Hebrews 4

KJV · Chapter 4/13

1Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.

2For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

3For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

4For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.

5And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.

6Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief:

7Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

8For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.

9There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.

10For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.

11Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

12For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

13Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

14Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

15For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

16Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

📖 Chapter study

Summary

The author continues the theme of God's 'rest,' explaining that a promise of spiritual rest is still available to God's people, different from the mere physical rest of the land of Canaan. He describes the Word of God as living and able to discern the innermost thoughts.

Explanation

The 'rest' mentioned here is not merely geographic (the promised land), but spiritual: a state of trust and peace that comes from truly believing in God, something the wilderness generation lost through unbelief. The reference to the seventh day of rest at creation (Genesis 2:2) connects this theme to the broader idea that God offers genuine rest to a weary humanity. The chapter ends with an encouraging invitation to 'come boldly to the throne of grace,' since Jesus, as high priest, understands human weaknesses. Today's practical application is to seek this inner rest through faith, rather than trying to reach it only through one's own effort.

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