Boldness At the Throne

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Hebrews 4:15

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are…

I. HERE IS OUR GREAT RESORT DESCRIBED: "The throne of grace." Indrawing near to God in prayer we come —

1. To God as a King, with reverence, confidence, and submission.

2. To one who gives as a King; therefore we ask largely and expectantly.

3. To one who sits upon a throne " of grace " on purpose to dispense grace.

4. To one who in hearing prayer is enthroned and glorified.

5. To one who even in hearing prayer acts as a sovereign, but whose sovereignty is all of grace.

II. HERE IS A LOVING EXHORTATION: "Let us come." It is the voice of one who goes with us. It is an invitation —

1. From Paul, a man like ourselves, but an experienced believer who had much tried the power of prayer.

2. From the whole Church speaking in him.

3. From the Holy Spirit.

III. HERE IS A QUALIFYING ADVERB: "Boldly."

1. Constantly, at all times.

2. Unreservedly, with all sorts of petitions.

3. Freely, with simple words.

4. Hopefully, with full confidence of being heard.

5. Fervently, with importunity of pleading.

IV. HERE IS A REASON GIVEN FOR BOLDNESS. "Therefore."

1. "That we may obtain mercy, and find grace"; not that we may utter good words, but may actually obtain blessings.

(1)  We may come when we need great mercy because of our sin.

(2)  We may come when we have little grace.

(3)  We may come when we are in need of more grace.

2. There are many other reasons for coming at once, and boldly.

(1)  Our character may urge us. We are invited to come for " mercy," and therefore undeserving sinners may come.

(2)  The character of God encourages us to be bold.

(3)  Our relation to Him as children gives us great freedom.

(4)  The Holy Spirit's guidance draws us near the throne.

(5)  The promises invite us by their greatness, freeness, sureness, &c.

(6)  Christ is already given to us, and therefore God will deny us nothing.

(7)  Our former successes at the throne give us solid confidence.

3. The great reason of all for bold approach is in Jesus.

(1)  He once was slain, and the mercy-seat is sprinkled with His blood.

(2)  He is risen, and has justified us by His righteousness.

(3)  He has ascended and taken possession of all covenant blessings on our behalf. Let us ask for that which is our own.

(4)  He is sympathetic, tender, and careful for us; we must be heard.Conclusion:

1. Let us come to the throne, when we are sinful, to find mercy.

2. Let us come to the throne, when we are weak, to find help.

3. Let us conic to the throne, when we are tempted, to find grace.

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