receive His grace and mercy. As believers, we can find comfort and assurance in knowing that Jesus understands our weaknesses and intercedes for us. We are encouraged to remain firm in our faith, clinging to our confession of Jesus as the Son of God, even in the midst of trials and tribulations.

Reflection

Overall, Hebrews 4:14 highlights the significance of Jesus as our High Priest, His exaltation, and our responsibility to hold fast to our faith in Him. It reminds us of the privilege we have in having Jesus as our mediator and encourages us to remain steadfast in our commitment to Him.