Drawing Near: The Power of Community and Faith
Summary
The privilege of gathering together as a church is a gift from God, one that both honors Him and nourishes our souls. We are a group of imperfect people, striving to follow a perfect Savior, shaped by His Word, our worship, and our fellowship. The heart of our life together is rooted in the high priestly work of Jesus—His sacrifice, His faithfulness, and His ongoing intercession for us. Because of what Christ has accomplished, we are invited to draw near to God with sincerity and confidence, knowing that our sins are forgiven and our consciences cleansed. This nearness is not based on our own merit or ritual actions, but on the finished work of Christ, who is the true and living way to the Father.
Life can be overwhelming, and the Christian journey is often described as a race that requires endurance. We are not called to simply wait out the clock, but to live actively and faithfully, ignited and sustained by what Jesus has done. There will be times when our faith wavers, when doubts and difficulties threaten to pull us away. Yet, we are reminded to hold fast to our confession of hope—not because of our own strength, but because the One who promised is faithful. Our perseverance is rooted in Christ’s reliability, not our own.
A crucial part of this perseverance is our commitment to one another. We are called to regularly meet together, not as a matter of legalistic obligation, but because we need each other to be stirred up to love and good works. The church is not just a place to receive teaching, but a community where encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth happen. When we gather, we remind each other of the truth, we share our burdens, and we help each other cling to Christ. The Lord’s Table is a powerful symbol of this reality—it is a reminder of Christ’s faithfulness, a public declaration of our hope, and a communal act that nourishes our faith.
As we move forward, let us make it a priority to draw near to God sincerely and confidently, to cling to our faith because of Christ’s faithfulness, and to meet together regularly for mutual encouragement. In doing so, we honor God, strengthen one another, and persevere in the race set before us.
Key Takeaways
- Drawing Near to God Is a Privilege Rooted in Christ’s Work
We are invited to approach God with sincere hearts and full assurance, not because of our own worthiness, but because Jesus has made a way for us. This nearness is not achieved by ritual or mere outward action, but by genuine faith in Christ’s finished work. Even when we feel unworthy or burdened by guilt, we can confidently come before God, knowing our consciences are cleansed by Jesus. [43:19]
- Clinging to Faith Is Possible Because God Is Faithful
The call to hold fast to our confession of hope acknowledges that we will face temptations to waver. Our ability to persevere is not rooted in our own strength, but in the unwavering faithfulness of God who keeps His promises. In moments of doubt or weakness, we are to run to Christ, asking Him to help our unbelief, trusting that He will sustain us. [51:10]
- Regular Gathering with Believers Is Essential, Not Optional
Meeting together is not just a tradition, but a vital means by which we are stirred up to love and good works. The church community is designed to protect us from the deceitfulness of sin and to encourage us in our walk with Christ. Avoiding both legalism and license, we must recognize that making fellowship a priority is crucial for our spiritual health and perseverance. [01:05:37]
- Encouragement and Accountability Flourish in Community
Spiritual growth happens as we open our lives to one another, sharing burdens, praying together, and reminding each other of God’s truth. Like redwood trees with interlocking roots, we stand strong when we are connected, supporting each other through life’s storms. The church is called to be a place where no one stands alone, and where encouragement is both given and received. [01:07:56]
- The Lord’s Table Reminds Us of Christ’s Faithfulness and Our Need for Each Other
Communion is more than a ritual; it is a powerful symbol of Christ’s sacrifice and a communal act that strengthens our faith. As we partake together, we publicly declare our hope in Jesus and are reminded that He will keep His promises. This shared act nourishes us spiritually and reinforces the truth that we need both Christ and each other to persevere. [01:10:52]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[06:57] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[09:14] - The Value of Discipleship and Preparation
[13:21] - Opening Prayer and Pastoral Intercession
[32:40] - Reflections from Travels and Introduction to Hebrews
[34:02] - The High Priestly Work of Jesus
[40:01] - Drawing Near to God: Sincerity and Confidence
[43:19] - Confidence in Christ’s Cleansing Work
[46:15] - Clinging to Faith Amid Temptation
[49:12] - Perseverance Through Christ’s Faithfulness
[51:10] - Help for Our Unbelief
[52:24] - Running to Christ in Doubt
[01:05:37] - The Necessity of Gathering Together
[01:07:56] - Encouragement and the Power of Community
[01:10:52] - The Lord’s Table: Symbol and Nourishment
[01:15:23] - Closing Prayer and Benediction
[01:23:57] - Communion: Bread and Cup
[01:25:19] - Doxology and Conclusion
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
Hebrews 10:19–25 (ESV)
19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus,
20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh,
21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God,
22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.
24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,
25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 10:22, what kind of heart are we called to have as we draw near to God?
2. In verse 23, what is the reason given for holding fast to our confession of hope?
3. What are the two main actions believers are told to do for one another in verses 24–25?
4. The sermon described the church as a group of imperfect people striving to follow a perfect Savior. What are the three things that shape us as a church, according to the introduction? ([00:55])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The passage says we can draw near to God “with a true heart in full assurance of faith.” What does it look like to approach God with sincerity and confidence, especially when we feel unworthy or burdened by guilt? ([43:19])
2. The author of Hebrews tells us to “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering.” Why is it important that our perseverance is rooted in God’s faithfulness rather than our own strength? ([51:10])
3. The command to “not neglect meeting together” is given in the context of stirring up love and good works. Why do you think gathering regularly with other believers is so essential for spiritual growth and perseverance? ([01:05:37])
4. The Lord’s Table (Communion) is described as a powerful symbol and a communal act. How does participating in Communion together remind us of both Christ’s faithfulness and our need for each other? ([01:10:52])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized that drawing near to God is a privilege made possible by Jesus, not by our own merit or rituals. When you feel distant from God, what usually holds you back from approaching Him? How can you remind yourself of the confidence you have in Christ? ([43:19])
2. Think about a recent time when your faith wavered or you struggled with doubt. What helped you hold on to hope, or what could have helped you in that moment? How can you run to Christ for help with your unbelief? ([52:24])
3. The message warned against both legalism (attending church out of obligation) and license (treating church as optional). Which of these ditches are you more prone to fall into, and what practical step can you take to make gathering with believers a true priority? ([3937])
4. The sermon compared the church to redwood trees with interlocking roots, supporting each other through life’s storms. Who in your church community has helped you stand strong in a difficult season? Is there someone you can encourage or support this week? ([01:07:56])
5. Encouragement and accountability flourish in community. Are you currently opening your life to others in the church, sharing burdens, and receiving encouragement? If not, what is one step you can take to be more connected? ([01:05:37])
6. The Lord’s Table is a reminder of Christ’s faithfulness and our need for each other. How does participating in Communion impact your faith? Is there a way you can make this time more meaningful, either personally or by encouraging someone else during Communion? ([01:10:52])
7. The sermon said, “We are not called to simply wait out the clock, but to live actively and faithfully, ignited and sustained by what Jesus has done.” What is one area of your life where you need to move from passivity to active faithfulness? What’s a first step you can take this week? ([32:40])
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Devotional
Day 1: Draw Near to God Sincerely and Confidently
Because of Jesus’ high priestly work, we have the privilege of drawing near to God in worship—not with empty ritual, but with sincere hearts and full assurance of faith. This is not something we can do on our own merit, but only because Christ has cleansed our hearts and given us access to the Father. Even when we feel unworthy or burdened by guilt, we are invited to come boldly, knowing that Christ has already dealt with our sin and shame. Let your worship be genuine, not just a routine, and remember that God desires your heart above all else. [43:19]
Hebrews 10:19-22 (ESV)
"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."
Reflection: Is there any guilt or shame that is keeping you from drawing near to God today? Will you bring it honestly to Him and trust that Christ has already made a way for you to come confidently into His presence?
Day 2: Cling to the Faith—Because Christ is Faithful
We are called to hold fast to our confession of hope, even when we are tempted to waver or doubt. Life brings seasons of difficulty, loss, and uncertainty, but our perseverance is not rooted in our own strength—it is anchored in the faithfulness of the One who promised. When doubts arise, we are not meant to isolate ourselves or try to “clean up” before returning to God; instead, we run to Him, asking for help to believe and to keep going. Christ’s victory over sin and death is our assurance that we can keep clinging to faith, no matter what comes. [52:24]
Hebrews 10:23 (ESV)
"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful."
Reflection: When you face doubts or feel your faith wavering, what would it look like for you to run to Jesus instead of pulling away? Can you ask Him today to help your unbelief and strengthen your trust in His faithfulness?
Day 3: Meet Together to Encourage and Stir Up One Another
Regularly gathering with other believers is not just a tradition—it is essential for our spiritual health and perseverance. God designed the church so that we would encourage each other, stir up love and good works, and help one another resist the deceitfulness of sin. When we make meeting together a priority, we are reminded that we are not alone in our journey of faith, and we receive the encouragement and accountability we need to keep going. Avoid the extremes of legalism or treating church as optional; instead, see the gathered church as a gift for your growth and endurance. [01:07:56]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: What is one practical way you can encourage someone in your church family this week—either by reaching out, praying with them, or sharing how Christ has helped you?
Day 4: Christ’s Work Ignites and Sustains an Active, Faithful Life
Jesus’ high priestly work is not just a theological truth to be admired—it is meant to ignite and sustain an active, faithful life in His followers. Because of what Christ has accomplished, we are called to live out our faith with intentionality, perseverance, and love. The Christian life is not about passively waiting for heaven, but about running the race, growing in Christlikeness, and letting His work shape every part of our lives. Let the reality of Jesus’ sacrifice and ongoing intercession move you to action and deeper devotion. [34:02]
Philippians 3:12-14 (ESV)
"Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you sense God calling you to take a more active step of faith or obedience because of what Christ has done for you?
Day 5: Encourage One Another by Sharing Christ
Encouraging others in the faith does not require you to have all the answers or original insights; it simply means sharing Christ and what He has done in your life. When you open up about how God has helped you, comforted you, or given you hope, you offer real encouragement to others who may be struggling. The gathered church is a place where we remind each other of Christ’s faithfulness, share our burdens, and point one another back to the hope we have in Him. Let your encouragement be rooted in the gospel and the reality of Jesus’ ongoing work. [01:15:23]
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (ESV)
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."
Reflection: Who is one person you can encourage this week by sharing a specific way Christ has comforted or helped you recently? Will you reach out to them and offer that encouragement?
Quotes
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