Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
English Standard Version (ESV)
While we often think of "mercy" for our sins and "grace" for our current struggles, the wording here subtly suggests we "obtain" mercy (implying it's something actively received and taken) but "find" grace. This hints that mercy is a free gift for past wrongs, while grace is discovered through seeking, actively enabling us for future needs.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The author has just established Jesus as our sympathetic and all-knowing High Priest who has passed through the heavens. Because of this, the readers are encouraged not to drift away from their faith, but to hold fast to it. This verse serves as a direct, practical application of these truths, urging believers to approach God with confidence, knowing they have a merciful High Priest who understands their struggles and grants them grace.
Ever felt like you needed to tiptoe around God? This verse shatters that idea, inviting you to approach Him with incredible confidence.
The key word here is 'boldly' (or 'confidence'). It's not about being loud or brash, but about having a settled assurance.
What 'Boldness' Means:
We don't just get one thing when we come to God's throne – we receive two distinct, vital blessings. What are they, and why does the distinction matter?
The verse promises that we will 'receive mercy and find grace'. While often used interchangeably, the Bible presents them as complementary gifts for our journey.
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Mercy for the Past, Grace for the Future:
Think of it this way: Mercy deals with the problem of our sin, and Grace provides the power to live rightly in light of that forgiveness.
Life throws curveballs. This verse assures us that God's help isn't just available; it's perfectly timed for when we need it most.
The phrase 'to help in time of need' points to a crucial aspect of God's provision: its perfect timing.
Seasonable and Sufficient Support:
Understand the original words
parrhesia · Greek Noun
The quality of being bold, courageous, or outspoken; in a theological context, it refers to the freedom of speech and boldness believers have in prayer because of Christ's finished work.
proserchometha · Greek Verb
To approach or move toward someone or something; in worship, it signifies entering into God's presence, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
thronon · Greek Noun
The royal seat of God; it represents His sovereign authority, ruling power, and the place from which He governs the universe and dispenses His divine favor.
charitos · Greek Noun
God’s unmerited favor toward the undeserving; it is the active power of God that enables, sustains, and transforms the believer, separate from human merit.
eleos · Greek Noun
Compassion or kindness shown toward someone who is in a miserable or needy state, specifically the withholding of the judgment that is deserved.
eukairon · Greek Adjective
The appropriate or opportune time for something to occur; in a spiritual sense, it refers to the critical moments when a believer is faced with struggle or temptation and requires divine intervention.
This verse describes God meeting with Israel above the mercy seat on the Ark of the Covenant, which the New Testament writers, like the author of Hebrews, understood as a foreshadowing of God's throne of grace in heaven.
Psalm 51:1David's plea for mercy, 'blot out my transgressions,' echoes the need for mercy that Hebrews 4:16 highlights, showing the Psalmist's recognition of God's compassionate nature.
Isaiah 55:6-7This passage invites people to seek the Lord while he may be found and call on him while he is near, directly relating to the idea of approaching God's throne for mercy and help when it's needed.
Luke 11:13Jesus assures his followers that their heavenly Father will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him, highlighting the Father's willingness to grant gracious help when His children seek it.
1 Corinthians 10:13This verse offers a similar promise of God's faithfulness in not allowing us to be tempted beyond our limits, and always providing a way out, directly aligning with finding 'grace to help in time of need.'
wesleyHebrews 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."
4:16 Let us therefore come boldly - Without any doubt or fear. Unto the throne of God, our reconciled Father, even his throne of grace - Grace erected it, and reigns there, and dispenses all blessings in a way of mere, unmerited favour.
ellicottHebrews 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."
(16) Obtain mercy. —The real meaning is, receive compassion ( Hebrews 2:17 ) in our weakness and trials. The thought of obtaining mercy for guilt is not in these words, taken by themselves; but “grace” meets every need. If the last verse brought evidence that our High Priest has perfect knowledge of the help required, this gives the assurance that the help sha…
While we often think of "mercy" for our sins and "grace" for our current struggles, the wording here subtly suggests we "obtain" mercy (implying it's something actively received and taken) but "find" grace. This hints that mercy is a free gift for past wrongs, while grace is discovered through seeking, actively enabling us for future needs.
The author has just established Jesus as our sympathetic and all-knowing High Priest who has passed through the heavens. Because of this, the readers are encouraged not to drift away from their faith, but to hold fast to it. This verse serves as a direct, practical application of these truths, urging believers to approach God with confidence, knowing they have a merciful High Priest who understands their struggles and grants them grace.
The author has just established Jesus as our sympathetic and all-knowing High Priest who has passed through the heavens. Because of this, the readers are encouraged not to drift away from their faith, but to hold fast to it. This verse serves as a direct, practical application of these truths, urging believers to approach God with confidence, knowing they have a merciful High Priest who understands their struggles and grants them grace.
"Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." — While we often think of "mercy" for our sins and "grace" for our current struggles, the wording here subtly suggests we "obtain" mercy (implying it's something actively received and taken) but "find"…
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Last reviewed October 2026