New International VersionLet us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
New Living TranslationSo let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
English Standard VersionLet 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.
Berean Standard BibleLet 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.
Berean Literal BibleTherefore we should come with boldness to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need.
King James BibleLet us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
New King James VersionLet us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
New American Standard BibleTherefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need.
NASB 1995Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
NASB 1977Let us therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need.
Legacy Standard BibleTherefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Amplified BibleTherefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].
Christian Standard BibleTherefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.
Holman Christian Standard BibleTherefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.
American Standard VersionLet 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.
Contemporary English VersionSo whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved grace, and we will find help.
English Revised VersionLet 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.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationSo we can go confidently to the throne of God's kindness to receive mercy and find kindness, which will help us at the right time.
Good News TranslationLet us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.
International Standard VersionSo let us keep on coming boldly to the throne of grace, so that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
NET BibleTherefore let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace whenever we need help.
New Heart English BibleLet us therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace for help in time of need.
Webster's Bible TranslationLet us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Weymouth New TestamentTherefore let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our times of need. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleLet 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.
World English BibleLet’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionwe may come near, then, with freedom, to the throne of grace, that we may receive kindness, and find grace—for seasonable help.
Berean Literal BibleTherefore we should come with boldness to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need.
Young's Literal Translation we may come near, then, with freedom, to the throne of the grace, that we may receive kindness, and find grace -- for seasonable help.
Smith's Literal TranslationWe should therefore go with freedom of speech to the throne of grace, that we receive mercy, and find grace for timely assistance. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleLet us go therefore with confidence to the throne of grace: that we may obtain mercy, and find grace in seasonable aid.
Catholic Public Domain VersionTherefore, let us go forth with confidence toward the throne of grace, so that we may obtain mercy, and find grace, in a helpful time.
New American BibleSo let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.
New Revised Standard VersionLet us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleLet us, therefore, come openly to the throne of his grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishLet us come therefore publicly to the throne of his grace to receive mercy, and we shall find grace to help in a time of suffering. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentLet us come, therefore, with boldness, to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and find grace to help in every time of need.
Godbey New TestamentTherefore let us draw nigh with confidence to a throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and find grace in every opportune need.
Haweis New TestamentLet us therefore approach with boldness the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and find grace for seasonable help.
Mace New Testament
us therefore approach with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may obtain the seasonable assistance of divine mercy and favour.
Weymouth New Testament
Therefore let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our times of need.
Worrell New Testament
Let us, therefore, come with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and find grace for seasonable help.
Worsley New Testament
Let us therefore come with freedom to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace forour seasonable help.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Jesus the Great High Priest… 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. 16Let us then approachthethroneof gracewithconfidence,so thatwe may receivemercyandfindgracetohelp usin our time of need.
Cross References Ephesians 3:12In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God’s presence with boldness and confidence.
Romans 5:2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
Philippians 4:6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
1 John 5:14And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
Hebrews 10:19-22Therefore, 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, ...
James 4:6But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
1 Peter 5:7Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.
Matthew 7:7-8Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. / For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
John 14:13-14And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. / If you ask Me for anything in My name, I will do it.
1 Timothy 2:5For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
Romans 8:15For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption to sonship, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”
2 Corinthians 12:9But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me.
Psalm 34:15The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry.
Psalm 145:18The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth.
Isaiah 55:6-7Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. / Let the wicked man forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that He may have compassion, and to our God, for He will freely pardon.
Treasury of Scripture Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. come. Hebrews 10:19-23 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, … Hebrews 13:6 So that we may boldly say, The Lordis my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Romans 8:15-17 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father… the throne. Hebrews 9:5 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. Exodus 25:17-22 And thou shalt make a mercy seatof pure gold: two cubits and a halfshall be the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof… Leviticus 16:2 And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holyplace within the vail before the mercy seat, whichis upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat. obtain. Isaiah 27:11 When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off: the women come,and set them on fire: for itis a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour. Isaiah 55:6,7 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: … Matthew 7:7-11 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: … Jump to Previous ApproachBoldlyBoldnessConfidenceDrawFearFindFreedomGraceHelpKindnessMercyNeedObtainReceiveSeasonableSeatThroneTimeTimesJump to Next ApproachBoldlyBoldnessConfidenceDrawFearFindFreedomGraceHelpKindnessMercyNeedObtainReceiveSeasonableSeatThroneTimeTimesHebrews 4 1.The Sabbath-Rest for Christians is attained by faith.12.The power of God's word.14.By our high priest Jesus, the Son of God,16.we may and must go boldly to the throne of grace.Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidenceThis phrase encourages believers to come boldly before God, emphasizing the accessibility of God through Jesus Christ. The "throne of grace" signifies God's sovereign authority combined with His willingness to bestow grace. In the context of the Old Testament, the throne of God was often associated with judgment, as seen in Isaiah 6:1-5. However, through Christ's atoning work, believers are invited to approach with confidence, a concept echoed in Ephesians 3:12, where Paul speaks of having boldness and access through faith in Christ. The confidence mentioned here is not arrogance but a trust in the completed work of Jesus, who serves as our High Priest, as elaborated in Hebrews 4:14-15. so that we may receive mercy
Mercy here refers to God's compassion and forgiveness towards humanity. In the cultural context of the time, mercy was often sought from rulers or judges, but here it is freely given by God. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who often emphasized God's mercy, as seen in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). The concept of receiving mercy is also tied to the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies to atone for the people's sins, a role now fulfilled by Christ (Hebrews 9:11-12). and find grace
Grace is the unmerited favor of God, a central theme in the New Testament. It is through grace that believers are saved, as stated inEphesians 2:8-9. The idea of finding grace suggests an active seeking and receiving, which is made possible through Jesus' sacrifice. This grace empowers believers to live godly lives, as seen inTitus 2:11-12. Theologically, grace is a gift that transforms and sustains, providing strength and guidance in the believer's life. to help us in our time of need
This phrase acknowledges the human condition of dependency on God. The "time of need" can refer to any situation where divine assistance is required, whether spiritual, emotional, or physical. Historically, the early Christian community faced persecution and hardship, making this promise of divine help particularly comforting. The assurance of God's help is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen inPsalm 46:1, which describes God as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. This promise encourages believers to rely on God's provision and timing, trusting in His perfect will. Persons / Places / Events 1. The Throne of GraceThis is a metaphorical representation of God's presence and authority, emphasizing His readiness to dispense grace and mercy to believers. 2. The High PriestIn the context of Hebrews, Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate High Priest who intercedes for believers, making it possible to approach God with confidence. 3. The Audience of HebrewsThe letter is addressed to Jewish Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament sacrificial system and the role of the high priest. Teaching Points Confidence in ChristBelievers are encouraged to approach God with confidence, not because of their own merit, but because of the finished work of Christ. This confidence is rooted in faith and the understanding of Jesus as our High Priest. Receiving Mercy and GraceThe throne of grace is a place where believers can expect to receive mercy for past sins and grace for present and future needs. This is a continual process, emphasizing the ongoing nature of God's provision. Prayer as a Means of GraceApproaching the throne of grace is an invitation to prayer. Believers are encouraged to make prayer a regular practice, seeking God's help in times of need. The Role of Jesus as High PriestUnderstanding Jesus' role as High Priest is crucial. He intercedes on our behalf, making it possible for us to approach God directly and confidently. Living in Dependence on GodThis verse calls believers to live in dependence on God's grace and mercy, recognizing that human strength is insufficient for the challenges of life. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Hebrews 4:16?
2.How can we "approach the throne of grace with confidence" in daily prayer?
3.What does "receive mercy and find grace" mean for believers today?
4.How does Hebrews 4:16 connect to Jesus as our High Priest?
5.In what ways can we apply "help in our time of need"?
6.How does this verse encourage boldness in our relationship with God?
7.How does Hebrews 4:16 encourage believers to approach God with confidence?
8.What does "throne of grace" mean in the context of Hebrews 4:16?
9.How does Hebrews 4:16 relate to the concept of divine mercy?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Hebrews 4?
11.What is the meaning of Hebrews 4:16?
12.Why does mathematical modeling of prayer show no measurable effect?
13.What defines the fullness of joy?
14.What is the prayer of supplication?What Does Hebrews 4:16 Mean Let us thenThe verse opens with a warm invitation that rests on everything already said about Jesus as our compassionate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-15). Because He fully understands our human weakness, the writer urges a collective response. • “Let us” underscores that approaching God is not a solitary privilege reserved for clergy or spiritual elites; it belongs to every believer (Hebrews 10:24-25). • The word “then” links action to truth: since Christ’s work is finished, the pathway is open (John 19:30;Ephesians 2:18). • This summons echoes earlier calls to draw near (Hebrews 10:19-22) and anticipates our future gathering around God’s throne (Revelation 7:9-10).
approach the throne of grace with confidence“Approach” is an ongoing invitation, not a one-time event. God’s throne, once a place of fear for sinners (Exodus 20:18-19), is now described as “the throne of grace” because Christ’s atoning blood has satisfied justice (Romans 3:25-26). • Confidence (Hebrews 10:35) means freedom from shrinking back, the boldness of children running to their Father (Romans 8:15-16;Ephesians 3:12). • This is worship, prayer, and daily fellowship wrapped together (Psalm 27:4;Acts 2:42). • Instead of groveling, we come with reverent assurance, knowing our standing is secured by Jesus’ righteousness, not our performance (2 Corinthians 5:21).
so that we may receive mercyMercy addresses our guilt; it withholds the judgment we deserve. Every approach to God starts here. • Ongoing confession keeps the channel clear (1 John 1:9). • God’s heart is “rich in mercy” (Ephesians 2:4), eager to pardon like the father inLuke 15:20-24. • Mercy is replenished daily—“His compassions never fail; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23).
and find graceGrace goes further than mercy: it supplies what we could never earn. • Grace saves (Ephesians 2:8-9), empowers (2 Corinthians 12:9), and teaches us to live godly lives (Titus 2:11-12). • We “find” grace—discovering fresh measures exactly suited to each circumstance (James 4:6). • Both mercy and grace flow from the same throne, ensuring full forgiveness and ongoing enablement.
to help us in our time of needGod’s aid is not abstract. It is practical, timely, and sufficient. • “Time of need” can be temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13), suffering (2 Timothy 4:17), decision-making (James 1:5), or everyday pressures (Philippians 4:6-7). • The Lord is “a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1) and promises, “I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). • No crisis catches Him off guard; His grace arrives on schedule, like manna every morning (Exodus 16:4).
summaryHebrews 4:16 invites every believer to step continually into God’s presence, assured that the way has been opened by Jesus. We draw near—together—confident that we will receive mercy for past failures and fresh grace for present challenges. Whatever the need, the throne of grace never runs dry. (16) Obtain mercy.--The real meaning is, receive compassion ( Hebrews 2:17) in our weakness and trials. The thought of obtaining mercy for guilt is not in these words, taken by themselves; but "grace" meets every need. If the last verse brought evidence that our High Priest has perfect knowledge of the help required, this gives the assurance that the help shall be given as needed, and in the time of need. Verse 16. - Let us therefore come boldly (literally, with boldness) unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Let us then approachπροσερχώμεθα(proserchōmetha)Verb - Present Subjunctive Middle or Passive - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 4334:From pros and erchomai; to approach, i.e. come near, visit, or worship, assent to.theτῷ(tō)Article - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.throneθρόνῳ(thronō)Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2362:From thrao; a stately seat; by implication, power or a potentate.of graceχάριτος(charitos)Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 5485:From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act.withμετὰ(meta)Preposition
Strong's 3326:(a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives.confidence,παρρησίας(parrēsias)Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 3954:From pas and a derivative of rheo; all out-spokenness, i.e. Frankness, bluntness, publicity; by implication, assurance.so thatἵνα(hina)Conjunction
Strong's 2443:In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.we may receiveλάβωμεν(labōmen)Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 2983:(a) I receive, get, (b) I take, lay hold of.mercyἔλεος(eleos)Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 1656:Pity, mercy, compassion. Of uncertain affinity; compassion.andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.findεὕρωμεν(heurōmen)Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 2147:A prolonged form of a primary heuro, which heureo is used for it in all the tenses except the present and imperfect to find.graceχάριν(charin)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 5485:From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act.toεἰς(eis)Preposition
Strong's 1519:A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.help [us]βοήθειαν(boētheian)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 996:From boethos; aid; specially, a rope or chain for frapping a vessel.in [our] time of need.εὔκαιρον(eukairon)Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2121:Opportune, timely, suitable; perhaps sometimes: holiday, festival. From eu and kairos; well-timed, i.e. Opportune.
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NT Letters: Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore draw near with boldness (Heb. He. Hb) |
