Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for October 27, 2024

Cause for Confidence

Hebrews 4:14-5:10

Series: Highlights in Hebrews

1. Introduction

• context of this passage: 3:1, 4:11-13
• 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. Comparison and Contrast 1-10

• humanity of Aaron (1-4)
• humanity of Jesus (5-10)

5. So What?

• Affirm the vital connection between perseverance and prayer.
• “Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing, were not the right man on our side, the man of God’s own choosing. Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He; Lord Sabaoth His name, from age to age the same; and He must win the battle…” ( Luther, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”)
• “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”)