For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

HEBREWS 3:14KJV
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Hebrews 3:14 (KJV)

What does Hebrews 3:14 mean?

Hebrews 3:14 says that believers share in what Christ offers if they keep holding firmly to their original confidence in Him all the way to the end. The verse connects being joined with Christ to a steady, ongoing trust that does not give up.

The writer of Hebrews is encouraging a group of Jewish Christians who are facing pressure and discouragement. The verse stresses that being "partakers of Christ" is not just about a one-time decision, but about continuing in faith. The focus is on perseverance—holding on to the trust and hope they had at the beginning, no matter what challenges come.

The Greek behind Hebrews 3:14

  • "partakers" (μέτοχοι, metochoi): This word means "sharers" or "partners." It often describes people who have a real, active share in something, not just a distant connection. Here, it highlights a close participation with Christ.
  • "confidence" (ὑπόστασις, hypostasis): In this context, it refers to a firm foundation or assurance. The Greek carries the sense of something solid and reliable, not just a vague hope.
  • "stedfast" (βέβαιος, bebaios): This word means firm, secure, or unwavering. It emphasizes the need for a steady, lasting commitment, not something that wavers or fades over time.

Why Hebrews 3:14 matters

  • Hebrews 3:14 clarifies that sharing in Christ is closely tied to perseverance, not just a single moment of faith or belief.
  • The verse highlights the importance of holding on to the same confidence believers had when they first trusted Christ, showing that faith is meant to endure.
  • This verse connects to the wider message of Hebrews, which warns against drifting away and encourages readers to remain faithful, especially in hard times.

Where else these words appear

“if” Greek G4007 · used in 3 verses

  • Hebrews 3:6 But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.
  • Hebrews 6:3 And this will we do, if God permit.

“confidence” Greek G5287 · used in 5 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 9:4 Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we(that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:17 That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.
  • Hebrews 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

“partakers” Greek G3353 · used in 6 verses

  • Luke 5:7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.
  • Hebrews 1:9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.
  • Hebrews 6:4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

“stedfast” Greek G949 · used in 9 verses

  • Romans 4:16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,
  • Hebrews 2:2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;
  • Hebrews 9:17 For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.