Let 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. Hebrews 4:16
This is one of the most popular verses in Hebrews and for good reason. The Hebrews 4:16 meaning points us to the heart of Jesus for his people. It paints a picture of how he cares for us, and how we can go to him.
This verse has some powerful lessons for us that can revolutionize our lives and faith. Let’s take a look at how we can come boldly to the throne of grace.
The Context Of Hebrews 4:16
To better understand the meaning of Hebrews 4:16 we first need to look at the context. The book of Hebrews was written to Jews who started following Jesus. Because of their faith, they were now facing persecution from Jews who didn’t believe in Jesus. This created immense pressure and temptation to turn their backs on Jesus. This book is written to encourage its readers to stand strong in their faith and keep their eyes on Jesus.
In Hebrews chapter 4 we see the author talk about the rest that God is offering his people. This is a continuation of Hebrews 3:7-19 which talks about the Israelites who lost out on the inheritance of the Promised Land because they lacked faith.
The writer of Hebrews is showing that the promise of rest is still available. But this time it’s not through a physical land, rather through Jesus.
This leads us to Hebrews 4:14-16 which is one of the famous passages in Hebrews. What we see in this section is that Jesus knows us and we can approach him. He is good and trustworthy and will provide for us.
The Hebrews 4:16 Meaning
Now that we know the context, let’s take a closer look at the Hebrews 4:16 meaning.
Let Us Then Approach God’s Throne Of Grace With Confidence
Under the Mosaic Law the high priest would intercede for the people. He would bring sacrifices to God for the sins of the people. This created a gap between God and his people. Because of their sin they couldn’t fully enter into his presence or approach his throne.
Here the writer of Hebrews is showing how Jesus has changed everything. We see Jesus described as our High Priest, but rather than bringing sacrifices, he was our sacrifice. And now because of what he has done, we can approach God’s throne in confidence. In other words, there’s nothing that separates us from God.
While today this might seem commonplace, being able to approach God with confidence is incredible. Because of Jesus we can enter into a relationship with the creator of the universe. Hebrews 4:16 shows us how Jesus changed everything.
So That We May Receive Mercy And Find Grace To Help Us In Our Time Of Need
Not only can we approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, we receive mercy and grace. Jesus is not some remote god who’s not interested in his creation. He deeply cares for and provides for his people.
Our High Priest has walked in our shoes, knows suffering, and understands our struggles. Jesus not only forgives us, he understands us. He is the perfect High Priest.
Again, while this might seem commonplace for us today, this is incredible. Hebrews 4:16 shows us that God wants to provide for our needs. This should lead Christians to continually present their needs to God and rely on him to provide.
How Hebrews 4:16 Applies To Our Lives Today
The meaning of Hebrews 4:16 should revolutionize how we approach God. This verse shows us how he cares for us and how he provides. Let’s end by looking at 2 practical ways we can live out this verse.
1. Go To God
Hebrews 4:16 shows us that God desires a relationship with his people. So much so that he was willing to walk in our shoes in pursuit of restoring the relationship. That means that we can now approach him with confidence.
When a Christian faces a problem, is having a bad day, or is celebrating, the first place they should go is to God. This verse shows us that God is close, therefore we should go to him with confidence.
2. Tell God Your Needs
Hebrews 4:16 also shows us how much God cares for us. He is deeply invested in what his people are going through. Therefore we can tell God what we need and he will provide for us.
Some picture God as a being who only wants us to obey his rules. But this verse shows us that he genuinely cares for us and wants to provide grace and mercy. This shows us his heart and should cause us to want to bring him our needs.
Whatever you are going through, whatever need you have, or whatever mountain you are facing, bring it to God. He cares about you and you can confidently present your requests to God.
Looking for a great way to grow your faith and live in the freedom God has for you? I HIGHLY recommend Mark Moore’s Core 52. With these simple 15-minute readings you will gain the tools to grow your faith. Check it out here: Core 52: A Fifteen-Minute Daily Guide to Build Your Bible IQ in a Year
BA in Biblical Studies - Ozark Christian College (2012)
MA in Theology - Regent University (2019)
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