Note the assurances of having Jesus as our personal representative in heaven: “Tempted in every way, just as we are.” “Sympathize with our weaknesses.” “Help us in our time of need.” Jesus as our High Priest can usher us into the very presence of God. No wonder we’re urged to “approach the throne of grace with confidence.”

What place does Jesus occupy in heaven?

“But when this priest [Jesus] had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD.”
—Hebrews 10:12.

The living Christ—someone who understands—is our personal representative on the throne “at the right hand of God.”

How did the life of Jesus prepare Him to be our priest?

“For this reason he had to be made like his BROTHERS in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, HE IS ABLE TO HELP those who are being tempted.”
—Hebrews 2:17, 18.

Our “brother” who shares our humanity and was “tempted” like we are, is now our High Priest at the Father’s right hand. “Made like” us, He knows what we’re going through. He’s been hungry, thirsty, and exhausted. He’s felt the need for sympathy and understanding. He’s experienced the anguish of intense temptation. But above all, Jesus is qualified to be our priest because, as the Lamb of God, He died for our sins.