Hebrews 4:16

Let us therefore. Verse 16 states the practical conclusion of the entire line of thought presented in chs. chs. 3 and 4. God’s “rest” of grace remains to the people of God (v. 9); “let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace.”

Boldly. Gr. parresia, translated “confidence” in ch. 3:6 (see comment there; cf. ch. 10:35). We come boldly, not because God is indebted to us, but because God freely offers His grace to all who seek it.

Throne of grace. That is, a throne characterized by the quality of grace (see on Rom. 3:24; 1 Cor. 1:3). Instead of vain, laborious attempts to earn salvation by a rigorous compliance with the requirements of the legal system of Judaism, or, for that matter, any system of righteousness by works, the Christian has the privilege of free access to the grace of a loving Father.

Obtain mercy. That is, secure forgiveness for sins (see on 1 John 1:9). At the throne of judgment all will find strict justice untempered by mercy. The sinner’s only hope is God’s mercy, offered while probation lingers.

Grace. Gr. charis (see on John 1:14; Rom. 1:7; 3:24; 1 Cor. 1:3).

To help in time of need. That is, in time of temptation. We need grace to endure hardship and suffering, and grace to overcome temptation. He who makes it a habit to come daily to the throne of grace for a fresh supply of God’s mercy and grace enters into the “rest” of soul God has provided for every sincere believer.