This verse describes a scene where a figure of authority (likely King Antiochus Epiphanes or one of his officials) is observing a Jewish man who has already been arrested and bound ("encompassed with chains"). The authority figure then orders the man to be brought closer so that he can try to persuade him to change his mind, presumably about his adherence to Jewish law.

Here's a breakdown:

"seeing him already encompassed with chains": This establishes that the Jewish man is a prisoner, already restrained. It highlights his vulnerability and the power imbalance in the situation.
"had him brought nearer": The authority figure wants to be closer to the prisoner, perhaps to intimidate him more directly, or to create a more intimate setting for persuasion. This suggests a deliberate action to engage with the prisoner personally.
"and endeavoured to counsel him, saying,": This indicates an attempt to advise or persuade the prisoner. The word "counsel" suggests a strategy beyond simple orders. The authority figure aims to change the man's beliefs or actions through reasoning or promises. The "saying," which follows, will contain the actual words of persuasion.

In the context of 4 Maccabees, which emphasizes the superiority of reason over passion, this verse is part of a larger narrative about Jewish individuals who chose to endure torture and death rather than violate their religious beliefs under persecution. The authority figure's attempt to "counsel" the prisoner will likely involve arguments to convince him that it's better to abandon his faith and save his life. The Jewish man's subsequent refusal underscores the central theme of the book.