When we think of thrones we think of majesty, nobility and something regal. We also think of it as elevated and ornate. And even more than that we think of one whom sits on the throne, how they embody those same characteristics

Another thing about thrones is they are seemingly unapproachable, especially to a commoner or even lower. For someone to approach a throne there is this elaborate process to have the privilege of approaching one who sits on a throne. Of course the other way to end up before a throne is to commit a great crime against the one on the throne.

Let me put this before you. That is the state of every one of us. We have committed great crimes against The One on the throne and we deserve the full wrath of His authority. So let’s picture what we find in this throne room.

We see a king high and lifted up, whose robe fills the great hall. He is surrounded by glorious servants who guard His majesty and glory. The brilliance is breathtaking, nearly blinding. It is almost too painful to look upon. We are also struck with the fact that we should not be here. We are unworthy. In fact, if there is a judgment is to be meted out we deserve completely. But then the unthinkable happens. As we are rehearsing all our crimes against this sovereign we hear this strong voice saying (and I think of the line from the ghost of Christmas yet to come.) Come closer and know me better child. We have to take a moment and wonder if we heard right. Come closer and know me child, not depart from me into a wretched exile. How did this happen? How do we get this blessing, to have someone pleading our innocence? While in one corner an accuser is laying out all my faults another says no he is welcome here.

When the accuser tempts me to despair and tells me of the guilt within, another pleads and proclaims my innocence.

Now I realize I am not in filthy rags and torn garments but I am in a stunning white robe.

There, alongside the King of glory is another one but I see scars from a brutal beating, who is saying I lived a life of perfect obedience to the laws of this throne and I count that as His. I have transferred my righteousness to the accused and absorbed His guilt in my death.

We come before a throne today, and today you can hear this from the throne the words of Hebrews 4:14-16 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. ¹⁵ For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. ¹⁶ Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

I also encourage you to learn the lyrics of Before the Throne of God Above” by Charitie L. Bancroft, 1863