Hebrews 7:25, “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.”
We all have heard incredible testimonies of people being saved from a life of sin. Those are a testimony in themselves of the power of Christ’s salvation transforming lives. But look at the two-letter word “to” in this verse: “he is able to save to the uttermost who draw near to God . . .” David Guzik’s commentary states, “Most people read this verse as if it says Jesus is able to save from the uttermost. But it really says Jesus is able to save to the uttermost.” As John 10:28 declares, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” Because Jesus is our high priest, He saves us forever, “to the uttermost who draw near to God.”
Jesus is our high priest forever. As I go about my day, Jesus Christ is interceding for me. Romans 8:34 declares, “Christ Jesus is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” This signifies effective intervention. He declares His will of blessings being bestowed on us and removing the charges and accusations of Satan. The enemy condemns but Christ convicts. Therefore, Jesus always succeeds in carrying out His Father’s will, bestowing grace, mercy, and deliverance when needed. This should eliminate my fear of failure because God is sovereign. John Piper’s definition in defining the term “sovereign” means, “When we say God is sovereign, we mean he is powerful and authoritative to the extent of being able to override all other powers and authorities. Nothing can successfully stop any act or any event or design or purpose that God intends to certainly bring about.” Job said in Job 42:2, “I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” Doesn’t that take out the “why” of some things? The question should be, OK God, since you can do all things, how do you want to use me in this situation and what do you want me to learn?
“Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father, and the wounds in His hands and feet, the scars on His brow, the hole in His side settle the issue. Jesus isn’t talking the Father into being merciful to me. He’s not asking the Father to be lenient with me. His scars alone are sufficient. That’s why when Thomas finally saw Jesus, Jesus didn’t say to him, “Let’s talk doctrine. He said, “Touch My wounds (John 20:27).” Jon Courson’s Application Commentary: NT. I need to remember that.
So now, think about drawing near to God and how Jesus is interceding with Him for you. He already knows what is ahead of you in your day. Sit and be still and ask the Lord to talk to you. Read one of the Psalms and pray it (along with today’s verse). What is He saying to you? Draw near to God, to His faithfulness, to righteousness found in Christ, to everlasting peace, to the joy found in His presence, His comfort, His shield of protection, His refuge, and Him balancing the scales of holy judgment. Jesus has been interceding to God on your behalf. He knows your name (Isaiah 43:1). Sit at His feet. Linger in His presence. Don’t be in a hurry. Share your concerns and needs. Then think of what Jesus might have been interceding with the Heavenly Father for you about. Reflect and examine what you need to confess and change. Then let the radiance of spending time with your great Shepherd revive you with His radiant glory (Ps. 34:5) from talking to God because goodness and mercy shall follow all the days of your life (Ps. 23). Christ’s intercession is ongoing and complete. He has purged your sins. Look at His wounds. Stop doubting and believe. Take heart in knowing, “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God, through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25.
Listen to Casting Crowns – The Power of the Cross (Official Lyric Video)