The concept of "The Privilege of Access" in the Bible refers to the extraordinary opportunity granted to believers to approach God directly through Jesus Christ. This access is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the intimate relationship between God and His people, made possible through the redemptive work of Christ.

Old Testament Background

In the Old Testament, access to God was limited and mediated through the priesthood and sacrificial system. The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, served as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The Most Holy Place, or Holy of Holies, was where God's presence was most concentrated, and only the High Priest could enter, and that only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2-34). This restricted access underscored the holiness of God and the separation caused by sin.

The Role of Jesus Christ

The New Testament reveals a transformative shift in the privilege of access through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:19-22 states, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."

Jesus, as the Great High Priest, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice, tearing down the barrier between God and humanity. The tearing of the Temple veil at the moment of His death (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes this newfound access, signifying that believers can now approach God directly.

Access Through Faith

The privilege of access is granted through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1-2 affirms, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we stand." This access is not based on human merit but on the grace of God, received through faith.

Prayer and Communion with God

One of the most profound expressions of this access is the ability to communicate with God through prayer. Believers are encouraged to approach God with confidence, as stated in Hebrews 4:16 : "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This invitation to approach God boldly underscores the intimate relationship believers can enjoy with their Creator.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in facilitating this access. Ephesians 2:18 declares, "For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." The Spirit indwells believers, guiding them in truth and enabling them to experience the presence of God in their daily lives.

Corporate Access

While individual access to God is emphasized, the New Testament also highlights the corporate aspect of this privilege. Believers, as the body of Christ, are collectively the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16). This communal access fosters unity and encourages mutual edification within the church.

Eternal Access

The privilege of access is not limited to this life but extends into eternity. Revelation 21:3 envisions the ultimate fulfillment of this access: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This eternal communion with God is the culmination of the privilege of access, where believers will enjoy unbroken fellowship with their Creator forever.