Hebrews 4:16

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Let us {G4334} therefore {G3767} come {G4334} boldly {G3326}{G3954} unto the throne {G2362} of grace {G5485}, that {G2443} we may obtain {G2983} mercy {G1656}, and {G2532} find {G2147} grace {G5485} to help {G996} in {G1519} time of need {G2121}.

Therefore, let us confidently approach the throne from which God gives grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace in our time of need.

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.

Let 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.

Hebrews 4:16 (KJV): "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

Context

This verse follows a profound passage in Hebrews that emphasizes the high priesthood of Jesus Christ. Unlike earthly high priests, Jesus is described as one who has passed into the heavens and who can sympathize with our weaknesses, having been tempted in all points just as we are, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15). Because of His perfect humanity and divine authority, He is the ultimate mediator, providing direct access to God. This verse, therefore, serves as a powerful invitation and consequence of Christ's high priestly work.

Key Themes

  • Direct Access to God: The "throne of grace" signifies God's presence, not as a distant, fearful judge, but as a source of undeserved favor and help. Through Christ, believers have direct and continuous access to God's presence.
  • Boldness and Confidence: The exhortation to "come boldly" (Greek: parrhesia) highlights the privilege believers have. It means approaching with freedom, confidence, and without fear, a stark contrast to the limited access under the Old Covenant. This boldness is grounded solely in Christ's finished work.
  • Obtaining Mercy: In acknowledging our weaknesses and failures, we come seeking mercy, which is God's compassion and forgiveness for our sins and shortcomings. The throne is the place where mercy is readily available.
  • Finding Grace: Beyond forgiveness (mercy), we find grace, which is God's empowering presence and divine assistance. This grace is specifically "to help in time of need."
  • Help in Time of Need: The verse assures believers that God's grace is practical and available precisely when we face trials, temptations, difficulties, or any moment requiring divine intervention and strength.

Linguistic Insights

The word translated "boldly" is the Greek term parrhesia. It originally meant "freedom of speech" or "outspokenness" in public assembly. In the New Testament, it evolves to mean confidence, boldness, and even public declaration, particularly in addressing God or speaking about Christ. Coming with parrhesia to the throne of grace means approaching God with open honesty, full confidence, and without hesitation, knowing we are welcome because of Jesus.

Reflection

Hebrews 4:16 is a cornerstone verse for understanding the Christian's relationship with God through Christ. It dismantles any notion that we must approach God timidly or indirectly. Because Jesus, our sympathetic and sinless High Priest, has opened the way, we are invited to approach the very throne of the universe with confidence. This access is not based on our merit but on God's grace and Christ's sacrifice. It encourages believers to turn to God immediately in prayer and supplication during moments of temptation, suffering, weakness, or any need, with the assurance that we will receive both the forgiveness (mercy) and the divine strength (grace) necessary to overcome and endure.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ephesians 3:12

    In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.

  • Hebrews 7:25

    Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

  • Hebrews 10:19

    ¶ Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

  • Hebrews 10:23

    Let us hold fast the profession of [our] faith without wavering; (for he [is] faithful that promised;)

  • Hebrews 13:6

    So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

  • Philippians 4:6

    Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

  • Philippians 4:7

    And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
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