Take Bold Steps (6): Approaching God with Confidence by Pastor Otabil

Introduction

In his concluding sermon on boldness, Pastor Mensa Otabil of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) delivers a powerful message about approaching God with confidence.

This final installment in the “Take Bold Steps” series shifts focus from confronting external challenges to boldly coming before God Himself.

The New Testament Approach to God

Pastor Otabil highlights the stark contrast between Old and New Testament approaches to God.

While Old Testament worship relied heavily on intermediaries due to fear of God’s presence, Jesus Christ ushered in a new era of direct access to the Father. 

Unfortunately, many Christians still operate with an Old Testament mindset, feeling distant from God and seeking human mediators.

Jesus as Our High Priest

The sermon emphasizes Jesus’ role as our compassionate and conquering High Priest. Unlike Old Testament priests, Jesus not only understands our struggles but has overcome them all. This unique position allows believers to approach God’s throne with unprecedented boldness.

Coming Boldly Before God

Pastor Otabil outlines three key aspects of approaching God boldly:

1. Without shame: Even when we sin, we can come to God for forgiveness without hiding.

2. Without fear: For Christians, Judgment Day is not a time of uncertainty but a day of reward.

3. With confidence: We can freely access God’s presence because of Jesus’ work on our behalf.

God’s Response to Our Boldness

When we approach God boldly, He offers three things:

1. Mercy: God’s kindness extended to us daily.

2. Grace: God’s joyful distribution of gifts and abilities to His children.

3. Help: God’s appropriate assistance in our time of need.

The Uniqueness of God’s Help

Pastor Otabil emphasizes that God’s help manifests differently for each person. For some, He removes burdens; for others, He provides strength to carry them. Both are equally valid testimonies of God’s work in our lives.

The Exclusivity of Christ

The sermon concludes by reaffirming that Jesus is the only way to approach God. Church attendance, offerings, or prophecies cannot substitute for a personal relationship with Christ.

Conclusion

Pastor Mensa Otabil’s message challenges believers to embrace the full benefits of the New Covenant.

By understanding Jesus’ role as our High Priest and approaching God with boldness, Christians can experience a deeper, more intimate relationship with their Heavenly Father. 

This transformative approach to faith empowers believers to live confidently, knowing they have direct access to God’s mercy, grace, and help in every situation.