Our Great High Priest: Holding Fast to Our Faith
"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession." - Hebrews 4:14

In the Book of Hebrews, we are reminded of the profound truth that Christ is our Great High Priest. Hebrews 4:14 states, “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.” This passage encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ role in our lives, serving as a bridge between humanity and God, and it invites us to respond with steadfastness in our faith.
The concept of priesthood in the Old Testament was integral to the life of Israel. Priests were the mediators between God and the people. They would offer sacrifices, perform rituals, and intercede on behalf of the people to make atonement for sins. However, these earthly priests were limited—imperfect beings appointed by God, who themselves needed atonement for their own sins.
In stark contrast, Jesus, described here as our Great High Priest, is perfect and sinless. The author of Hebrews emphasizes that He has “passed into the heavens.” This phrase signifies not only His ascension but also His ultimate authority and accessibility. Unlike the Levitical priests who entered the Holy of Holies once a year, Jesus entered the true Holy Place in heaven, securing our eternal redemption by offering Himself as the final sacrifice, once and for all.
As we meditate on what it means to have such a High Priest, we realize that our relationship with God is rooted in the immediacy of Jesus’ presence and sacrifice. Jesus is not distant or detached. He knows our struggles, our weaknesses, and our pains because He experienced them during His earthly ministry. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us of this intimate understanding: "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." His ability to empathize with our plight makes Him the perfect advocate before the Father.
This leads us to the call to “hold fast our profession.” What does it mean to hold fast? It implies a commitment, a confidence in faith that persists through trials, doubts, and the challenges of life. Holding fast is not merely passive waiting; it is an active assertion of trust. In a world that constantly shifts beneath our feet, where cultural values and personal circumstances may change, the Lord assures us that what we profess in faith has a solid foundation.
The phrase “our profession” refers to our confession and testimony about Jesus. It is an acknowledgment of His Lordship, our belief in His work of redemption, and the commitment to live it out daily. In light of who Jesus is—our Great High Priest—the need for us to hold firmly to this profession becomes even more critical. Every time we face adversity or uncertainty, our faith acts as an anchor, preventing us from drifting away from the truth of the Gospel.
In practical terms, holding fast might look like engaging in regular prayer and Bible study, cultivating community with other believers, and sharing our faith with those around us. It means standing firm even when circumstances tempt us to recant our beliefs or turn inward with doubt. The act of holding fast is fortified by remembering the perseverance our Savior displayed, even amid the deepest trials, and is encouraged by remembering the testimonies of those who have gone before us.
In conclusion, let us take heart in the truth that Jesus, our Great High Priest, reigns in heaven and intercedes for us. He equips us for every challenge and assures us of victory through faith. As we navigate life's waters, let us “hold fast our profession,” trusting in the sufficiency of His grace, the certainty of His promises, and the hope of His return. In our moments of weakness and uncertainty, may we find strength in the unwavering love and support of our High Priest, Jesus Christ.
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Hebrews 4:14 - "Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession."
"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession." - Hebrews 4:14
Hebrews 4:14-16 - "Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."
"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." - Hebrews 4:14-16
Hebrews 1:14
Hebrews 1:14
Hebrews 11:14 - "For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country."
Hebrews 13:14 - "For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come."
Hebrews 10:14 - "For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified."
Hebrews 4:9 - "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God."
Hebrews 4:5 - "And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest."
Hebrews 1:14 - "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?"
Hebrews 6:14 - "Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee."
Hebrews 10:4 - "For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins."
Hebrews 12:14 - "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:"
Hebrews 4:4 - "For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works."
Hebrews 7:14 - "For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood."
Hebrews 12:4 - "Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin."
Hebrews 4:12 – "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword."
Hebrews 3:14 - "For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;"
"For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country." - Hebrews 11:14
Hebrews 4:12 – "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword."
Hebrews 13:4 - "Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge."
Hebrews 5:4 - "And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron."
Hebrews 3:4 - "For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God."
"For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12
2 Chronicles 14:4 - "And commanded Judah to seek the LORD God of their fathers, and to do the law and the commandment."
"For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12
Hebrews 8:4 - "For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:"
"There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God." - Hebrews 4:9