Hebrews 4:16 - Let 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.
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What does "Hebrews 4:16" mean?
Hebrews 4:16, "Let 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," is a powerful encouragement to believers in Jesus Christ. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Let us therefore draw near...": This "therefore" connects to the previous verses in Hebrews 4, which discuss Jesus as our High Priest who understands our weaknesses because he was tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. Because of this connection and empathy, we can confidently approach God. "Draw near" implies a close, intimate relationship with God, not a distant or fearful one.
"...with boldness...": This is a key element. "Boldness" (Greek: parrhesia) means confidence, frankness, openness, and freedom of speech. It's not arrogance, but a justified assurance based on what Christ has done for us. We don't need to be timid or hesitant when approaching God because of our sin or shortcomings. Jesus has paid the price, and we are accepted through Him. This boldness is not something we manufacture ourselves but is given to us through our relationship with Christ.
"...to the throne of grace...": The "throne of grace" is God's seat of authority, but specifically characterized by grace. It contrasts with a throne of judgment. While God is just and will judge sin, in this context, the emphasis is on his undeserved favor and loving-kindness offered to those who come to Him through Jesus. It's a place where we can find forgiveness, comfort, and provision.
"...that we may receive mercy...": "Mercy" is God's compassion and forbearance towards us, even though we deserve punishment. It's not getting what we do deserve (punishment for our sins). When we come to God, we can expect to receive his mercy, his compassionate overlooking of our failings because of Christ's sacrifice.
"...and may find grace for help in time of need.": This speaks to God's enabling power and provision. "Grace" here is God's unmerited favor that empowers us to overcome challenges and meet our needs. "Help in time of need" indicates that God is particularly available and responsive in times of difficulty, weakness, and crisis. It's a promise that He will provide the strength, wisdom, resources, and whatever else we need to navigate life's challenges.
In summary, this verse means:
Because Jesus is our sympathetic and perfect High Priest, we can confidently approach God, knowing that He offers us undeserved favor and compassion, not condemnation. We can expect to receive mercy, forgiveness, and the empowering grace we need to cope with life's difficulties and find victory over our struggles. It's an invitation to a close, dependent, and trusting relationship with God, especially in times of trouble.
The verse encourages us to:
Believe in Jesus' role as our High Priest: Understanding His sacrifice and empathy is crucial for feeling comfortable approaching God.
Pray with confidence: Don't be afraid to ask God for help, even when you feel unworthy.
Trust in God's character: Believe that He is a God of grace and mercy who wants to help you.
Seek God's help in times of need: Don't try to handle everything on your own. Rely on God's strength and provision.
This verse is a cornerstone for understanding the Christian faith and the nature of our relationship with God.
Hebrews 4:16 - Let 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.
What does "Hebrews 4:16" mean?
Hebrews 4:16, "Let 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," is a powerful encouragement to believers in Jesus Christ. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Let us therefore draw near...": This "therefore" connects to the previous verses in Hebrews 4, which discuss Jesus as our High Priest who understands our weaknesses because he was tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. Because of this connection and empathy, we can confidently approach God. "Draw near" implies a close, intimate relationship with God, not a distant or fearful one.
"...with boldness...": This is a key element. "Boldness" (Greek: parrhesia) means confidence, frankness, openness, and freedom of speech. It's not arrogance, but a justified assurance based on what Christ has done for us. We don't need to be timid or hesitant when approaching God because of our sin or shortcomings. Jesus has paid the price, and we are accepted through Him. This boldness is not something we manufacture ourselves but is given to us through our relationship with Christ.
"...to the throne of grace...": The "throne of grace" is God's seat of authority, but specifically characterized by grace. It contrasts with a throne of judgment. While God is just and will judge sin, in this context, the emphasis is on his undeserved favor and loving-kindness offered to those who come to Him through Jesus. It's a place where we can find forgiveness, comfort, and provision.
"...that we may receive mercy...": "Mercy" is God's compassion and forbearance towards us, even though we deserve punishment. It's not getting what we do deserve (punishment for our sins). When we come to God, we can expect to receive his mercy, his compassionate overlooking of our failings because of Christ's sacrifice.
"...and may find grace for help in time of need.": This speaks to God's enabling power and provision. "Grace" here is God's unmerited favor that empowers us to overcome challenges and meet our needs. "Help in time of need" indicates that God is particularly available and responsive in times of difficulty, weakness, and crisis. It's a promise that He will provide the strength, wisdom, resources, and whatever else we need to navigate life's challenges.
In summary, this verse means:
Because Jesus is our sympathetic and perfect High Priest, we can confidently approach God, knowing that He offers us undeserved favor and compassion, not condemnation. We can expect to receive mercy, forgiveness, and the empowering grace we need to cope with life's difficulties and find victory over our struggles. It's an invitation to a close, dependent, and trusting relationship with God, especially in times of trouble.
The verse encourages us to:
Believe in Jesus' role as our High Priest: Understanding His sacrifice and empathy is crucial for feeling comfortable approaching God.
Pray with confidence: Don't be afraid to ask God for help, even when you feel unworthy.
Trust in God's character: Believe that He is a God of grace and mercy who wants to help you.
Seek God's help in times of need: Don't try to handle everything on your own. Rely on God's strength and provision.
This verse is a cornerstone for understanding the Christian faith and the nature of our relationship with God.