Hebrews 4:2
For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
For
G2532
καὶ
For
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 20
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
γάρ
G1063
γάρ
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 20
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
εὐηγγελισμένοι
the gospel preached
G2097
εὐηγγελισμένοι
the gospel preached
Strong's:
G2097
Word #:
4 of 20
to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
7 of 20
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 20
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λόγος
the word
G3056
λόγος
the word
Strong's:
G3056
Word #:
11 of 20
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 20
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκείνους
them
G1565
ἐκείνους
them
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
14 of 20
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
15 of 20
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
συγκεκραμένος
being mixed
G4786
συγκεκραμένος
being mixed
Strong's:
G4786
Word #:
16 of 20
to commingle, i.e., (figuratively) to combine or assimilate
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
17 of 20
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πίστει
with faith
G4102
πίστει
with faith
Strong's:
G4102
Word #:
18 of 20
persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
Cross References
1 Thessalonians 2:13For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.Hebrews 11:6But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.Hebrews 3:12Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.Acts 13:46Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.Romans 2:25For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.1 Timothy 4:8For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
Historical Context
This verse explains why an entire generation died in the wilderness despite witnessing miracles. Privilege without faith brings judgment, not salvation.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you mix what you hear from God's Word with genuine faith and obedience?
- What biblical truth have you heard but not yet believed and acted upon?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The gospel was preached 'to us' (Christians) as 'to them' (wilderness generation), showing continuity of God's message. The crucial difference: the word must be 'mixed with faith' (Greek 'synkekerasmenous te pistei'). Hearing alone profits nothing without believing response. Faith is the hand that receives what God offers in His word.