Hebrews 4:14–16 NLT Context
The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish believers in Christ, encouraging them to remain faithful to Jesus rather than return to Judaism.
The book shows that Jesus is greater than Moses, Aaron, angels, prophets, and priests. In this particular passage, the author of Hebrews lists the many ways that Jesus is superior to the Jewish high priests.
Hebrews 4:14–16 NLT Meaning
Jesus is the ultimate High Priest. The Old Testament earthly high priest entered the most sacred part of the temple—the Holy of Holies—to offer an animal as a sacrifice for the forgiveness of the sins of the Jewish people.
But Jesus sacrificed himself rather than an animal, and he entered into the presence of God in heaven instead of the temple.
The earthly high priest was a sinful man, while Jesus had no sin. The high priest had to offer a sacrifice once a year in order for the people’s sins to be forgiven. But Jesus died for our sins once and for all.
The second part of this Scripture talks about how Jesus understands our weaknesses because he had them too. Verse 15 says Jesus faced all the tests we do.
Whatever your sin, whatever your struggle, Jesus knows how you feel. Because of this, he sympathizes with us and gives us mercy and grace.
We can take our needs to the Father because the Son gives us access, even more access than the High Priest.
Not only did Jesus sacrifice himself for us, intervening on our behalf before the throne of God, but he understands our every weakness, sympathizes with us, and offers us mercy and grace. What a Savior!
Hebrews 4:14–16 NLT Application
If you’ve ever felt that no one understands your struggles and temptations, you were wrong. Jesus knows.
He knows how you feel, he knows what you’re going through, and he knows how hard it is. Because of what he’s done for us, you can boldly go to God’s throne and receive his mercy and grace.
Whatever your difficulty, take it to the throne. Lay it at the feet of the One who knows how it feels. Give it to your perfect High Priest. He will provide understanding, forgiveness, and freedom.
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”