Therefore
This word connects the current passage to the preceding discussion in Hebrews 3, where the author warns against unbelief and disobedience, using the example of the Israelites who failed to enter the Promised Land. It serves as a transition, urging the audience to heed the lessons from Israel's history.

while the promise of entering His rest still stands
The "rest" refers to the spiritual rest offered by God, symbolized by the Promised Land in the Old Testament. This promise remains available, indicating that God's offer of salvation and eternal rest is still open. The concept of rest is rooted in the Sabbath rest of Genesis 2:2 and is fulfilled in Christ, who offers rest for the soul (Matthew 11:28-30).

let us be careful
This phrase is a call to vigilance and self-examination. The original Greek implies a sense of fear or reverence, suggesting that believers should take seriously the possibility of missing out on God's rest. It echoes the exhortation in Philippians 2:12 to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling."

that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it
The warning is communal, addressing the entire faith community. The phrase "fallen short" suggests failing to reach a goal, similar to the Israelites who fell short of entering Canaan due to unbelief (Numbers 14:22-23). It underscores the importance of faith and obedience in the Christian journey, as emphasized in Hebrews 11, the "faith chapter."

For we also received the good news just as they did;
This phrase highlights the continuity of God's message across different eras. The "good news" refers to the gospel, the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. In the context of Hebrews, the author is drawing a parallel between the recipients of the letter and the Israelites in the wilderness. The Israelites received the "good news" of God's promise of rest in the Promised Land. This connection emphasizes that the message of salvation and rest has been consistent throughout biblical history. The "we" refers to the early Christian community, indicating that they, like the Israelites, have received God's promises. This continuity underscores the faithfulness of God in delivering His message across generations.

but the message they heard was of no value to them,
The Israelites heard God's promises but failed to benefit from them due to their lack of faith. This serves as a warning to the readers of Hebrews about the dangers of unbelief. The historical context here is the Israelites' journey from Egypt to Canaan, where despite witnessing God's miracles, many did not trust in His promises. This phrase underscores the importance of not just hearing God's word but responding to it with faith. The message was "of no value" because it was not mixed with faith, highlighting the necessity of an active, trusting response to God's word.

since they did not share the faith of those who comprehended it.
This phrase points to the critical role of faith in receiving God's promises. The Israelites who failed to enter the Promised Land did not "share the faith" of those like Joshua and Caleb, who trusted in God's promise despite the challenges. This distinction between those who believed and those who did not is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing that faith is the key to experiencing God's rest and blessings. The reference to "those who comprehended it" suggests an understanding that goes beyond intellectual assent to a deep, trusting belief in God's promises. This concept is echoed in other parts of the New Testament, such as in James 2:17, which states that faith without works is dead, indicating that true faith results in action and obedience.

Now we who have believed enter that rest.
This phrase emphasizes the present reality for believers who have faith in Jesus Christ. The "rest" refers to the spiritual rest and peace found in salvation, echoing the rest God promised to the Israelites in the Promised Land. This rest is a type of the eternal rest believers will experience in heaven. The concept of rest is rooted in the Sabbath rest God instituted at creation (Genesis 2:2-3) and is fulfilled in Christ, who offers rest for the soul (Matthew 11:28-30). The present tense "enter" indicates an ongoing process, suggesting that believers begin to experience this rest now, even as they anticipate its fullness in the future.

As for the others, it is just as God has said:
This phrase introduces a contrast between believers and those who do not enter God's rest due to unbelief. The "others" refers to the Israelites who, despite witnessing God's miracles, failed to trust Him and thus were denied entry into the Promised Land (Numbers 14:22-23). This serves as a warning to the readers of Hebrews, urging them to remain faithful and not harden their hearts. The author of Hebrews frequently uses Old Testament examples to illustrate spiritual truths, reinforcing the continuity of God's message throughout Scripture.

“So I swore on oath in My anger, ‘They shall never enter My rest.’”
This quotation is from Psalm 95:11, which reflects God's response to the Israelites' rebellion in the wilderness. God's oath underscores the seriousness of unbelief and disobedience. The use of "My rest" indicates that the rest is God's own, a divine gift that He offers to His people. The historical context of this oath is the Israelites' refusal to trust God at Kadesh Barnea, leading to their 40 years of wandering (Deuteronomy 1:34-35). This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of rejecting God's promises.

And yet His works have been finished since the foundation of the world.
This phrase highlights the completed nature of God's creative work, referencing Genesis 2:2, where God rested on the seventh day. Theologically, it suggests that God's plan for rest was established from the beginning of creation. This rest is not due to weariness but signifies the completion and perfection of His work. The author of Hebrews uses this to illustrate that God's rest is available and has been part of His divine purpose from the start. It also points to the sufficiency of Christ's redemptive work, which believers enter into by faith, paralleling the finished work of creation.

For somewhere He has spoken about the seventh day in this manner:
This phrase refers to the scriptural account of creation found in Genesis 2:2, where God completes His work and rests on the seventh day. The author of Hebrews uses this reference to emphasize the importance of rest, both in the physical sense and as a spiritual metaphor. The "somewhere" indicates the author's assumption that the audience is familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures, which were commonly known among Jewish and early Christian communities. This reflects the oral tradition and memorization of scripture prevalent in the culture at the time.

“And on the seventh day God rested from all His works.”
This direct quote from Genesis 2:2 highlights the completion and perfection of God's creation. The concept of rest here is not due to fatigue but signifies the cessation of creative activity, symbolizing satisfaction and fulfillment. In the broader context of Hebrews, this rest is a type of the spiritual rest believers enter through faith in Christ. It also connects to the Sabbath commandment in Exodus 20:8-11, where the Israelites are instructed to rest on the seventh day, mirroring God's rest. This rest is a foreshadowing of the eternal rest promised to believers, as discussed in Hebrews 4:9-11, and serves as a type of the ultimate rest found in Jesus Christ, who offers rest for the soul (Matthew 11:28-30).

And again, as He says in the passage above:
This phrase indicates a repetition or reinforcement of a previously mentioned idea. The author of Hebrews often uses repetition to emphasize the importance of the message. The "passage above" refers to earlier verses in Hebrews, specifically Hebrews 3:11, where the author quotes Psalm 95:11. This Psalm is a reflection on the Israelites' disobedience during their wilderness journey, highlighting the consequences of unbelief and disobedience. The use of "again" suggests the continuity and consistency of God's message throughout Scripture.

“They shall never enter My rest.”
This quote is a direct reference to Psalm 95:11, where God declares that the disobedient Israelites would not enter His rest due to their lack of faith and rebellion. In the historical context, "My rest" initially referred to the Promised Land, a place of peace and fulfillment for the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. However, the author of Hebrews expands this concept to a spiritual rest, symbolizing eternal salvation and peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ. This rest is a type of the ultimate rest believers find in Christ, who fulfills the promises of God. The warning serves as a reminder of the consequences of unbelief and the importance of faithfulness to God’s word. The phrase underscores the seriousness of God's judgment and the necessity of obedience to enter into His rest, drawing a parallel between the Israelites' experience and the spiritual journey of believers.

Since, then, it remains for some to enter His rest,
This phrase suggests the ongoing availability of God's rest, a concept rooted in the creation narrative where God rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2). The "rest" here is both a present spiritual reality and a future promise, symbolizing salvation and eternal life. The idea of rest is also linked to the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, which was a type of the ultimate rest believers find in Christ. The use of "remains" indicates that the promise of entering God's rest is still open, emphasizing God's enduring grace and the opportunity for salvation.

and since those who formerly heard the good news did not enter because of their disobedience,
This part references the Israelites who, despite hearing God's promises, failed to enter the Promised Land due to unbelief and disobedience (Numbers 14:22-23). The "good news" they heard was the promise of entering a land flowing with milk and honey, which parallels the gospel message of salvation through Christ. Their failure serves as a warning and a lesson for contemporary believers about the consequences of unbelief and disobedience. This historical context underscores the importance of faith and obedience in the Christian life, as echoed in other scriptures like Psalm 95:7-11, which is also cited earlier in Hebrews 3:7-11.

God again designated a certain day as “Today,”
This phrase emphasizes the immediacy and urgency of God's call. The concept of "Today" is significant in biblical theology, representing the present moment of opportunity for repentance and faith. It reflects God's ongoing invitation to enter His rest, as seen in the context of Hebrews 3 and 4. The use of "again" suggests a repeated offer, highlighting God's patience and desire for people to respond to His call.

when a long time later He spoke through David
This refers to the period between the Israelites' wilderness journey and the time of King David, which spans several centuries. David, as a prophet and king, is a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate King and Savior. The reference to David underscores the continuity of God's message throughout history and the enduring relevance of His word. It also connects the Psalms, particularly Psalm 95, to the New Testament audience, showing the timeless nature of God's call.

as was just stated:
This phrase indicates that the author of Hebrews is reiterating a previously mentioned point, emphasizing its importance. The repetition serves to reinforce the message and ensure that the audience understands the gravity of the exhortation. It also reflects a common teaching method in Scripture, where key truths are repeated for emphasis and clarity.

“Today, if you hear His voice,
This part of the verse is a direct quotation from Psalm 95:7-8, which is a call to listen and respond to God's voice. Hearing God's voice implies not just auditory reception but an obedient response. In the biblical context, hearing is often synonymous with obeying. This call is relevant to the original audience of Hebrews, who were facing the temptation to turn away from their faith, and it remains relevant to believers today.

do not harden your hearts.”
The hardening of the heart is a recurring theme in Scripture, often associated with rebellion and unbelief. In the wilderness, the Israelites hardened their hearts against God despite witnessing His miracles, leading to their exclusion from the Promised Land. This serves as a warning to the readers of Hebrews and to all believers to remain receptive and obedient to God's voice. The heart, in biblical terms, represents the center of one's being, including mind, will, and emotions. A hardened heart is resistant to God's influence and guidance, which can lead to spiritual downfall.

For if Joshua had given them rest
Joshua, the successor of Moses, led the Israelites into the Promised Land, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham. However, the "rest" Joshua provided was primarily physical and temporary, involving the conquest and settlement of Canaan. This rest was not the ultimate spiritual rest that God intended for His people. The historical context shows that despite entering the land, the Israelites continued to struggle with disobedience and idolatry, indicating that the rest was incomplete. This phrase suggests that Joshua's leadership, while significant, was a type pointing to a greater rest to be fulfilled in Christ, who offers spiritual rest and eternal salvation.

God would not have spoken later
This part of the verse refers to the continued revelation and promises of God beyond the time of Joshua. The mention of "later" implies that God's plan for rest was not fully realized in the Old Testament period. The Psalms, particularly Psalm 95, are often cited as evidence that God continued to speak about a future rest, indicating that the rest Joshua provided was not the final fulfillment. This ongoing revelation underscores the progressive nature of God's redemptive plan, which unfolds throughout Scripture and culminates in the New Testament.

about another day
The "another day" signifies a future time when true rest would be available. This points to the eschatological rest found in Jesus Christ, who invites believers to enter into His rest through faith. The concept of "another day" also connects to the Sabbath rest, which serves as a shadow of the rest believers find in Christ. This future rest is both a present reality for believers who trust in Christ and a future hope of eternal rest in the presence of God. Theologically, it emphasizes the already-but-not-yet aspect of God's kingdom, where believers experience rest now but await its full consummation in the age to come.

There remains, then,
This phrase indicates a continuation or conclusion from previous arguments. The author of Hebrews has been discussing the concept of rest, drawing from the Old Testament narrative of the Israelites and their journey to the Promised Land. The use of "remains" suggests that this rest is still available and has not been fully realized by the people of God. It implies a promise that is ongoing and accessible.

a Sabbath rest
The term "Sabbath rest" is unique and signifies more than just a physical rest. It draws from the creation account in Genesis 2:2-3, where God rested on the seventh day, setting a pattern for humanity. This rest is not merely about ceasing from work but entering into a state of spiritual peace and fulfillment. It also connects to the Mosaic Law, where the Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel (Exodus 31:16-17). Theologically, it points to a deeper, eschatological rest that believers anticipate, a rest that is fulfilled in Christ, who offers rest for the soul (Matthew 11:28-30).

for the people of God.
This phrase identifies the recipients of the Sabbath rest. In the context of Hebrews, "the people of God" refers to those who have faith in Jesus Christ, both Jews and Gentiles, who are grafted into the spiritual lineage of Abraham (Galatians 3:7-9). Historically, the people of God were the Israelites, but the New Covenant expands this to include all who believe in Christ. This rest is a promise for the community of believers, emphasizing the unity and inclusivity of God's promise. It also serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, highlighting the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises.

For whoever enters God’s rest
This phrase refers to the spiritual rest that believers enter through faith in Jesus Christ. It echoes the promise of rest given to the Israelites in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 12:9-10). However, the rest mentioned here is not merely physical or geographical but spiritual and eternal. It signifies a cessation from striving for salvation through works, aligning with the New Testament teaching of salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). This rest is a foretaste of the eternal rest believers will experience in heaven (Revelation 14:13).

also rests from his own work
This part of the verse emphasizes the cessation of human effort in achieving righteousness. In the cultural context of the Jewish audience, this would contrast with the works-based righteousness of the Mosaic Law. Theologically, it underscores the doctrine of justification by faith, where believers cease from their own works as a means of earning salvation and instead rely on the finished work of Christ on the cross (Romans 4:5). This rest is a spiritual state of peace and assurance in one's relationship with God.

just as God did from His
This phrase draws a parallel between the believer's rest and God's rest after creation. In Genesis 2:2, God rested on the seventh day, not because He was weary, but to set a pattern for humanity and to signify the completion of His creative work. This rest is a type of the ultimate rest believers find in Christ. It also connects to the Sabbath rest, which was a shadow of the rest to come in Christ (Colossians 2:16-17). Theologically, it points to the sufficiency and completeness of God's work, mirrored in the believer's rest in the sufficiency of Christ's atoning sacrifice.

Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest,
This phrase calls for diligence and intentionality in pursuing the spiritual rest promised by God. The "rest" refers to the spiritual peace and eternal salvation found in Christ, echoing the rest God took after creation (Genesis 2:2) and the rest promised to the Israelites in the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 12:9-10). The exhortation to "make every effort" underscores the necessity of active faith and perseverance, aligning with Paul's encouragement to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12). This rest is not merely physical but a deeper, spiritual rest that comes from faith in Christ, contrasting with the Israelites' failure to enter the Promised Land due to unbelief (Numbers 14:22-23).

so that no one will fall
The warning here is against apostasy and spiritual failure. The term "fall" suggests a spiritual downfall or missing out on God's promises, similar to the Israelites who fell in the wilderness due to their lack of faith (1 Corinthians 10:5). This serves as a cautionary reminder of the consequences of disobedience and unbelief. The writer of Hebrews emphasizes the importance of community and mutual encouragement to prevent such a fall, as seen in Hebrews 3:13, where believers are urged to encourage one another daily.

by following the same pattern of disobedience.
This phrase refers to the historical disobedience of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. Their pattern of disobedience included grumbling, idolatry, and a lack of trust in God's promises (Exodus 32:1-6; Numbers 14:1-4). The "pattern" implies a repeated behavior that leads to spiritual failure. The author of Hebrews uses this historical example to warn contemporary believers against similar unbelief and rebellion. The call is to learn from the past and to live in obedience and faith, as seen in the exhortation to "hold firmly to the faith we profess" (Hebrews 4:14). This serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the dangers of hardening one's heart against God's voice (Hebrews 3:7-8).

For the word of God is living and active.
The phrase emphasizes the dynamic and powerful nature of God's word. Unlike static texts, the word of God is described as "living," indicating its ongoing relevance and ability to impact lives. The term "active" suggests that it is effective and accomplishes its purpose (Isaiah 55:11). The living nature of the word is seen in its ability to transform individuals, as evidenced in the lives of biblical figures like David and Paul. Historically, the word of God has been a catalyst for change, revival, and reformation throughout church history.

Sharper than any double-edged sword,
The imagery of a double-edged sword conveys the precision and penetrating power of God's word. In ancient times, a double-edged sword was a formidable weapon, capable of cutting in both directions. This metaphor highlights the word's ability to discern and penetrate deeply into the human condition. The sword imagery is also found in Ephesians 6:17, where the word of God is described as the "sword of the Spirit," indicating its role in spiritual warfare and defense against falsehood.

it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow.
This phrase illustrates the depth of the word's penetration, reaching the innermost parts of a person. The distinction between "soul and spirit" suggests the word's ability to discern between the natural and spiritual aspects of human existence. "Joints and marrow" further emphasizes the thoroughness of this penetration, as these are the deepest parts of the physical body. The word's ability to reach such depths signifies its role in revealing truths about human nature and God's will.

It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
The word of God acts as a judge, evaluating the innermost thoughts and motives of individuals. This function aligns with the biblical theme of God as the ultimate judge (Psalm 139:23-24). The heart, in biblical terms, represents the center of human will and emotion. By judging the heart, the word exposes hidden motives and brings them into alignment with God's standards. This process is essential for spiritual growth and sanctification, as believers are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16).

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight;
This phrase emphasizes God's omniscience, a central tenet in Christian theology. The idea that nothing is hidden from God is echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 139:1-4, where David acknowledges that God knows his every thought and action. This understanding of God's all-seeing nature serves as both a comfort and a warning, reminding believers of God's intimate knowledge of their lives. Historically, this concept would have been particularly poignant for early Christians facing persecution, as it reassured them that God was aware of their struggles and faithfulness.

everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him
The imagery of being "uncovered and exposed" suggests a complete vulnerability before God. This can be likened to the sacrificial system in the Old Testament, where offerings were laid bare before God as a sign of repentance and devotion. The Greek word used here for "exposed" can also imply being laid bare or naked, which in the cultural context of the time, indicated total transparency and honesty. This phrase underscores the idea that God sees beyond outward appearances and into the true nature of the heart, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:7.

to whom we must give account.
This phrase introduces the concept of divine judgment and accountability. The notion of giving an account is consistent with the teachings of Jesus, such as in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where servants are called to account for their stewardship. It reflects the belief that all individuals will stand before God to answer for their lives, a theme also found in Romans 14:12. This accountability is not just for actions but also for thoughts and intentions, reinforcing the call to live a life of integrity and faithfulness.

Therefore, since we have a great high priest
The term "high priest" is deeply rooted in the Jewish tradition, where the high priest served as the mediator between God and the people, offering sacrifices for sins. In the context of Hebrews, Jesus is presented as the ultimate high priest, surpassing the Levitical priesthood. This phrase emphasizes His superiority and unique role in mediating the new covenant. The use of "great" underscores His unparalleled status, indicating that He is not just another priest but the supreme one.

who has passed through the heavens
This phrase highlights Jesus' ascension and His exalted position at the right hand of God. Unlike earthly high priests who entered the Holy of Holies in the temple, Jesus has entered the true heavenly sanctuary. This passing through the heavens signifies His divine authority and the completion of His redemptive work. It also connects to the Jewish understanding of multiple heavens, with Jesus having passed through all to reach the presence of God.

Jesus the Son of God
Identifying Jesus as the Son of God affirms His divine nature and eternal relationship with the Father. This title is central to Christian belief, emphasizing both His divinity and His role in the Trinity. It also connects to Old Testament prophecies and typologies, such as Psalm 2:7, which speaks of the Messiah as God's Son. This declaration reinforces His authority and the legitimacy of His priesthood.

let us hold firmly to what we profess
This exhortation calls believers to remain steadfast in their faith and confession of Jesus as Lord. The original audience of Hebrews faced persecution and temptation to revert to Judaism, so this encouragement was crucial. Holding firmly implies an active, ongoing commitment to the faith, despite challenges. It echoes earlier themes in Hebrews, such as the importance of perseverance and faithfulness, and aligns with other New Testament teachings on enduring in faith, like those found in 1 Corinthians 15:58.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses
The role of the high priest in ancient Israel was to act as a mediator between God and the people, offering sacrifices for sins. In the context of Hebrews, Jesus is presented as the ultimate High Priest. Unlike the Levitical priests, who were often seen as distant and unable to fully understand the struggles of the people, Jesus is portrayed as one who can sympathize with human frailty. This is significant because it emphasizes His humanity and His ability to relate to the human condition. The Greek word for "sympathize" (sympatheo) implies a deep, compassionate understanding, suggesting that Jesus shares in our experiences and emotions.

but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are
This phrase underscores the completeness of Jesus' human experience. The Gospels record instances of Jesus being tempted, most notably in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13). These temptations were real and comprehensive, covering physical needs, pride, and power. The phrase "in every way" suggests that Jesus faced the full spectrum of human temptation, making Him fully equipped to understand and aid those who are tempted. This also fulfills the typology of Jesus as the second Adam, who, unlike the first Adam, resisted temptation and remained obedient to God.

yet was without sin
Despite facing every form of temptation, Jesus remained sinless. This is a critical aspect of His role as the perfect High Priest and the spotless Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). His sinlessness is essential for His sacrificial death to be effective for atonement. The sinlessness of Jesus is affirmed throughout the New Testament (2 Corinthians 5:21, 1 Peter 2:22, 1 John 3:5). This aspect of His character sets Him apart from all other high priests and qualifies Him uniquely to intercede on behalf of humanity.

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence
This phrase encourages believers to come boldly before God, emphasizing the accessibility of God through Jesus Christ. The "throne of grace" signifies God's sovereign authority combined with His willingness to bestow grace. In the context of the Old Testament, the throne of God was often associated with judgment, as seen in Isaiah 6:1-5. However, through Christ's atoning work, believers are invited to approach with confidence, a concept echoed in Ephesians 3:12, where Paul speaks of having boldness and access through faith in Christ. The confidence mentioned here is not arrogance but a trust in the completed work of Jesus, who serves as our High Priest, as elaborated in Hebrews 4:14-15.

so that we may receive mercy
Mercy here refers to God's compassion and forgiveness towards humanity. In the cultural context of the time, mercy was often sought from rulers or judges, but here it is freely given by God. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who often emphasized God's mercy, as seen in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). The concept of receiving mercy is also tied to the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies to atone for the people's sins, a role now fulfilled by Christ (Hebrews 9:11-12).

and find grace
Grace is the unmerited favor of God, a central theme in the New Testament. It is through grace that believers are saved, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9. The idea of finding grace suggests an active seeking and receiving, which is made possible through Jesus' sacrifice. This grace empowers believers to live godly lives, as seen in Titus 2:11-12. Theologically, grace is a gift that transforms and sustains, providing strength and guidance in the believer's life.

to help us in our time of need
This phrase acknowledges the human condition of dependency on God. The "time of need" can refer to any situation where divine assistance is required, whether spiritual, emotional, or physical. Historically, the early Christian community faced persecution and hardship, making this promise of divine help particularly comforting. The assurance of God's help is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in Psalm 46:1, which describes God as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. This promise encourages believers to rely on God's provision and timing, trusting in His perfect will.