What Does It Mean To Have Access To God Through Christ?

Understanding Access to God Through Christ

The concept of having access to God through Jesus Christ is foundational to the Christian faith. It represents the incredible privilege believers have to approach the holy God, not by their own merit but through the finished work of Jesus. This Bible study explores what it means biblically to have access to God, why this access was necessary, and how it transforms our relationship with Him.

The Problem: Separation from God

Scripture teaches that humanity’s sin created a barrier between us and God. The holiness of God and the sinfulness of man made direct fellowship impossible:

but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, so that he will not hear. - Isaiah 59:2 ASV

In the Old Testament, access to God was limited. Only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies—and that just once a year, with a blood sacrifice for his own sins and for the people (Leviticus 16).

The Solution: Christ Opens the Way

Jesus Christ, through His death and resurrection, removed the barrier of sin. He became our High Priest and our sacrifice, granting believers free access to God:

Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by the way which he dedicated for us, a new and living way, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; - Hebrews 10:19 ASV

The tearing of the temple veil at Jesus’ death symbolized this new access:

And behold, the veil of the temple was rent in two from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake; and the rocks were rent; - Matthew 27:51 ASV

What Does This Access Mean?

Direct Relationship with God:
Through Christ, believers are no longer distant from God but are adopted as His children.
But as many as received him, to them gave he the right to become children of God, even to them that believe on his name: - John 1:12 ASV
Confidence in Prayer:
We can approach God confidently, knowing our acceptance is in Christ, not our own works.
Let us therefore draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace to help us in time of need. - Hebrews 4:16 ASV
Peace with God:
Access to God means reconciliation and peace, not enmity.
Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; through whom also we have had our access by faith into this grace wherein we stand; and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. - Romans 5:1-2 ASV
Unity with Other Believers:
All who trust in Christ have equal access; there is no distinction. This is especially emphasized in the unity of Jews and Gentiles.
for through him we both have our access in one Spirit unto the Father. - Ephesians 2:18 ASV

How Do We Experience This Access?

Access to God is not something earned, but received by faith in Jesus:

because if thou shalt confess with thy mouth Jesus as Lord, and shalt believe in thy heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. - Romans 10:9 ASV

This access is lived out as we daily draw near to God, relying on the Spirit, trusting in Christ’s finished work, and maintaining fellowship through prayer, worship, and obedience.

Conclusion: The Privilege and Responsibility of Access

Having access to God through Christ is a profound gift. It means we are welcomed into God’s presence, assured of His love, invited to pray, and empowered to live for Him. This access brings comfort, hope, and transformation, all based on the finished work of Jesus.

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