Knowing Christ Intercedes for Me
Sunday Seminary—12
Know What You Believe. Believe What You Know.
We often talk about what Jesus did on the cross. The English theologian, John Owen, reminds us that salvation is not just about his death. We also need his life after the cross—his resurrection, ascension, and intercession. As Hebrews 7:23–25 says:
The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. 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.
In this Sunday Seminary, we focus on knowing Christ intercedes for us, continually presenting himself before the throne of God to bring us salvation.
The One Mediator
Article 26 of the Belgic Confession teaches:
We have no access to God except through the one and only Mediator and Intercessor: Jesus Christ the Righteous.
In the Old Testament, access to God came through priests and sacrifices. Now, in the New Covenant, Jesus says, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
Jesus is the divine-human Mediator. He became truly man without ceasing to be truly God, so we might approach the divine Majesty. As 1 John 2:1–2 reminds us, he is our advocate and propitiation for sin. Without this Mediator, there is no access to God.
All-Loving, All-Powerful, Always-Heard
Even when doubts and sin make us feel distant from God, Hebrews tells us Jesus is able to bring us near. Why? He is:
All-Loving: No one loves sinners more than Jesus. He gave his life for us while we were enemies. His compassion far exceeds what any saint in heaven could offer.
All-Powerful: He reigns at the right hand of the Father with all power in heaven and on earth.
Always-Heard: His prayers are continually presented before God. Intercession is ongoing; he represents our redemption as complete, ensuring God’s tender care flows to us.
So, when guilt or sin weighs you down, remember your Mediator lives, intercedes for you, and has secured your salvation.
The Saints and Our Intercessor
Our Confession warns against seeking human mediators or saints. We do not approach God based on our own dignity, nor the holiness of the saints. Our prayers are grounded in the excellence and dignity of Jesus Christ alone. Consider:
His Incarnation: He became like us to serve as merciful and faithful High Priest.
His Passion: His suffering equips him to help those tempted.
His Ascension: He encourages us to approach the throne of grace confidently.
His Intercession: He saves completely those who draw near, continually pleading for them before God.
Why seek another mediator when God has given us the perfect one?
Complete Salvation
We often focus on Jesus’ death, but his ongoing life in heaven is equally vital. He continually intercedes for us, making us confident that our salvation is secure. Jesus is the one Mediator—all-loving, all-powerful, and always-heard. He bridges the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God, ensuring that all who draw near to him are completely saved.
Rest in the intercession of Christ today. When guilt, fear, or doubt arises, bring it before God through Jesus, your eternal Mediator.
Draw near with confidence, knowing he represents you continually and perfectly.
Let this truth deepen your love, trust, and reliance on him in every moment of your life.