Access to God Through Christ
J. Lathrop, D. D. Ephesians 3:12-13 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.… I. We have ACCESS. Approach to God in worship. Such a state of peace with God as allows a freedom of intercourse. II. We have BOLDNESS OF ACCESS. Fulness of liberty to draw near to God. The word also expresses that freedom of spirit with which we should come to God. The disposition of our hearts should correspond with the liberal and gracious dispensation under which we are placed. III. We have ACCESS WITH CONFIDENCE (see 1 John 3:21, 22; 1 John 5:14, 15). To confidence of success in prayer it is necessary that we "ask according to God's will" — for such things as He allows us, and in such a manner as He requires us to ask. What God has absolutely promised, He will certainly bestow. What He has promised conditionally, will follow our compliance with the conditions. IV. ALL OUR HOPE OF SUCCESS IN PRAYER MUST REST UPON THE MEDIATION OF JESUS CHRIST. In His flame we are to come before God; and in the virtue of His atonement and intercession we may hope for acceptance. Concluding reflections: 1. In the Apostle Paul we have a noble example of benevolence. He was joyful in his tribulation, finding that it conduced to the happiness of others. It is the glory of the religion of Jesus, that, where it comes with power, it enlarges the mind, purifies the affections, subdues the passions, sweetens the temper, softens the heart to sensibility and love, and excites to every good work. 2. We are taught that new converts should be assisted and encouraged in religion. 3. We farther learn, that our best support under the troubles of the world, is that boldness of access to God, which we enjoy in Christ Jesus. 4. How great a thing it is to pray as we ought to pray in such a manner, that we can truly say, "We have had access to God"! 5. Let the grace and condescension of God encourage us, unworthy as we are, to come often into His presence. He is rich in mercy to them who call upon Him. Our wants are great and numerous, and He only can supply them. Let us attend to our wants, and we shall find matter for prayer, and know what to say when we stand before Him. (J. Lathrop, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. WEB: in whom we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him.