Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is important in our understanding of who we are in Christ. In it, he explains many of the rich blessings of this “in Christ reality”.
In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Ephesians 3:12 NIV
This verse talks about the two sides of our approach to God. Paul says that it’s in Him and through faith. Those are the two key necessities.
The “in Christ” part was accomplished on the cross. There was nothing I could do. We’ve been talking about this for the last few posts.
The other issue is faith. That’s on my part. I must trust that the Lord has made me worthy to enter His presence. God’s Word should give me all that I need for this kind of faith.
That’s it. There’s nothing else I need in order to approach the throne of grace. It’s not about good works or becoming a better person. I can’t gain entrance to this holy place based on what I do.
Too often we get down on ourselves. We think we’re not good enough to go before the God of the universe. I’m glad that’s not the case. Jesus Christ did all the work to make me righteous in God’s eyes. I can come before Him without fear.
The Berean Literal Bible translation has this verse a little closer to the original.
…in whom we have boldness and access in confidence, by faith in Him.
Ephesians 3:12 BLB
Boldness and access. Those are two important concepts to lay hold of in approaching God.
The word, boldness, means outspokenness in the original. It means we have the freedom to speak out what’s on our heart, without fear. That’s because, when it comes to God, He already knows what’s in our heart.
The other great word is access. That’s our admission…the freedom to enter someplace. That’s like showing up to the arena with your ticket in hand. There may be guards and security present. But you can walk right in because you have your admission ticket.
Once I have my ticket, I’m not shy about entering the arena. That’s the confidence we should have in Christ Jesus. I know what He paid for my admission to God’s presence.
Christ bought for us the ability to stand clean before our God. There’s now no more guilt, no more condemnation, and no more fear.
When starting a new project or activity, if you know that you’re prepared, there’s a sense of freedom and confidence. No matter how difficult the task is that you’ve chosen, there’s no fear, only excitement and anticipation.
That’s how it is with the Lord. He’s provided us with all that we need to approach the throne of a holy God. Equipped with that knowledge, we can put forth the faith that draws us near to His matchless presence. As His Spirit moves upon ours, we can be free from the worry of shame, humiliation, or judgment.
You can approach the throne of grace with the confidence that comes from knowing that your sins are forgiven and that you’re a new creation in Christ Jesus. Find in His presence the freedom and confidence that God promises to His children. Then take what you receive and live it out in the world around you.
Paul understood the importance of this.
I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
Ephesians 3:13 NIV
Paul is basically telling this church not to worry about him and the trials he’s going through. Paul has the same access to the Father. He can find all the grace he needs to come out victoriously for the glory of God.
Go before God boldly and spend quality time in His presence. That’s where we find all that we need for life and godliness.
Question: How often do you spend time with the Lord?
© 2023 Nick Zaccardi
The Spirit and the Word 