NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
27 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Hebrews 4:16 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
24 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
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.
26 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
31 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
So let's walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.
22 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
27 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
27 words
KJV
24 words
ESV
26 words
NLT
31 words
MSG
22 words
NASB
27 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Hebrews 4:16?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Hebrews 4:16 in 6 translations: New International Version, King James Version, English Standard Version, New Living Translation, The Message, New American Standard Bible. Each uses a different translation philosophy — from word-for-word (KJV, ESV, NASB) to thought-for-thought (NIV, NLT) to paraphrase (MSG).
Which translation of Hebrews 4:16 is best?
No single translation is "best" — it depends on your purpose. For deep study, use the ESV or NASB (word-for-word). For devotional reading, the NIV balances accuracy and readability. The NLT and MSG are excellent for understanding the general meaning in modern English. Comparing multiple translations helps grasp the full richness of the text.
What is the difference between literal and dynamic Bible translations?
Literal (formal equivalence) translations like KJV, ESV, and NASB translate word-for-word from the original Hebrew/Greek. Dynamic equivalence translations like NIV and NLT translate thought-for-thought for clarity. The MSG is a paraphrase that captures the spirit in contemporary language. Each approach has strengths — that's why comparing translations is valuable.
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