New Testament
Hebrews 10:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"This is the covenant I will make with them after those days, says the LORD: I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds."
Compare translations
This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;
What Hebrews 10:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is expressing a promise of a new covenant, which signifies a deeper relationship with His people. Unlike the old covenant, which was based on external laws, this new covenant emphasizes internal transformation. God will place His laws directly in the hearts and minds of His followers, indicating that obedience will come from within rather than from mere external compliance. This reflects a shift from ritualistic practices to a genuine, heartfelt connection with God. The promise highlights the importance of personal faith and the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers. It assures that God desires an intimate relationship where His teachings are naturally integrated into the lives of His people, leading to a life that reflects His will and character.
How to apply Hebrews 10:16 to your life
This verse encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, allowing His teachings to shape their thoughts and actions. By inviting the Holy Spirit to guide us, we can cultivate a life that reflects God's will, leading to genuine obedience and spiritual growth.
Curated for this public verse page. Hebrews Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Andrew Brings Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Hebrews 10:16
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Hebrews 10:16
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Hebrews
- Author
- Author unknown; traditionally attributed to Paul
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Letter and sermon
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Hebrews 10:16 mean by a new covenant?
Hebrews 10:16 refers to a new covenant established by God, which signifies a shift from the old covenant based on external laws to one focused on internal transformation. This new covenant emphasizes a personal relationship with God, where His laws are written on the hearts and minds of believers, allowing for genuine obedience that stems from faith rather than mere compliance with rules.
How does Hebrews 10:16 relate to the role of the Holy Spirit?
In Hebrews 10:16, the promise of God writing His laws in our hearts and minds highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. The Holy Spirit guides and empowers individuals to understand and live out God's teachings, fostering a deeper connection with Him. This internal transformation leads to a life that naturally reflects God's character and will.
What is the significance of God's laws being in our hearts and minds?
The significance of God's laws being in our hearts and minds, as stated in Hebrews 10:16, is that it represents a profound internalization of His teachings. This means that obedience to God is not just about following rules but involves a heartfelt commitment to live according to His will. It encourages believers to cultivate a genuine relationship with God, where His values and principles become an integral part of their daily lives.
How can I apply Hebrews 10:16 in my daily life?
To apply Hebrews 10:16 in your daily life, focus on developing a personal relationship with God through prayer, meditation, and studying His Word. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide you in understanding and living out His teachings. Reflect on how God's laws can shape your thoughts and actions, leading to genuine obedience and spiritual growth that aligns with His will.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.