Crisis of Confidence // A Guide to an Empowered Life / 02. Empowered… in standing before God - Tobi Ford-Western // Hebrews 4:14-16
02. Empowered… in standing before God - Tobi Ford-Western // Hebrews 4:14-16
This powerful message reminds us of our profound need for a great high priest - Jesus Christ. The sermon takes us through biblical history, from humanity's original role as priests in Eden to the Old Testament sacrificial system, culminating in Jesus as the ultimate high priest. We learn that Jesus isn't just sympathetic to our struggles; He intimately understands them, having been tempted in every way yet remaining sinless. This gives us the confidence to approach God's throne of grace, no matter our past or present struggles.
Hebrews 4:14-16, illustrates how Jesus bridges the gap between our sinful nature and God's holiness. As we reflect on this, we're challenged to embrace our restored priestly calling and draw near to God with boldness, knowing that in Christ, we find mercy and grace in our time of need.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions that humans were originally created as priests. What does this mean to you, and how does it impact your understanding of your relationship with God?
How does knowing that Jesus was "tempted in every way" comfort you in your own struggles? Share an example if you're comfortable.
Tobi describes Jesus as our "spiritual lightning rod." What do you think this means, and how does it relate to our salvation?
Discuss the concept of Jesus sympathizing with our weaknesses. How does this differ from how you may have previously viewed God's attitude toward your struggles?
The sermon talks about various wounds people might carry. Without sharing specifics, how does the idea of Jesus understanding our wounds personally affect you?
What does it mean to you that we can now approach God's throne with confidence? How might this change your prayer life?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
This week, when you face a temptation or struggle, take a moment to remember that Jesus understands and sympathizes. Journal about how this perspective affects your response.
Practice approaching God's throne with confidence in prayer. Set aside time each day to come before God, being honest about your needs, sins, and praises.
Reflect on any "wounds" you carry. Consider how Jesus might sympathize with these hurts and write a prayer asking for His healing and comfort.
Look for opportunities to show Christ-like sympathy to others who are struggling, remembering how Jesus sympathizes with us.
Hebrews 4:14-16, illustrates how Jesus bridges the gap between our sinful nature and God's holiness. As we reflect on this, we're challenged to embrace our restored priestly calling and draw near to God with boldness, knowing that in Christ, we find mercy and grace in our time of need.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions that humans were originally created as priests. What does this mean to you, and how does it impact your understanding of your relationship with God?
How does knowing that Jesus was "tempted in every way" comfort you in your own struggles? Share an example if you're comfortable.
Tobi describes Jesus as our "spiritual lightning rod." What do you think this means, and how does it relate to our salvation?
Discuss the concept of Jesus sympathizing with our weaknesses. How does this differ from how you may have previously viewed God's attitude toward your struggles?
The sermon talks about various wounds people might carry. Without sharing specifics, how does the idea of Jesus understanding our wounds personally affect you?
What does it mean to you that we can now approach God's throne with confidence? How might this change your prayer life?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
This week, when you face a temptation or struggle, take a moment to remember that Jesus understands and sympathizes. Journal about how this perspective affects your response.
Practice approaching God's throne with confidence in prayer. Set aside time each day to come before God, being honest about your needs, sins, and praises.
Reflect on any "wounds" you carry. Consider how Jesus might sympathize with these hurts and write a prayer asking for His healing and comfort.
Look for opportunities to show Christ-like sympathy to others who are struggling, remembering how Jesus sympathizes with us.
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