Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for January 10, 2021

A New Year at the Throne of Grace

Hebrews 4:14-16

1. Introduction

• recipients of Hebrews
• context of this passage: 3:1, 4:11-13, 5:1-3
• two key concepts: perseverance and prayer
• Since Jesus is your great and sympathetic High Priest, persevere and pray.

2. Command 1: Hold Fast (Persevere) 14

• clarifying the concept of “confession”
• Jesus: alive, with God, Son of God
• transcendence and immanence

3. Command 2: Draw Near (Pray) 15-16

• sympathizing yet sinless
• how we draw near
• what we may expect: reception of mercy and gracious help
• not scolded for being needy

4. So What?

• “By perseverance, the snail reached the ark.” (Spurgeon)
• Affirm the vital connection between perseverance and prayer.
• “Plenteous grace with Thee is found, grace to cover all my sin; let the healing streams abound; make and keep me pure within. Thou of life the fountain art; freely let me take of Thee; spring Thou up within my heart, rise to all eternity.” (Wesley, “Jesus Lover of My Soul”)