The Throne Of Grace

Introduction: The Great "Therefore"

The book of Hebrews was written to a group of people who were weary. They were tempted to give up, to go back to the old ways, and to stop pressing forward in their faith. Perhaps you feel that way today—burdened by the struggles of life, the weight of sin, or the anxiety of the unknown.

But right before our text, the writer reminds us that we have a great High Priest, Jesus the Son of God. He is not distant; He is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. He was tempted like we are, yet He remained without sin.

Because of who He is, we are told what we can do. The verse begins with "Let us therefore..." Because Jesus has opened the way, we have an invitation that the Old Testament saints could only dream of.

I. The Manner of Our Approach: "Come Boldly"

The first thing we notice is how we are to approach God. The text says, "Let us therefore come boldly."

In the ancient world, you did not just walk up to a king. If you approached a throne without permission, you risked death (think of Queen Esther). Yet, the King of Kings invites us to come boldly.

* Not with Arrogance: This boldness isn't about demanding rights or acting proud.

* With Assurance: The Greek word here implies "freedom of speech" or "frankness." We don't have to hide our true feelings. We don't have to use fancy words.

* Because of the Blood: We can be bold not because we are perfect, but because Jesus has paid the price. The veil of the temple was torn in two; the barrier between a holy God and sinful man has been removed by Christ.

Application: Do you pray with hesitation, wondering if God wants to hear you? Or do you come with the confidence of a child running to their father?

II. The Destination: "The Throne of Grace"

Where are we going? We are approaching a throne. A throne speaks of:

* Authority

* Sovereignty

* Judgment

* Power

Usually, a sinner standing before a throne is a terrifying thing. A throne is where sentences are passed and judgment is executed. But look at how God describes His throne for the believer: it is a Throne of Grace.

It is not a throne of judgment—Christ took that judgment on the cross. It is not a throne of merit—where you get only what you have earned. It is a place where the ruling principle is unmerited favor. When you are weak, when you have messed up, when you have nothing to offer, this is the one place you are safe.

III. The Purpose: "Mercy and Grace to Help"

Why do we go? The verse gives us two specific reasons and a specific timing.

1. To Obtain Mercy

Mercy is not getting what we deserve. We deserve punishment; we deserve silence. But when we come to this throne, God withholds the judgment we earned. He looks at us and sees the righteousness of His Son.

2. To Find Grace

Grace is getting what we do not deserve. It is the strength to endure, the power to overcome, and the joy that defies circumstance.

* Mercy deals with our past sins.

* Grace equips us for our present and future struggles.

3. In Time of Need

God’s delivery system is perfect. The text promises help "in time of need."

Sometimes we want grace for next year's problems right now. But God promises daily bread. He promises that when the need arises, the supply will be there. He is never too early, and He is never too late.

Conclusion

You do not have to carry your burden alone today. The King is seated, but He is not looking to condemn you. He is waiting for you to approach.

The door is open. The High Priest is sympathetic. The Throne is one of Grace.

Let us, therefore, come.