Introduction: The Call to Approach Jesus Directly
One of the most comforting and profound messages of the New Testament is that we are invited to approach Jesus directly. This invitation to directly bring our needs, confessions, and desires to Him holds a special place in Christian theology and practice. But why would some believers still hesitate or seek intermediaries? What would be gained by embracing the practice of direct connection with Jesus?
Understanding the Access Given Through Jesus
The New Testament reveals that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection opened a new way for humanity to access God. His sacrifice removed the barriers of sin, granting believers direct access to God. Hebrews 4:16 encourages us, saying,
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
This verse emphasizes that through Jesus, we can confidently approach God without needing anyone else to mediate for us.
The Biblical Foundation for Direct Access
Throughout Scripture, believers are encouraged to turn to God directly. Jesus Himself taught His followers to pray directly to God, saying, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name…” (Matthew 6:9). When Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sin, the veil in the temple tore from top to bottom, symbolizing the newfound access to God (Matthew 27:51). This event demonstrated the open invitation for all believers to approach God directly.
Barriers to Going Directly to Jesus
Despite the invitation to approach Jesus, certain factors can discourage individuals. These include feelings of unworthiness, habitual reliance on intermediaries (such as saints or spiritual leaders), misunderstandings of Scripture, or a sense of reverence that mistakenly distances us from Jesus. Addressing these barriers is crucial in helping believers feel confident and capable of going directly to Him.
Feeling of Unworthiness
Many people may feel that they are not “holy” or “good” enough to approach Jesus personally.
Reliance on Tradition
In some Christian traditions, believers have become accustomed to praying through saints or other figures, which can sometimes create an unnecessary dependence on intermediaries.
5. Overcoming the Obstacles to Direct Access
To fully embrace the privilege of approaching Jesus directly, it’s essential to address any obstacles that might be in the way. Here’s how to overcome common hindrances:
Embrace Jesus’ Sacrifice Fully
Understanding and believing that Jesus’ sacrifice covers all our sins can help us feel worthy of a direct connection with Him.
Educate on Scriptural Promises
Learning more about passages that encourage direct prayer, like Hebrews 4:16, can empower believers to confidently approach Jesus.
6. Practical Ways to Approach Jesus Personally
There are practical ways to cultivate a direct relationship with Jesus, making Him the center of our daily lives.
Spend Time in Prayer
Making prayer a consistent practice helps believers build a deeper connection with Jesus.
Engage in Bible Study
Reading the Bible allows us to hear from Jesus directly and understand His teachings more profoundly.
Practice Meditation and Reflection
Setting aside quiet moments for meditation can help us feel Jesus’ presence and guidance more deeply.
The Role of Community and Church
While a personal relationship with Jesus is vital, the role of the church community cannot be overlooked. Fellow believers can encourage each other to approach Jesus directly while also offering support, wisdom, and accountability.
Jesus as Mediator: Why It Matters
The Bible describes Jesus as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). This role is unique to Him, and understanding this can deepen our appreciation for the relationship we have access to. Unlike any earthly figure, Jesus understands our struggles and advocates on our behalf, making Him the ideal person to turn to directly.
How to Develop Confidence in Going Directly to Jesus
Understanding God’s Love and Mercy
Knowing that Jesus is always willing to listen and forgive can provide reassurance.
Learn from Others’ Experiences
Hearing testimonies from other believers can help build confidence and encourage a personal approach to Jesus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Isn’t it more respectful to go through an intermediary?
No, Jesus Himself invites us to come directly to Him, showing that it is not only respectful but a desired act of faith.
Q2: How can I feel more worthy to approach Jesus?
Believing in Jesus’ complete sacrifice for our sins helps us accept that we are made worthy to approach Him.
Conclusion: Embracing Direct Connection with Jesus
The invitation to go directly to Jesus is a gift that strengthens our relationship with Him. By understanding this privilege and overcoming obstacles, we can confidently approach Jesus, assured of His love, guidance, and grace. Let us embrace this direct connection, knowing that through Jesus, we have unique and personal access to the heart of God.