Jesus, Our Access to God

Jesus died to bring us to God. That brief statement in 1 Peter 3:18 gives His suffering a deeply personal purpose. The righteous One suffered for the unrighteous so that people separated by sin could draw near to the Father. When we remember His body and blood, we should consider both the cost and the relationship His sacrifice makes possible. Forgiveness is not merely relief from a record of failure. Through Christ, we are welcomed into fellowship with the God we need every day.

The tabernacle helps us appreciate that privilege by contrast. Hebrews 9:1–10 describes its furnishings, priestly service, and restricted entrance into the inner sanctuary. Ordinary worshipers did not enter the Most Holy Place, and the high priest entered with blood on the appointed yearly occasion. These arrangements belonged to God’s covenant with Israel and pointed beyond themselves. We should not conclude that Israelites could never pray or receive forgiveness before that day. The particular contrast is restricted sanctuary access and the greater approach Christ would open.

Jesus provides what no animal offering could finally accomplish. John the Baptist identifies Him as the Lamb of God who takes away the world’s sin (John 1:29). Hebrews 9:11–14 describes His entrance through His own blood, obtaining eternal redemption and cleansing the conscience for service to the living God. He is both the great High Priest and the One who offers Himself. Our confidence rests in His sufficient sacrifice, not in our ability to devise a better remedy or establish our own worthiness.

Other tabernacle images invite reflection on blessings Jesus supplies personally. Its light and bread remind us of the Savior who gives light and identifies Himself as the bread of life (John 6:48–51). These connections enrich remembrance without requiring us to turn every furnishing into a precisely defined prediction. Hebrews 7:25 states His ongoing intercession directly: He lives to intercede for those who draw near through Him. The One who offered His life has not become an absent figure. Our living Lord continues His priestly work.

Hebrews 10:19–22 brings the practical response into view. Because of Jesus’ blood and His priesthood, believers are called to draw near with sincere hearts and full assurance of faith. The passage speaks of cleansed hearts and bodies washed with pure water. The invitation does not dismiss obedient faith or make sin unimportant; it directs our confidence toward the provision Christ has made. We do not have to stand at a fearful distance as though His sacrifice had accomplished nothing for us.

Take this truth into prayer, worship, and the responsibilities waiting after worship. Approach the Father with gratitude for the Son who brings you near. Confess sins honestly, seek His help, and let a cleansed conscience lead to willing service. Remembering Jesus should strengthen the relationship His death was intended to provide. The cross is costly love with a gracious purpose. Honor that purpose by drawing near in faith and living as someone who treasures fellowship with God.