King James Version

What Does Hebrews 4:6 Mean?

Hebrews 4:6 in the King James Version says “Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein , and they to whom it was first preached entered not in becau...” — study this verse from Hebrews chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Hebrews 4:6 · KJV

Context

4

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

5

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

6

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

7

Again, 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.

8

For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. Jesus: that is, Joshua

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The logic: since rest remains available, and the original generation failed to enter through disobedience, the promise extends to subsequent generations. The Greek 'apoleleitai' (remains) indicates ongoing availability. Reformed covenant theology sees this as demonstrating the unity of God's redemptive purpose across testaments - the gospel was preached to them (4:2), but only those with faith benefit from it.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This argument would resonate with Jewish Christians who might think salvation was limited to ancient Israel. The author shows God's purpose to bring many into rest continues beyond the original generation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's persistent offer of rest despite human failure demonstrate His grace?
  2. What is the relationship between the 'rest' offered to Israel and the rest offered in Christ?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
ἐπεὶ1 of 15

“Seeing”

G1893

thereupon, i.e., since (of time or cause)

οὖν2 of 15

“therefore”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ἀπολείπεται3 of 15

“it remaineth”

G620

to leave behind (passively, remain); by implication, to forsake

τινὰς4 of 15

“that some”

G5100

some or any person or object

εἰσῆλθον5 of 15

“entered”

G1525

to enter (literally or figuratively)

εἰς6 of 15

“therein”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

αὐτήν7 of 15
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καὶ8 of 15

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οἱ9 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πρότερον10 of 15

“they to whom it was first”

G4386

previously

εὐαγγελισθέντες11 of 15

“preached”

G2097

to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel

οὐκ12 of 15

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

εἰσῆλθον13 of 15

“entered”

G1525

to enter (literally or figuratively)

δι'14 of 15

“because”

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

ἀπείθειαν15 of 15

“of unbelief”

G543

disbelief (obstinate and rebellious)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hebrews 4:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Hebrews 4:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 21:43Hebrews 3:18-19Hebrews 4:2Acts 28:28Matthew 22:9-10Acts 13:46-47

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