Hebrews 4:11
Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.
Original Language Analysis
σπουδάσωμεν
Let us labour
G4704
σπουδάσωμεν
Let us labour
Strong's:
G4704
Word #:
1 of 17
to use speed, i.e., to make effort, be prompt or earnest
οὖν
therefore
G3767
οὖν
therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 17
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
4 of 17
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
ἐκείνην
that
G1565
ἐκείνην
that
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
5 of 17
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
9 of 17
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτῷ
the same
G846
αὐτῷ
the same
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
12 of 17
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
ὑποδείγματι
example
G5262
ὑποδείγματι
example
Strong's:
G5262
Word #:
14 of 17
an exhibit for imitation or warning (figuratively, specimen, adumbration)
Cross References
Luke 13:24Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.Hebrews 6:11And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:Hebrews 3:12Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.Ephesians 5:6Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.Acts 26:19Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:Matthew 11:12And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.Matthew 7:13Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:Titus 1:16They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.Titus 3:3For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.Colossians 3:6For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
Historical Context
The wilderness generation serves as a perpetual warning. Despite miracles, manna, and God's presence, they died in unbelief. Proximity to blessing without faith brings greater condemnation.
Questions for Reflection
- Are you diligent in pursuing deeper faith and obedience?
- What would it look like for you to fall after the same example of unbelief today?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
'Let us labour therefore' creates a paradox—labor to enter rest. The Greek 'spoudazo' (be diligent, make every effort) indicates urgent striving. This is not works-salvation but diligent pursuit of faith and perseverance. The 'same example of unbelief' warns that privilege without faith leads to judgment. Diligence in faith prevents falling away.