Hebrews 13: Living Out Our Faith
Let brotherly love continue.
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.
We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.
For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp.
Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.
Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.
For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.
But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner.
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.
Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you.
Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.
Grace be with you all. Amen. Written to the Hebrews from Italy by Timothy.
Hebrews 13 offers practical guidance for Christian living, serving as a powerful conclusion to the book's central argument: the superiority of the new covenant in Jesus Christ. Building upon the theological foundation laid in the previous chapters, this chapter provides a series of exhortations designed to empower believers to live out their faith in tangible ways. It's a call to action, urging us to embrace love, purity, and contentment, while remaining steadfast in our commitment to Christ.
Brotherly Love and Hospitality (Hebrews 13:1-3)
The chapter begins with a fundamental principle: "Let brotherly love continue" (Hebrews 13:1). This isn't just a suggestion; it's a command to actively cultivate and maintain genuine affection for fellow believers. We are called to be connected to a loving fellowship, supporting and encouraging one another on our spiritual journeys. Biblical love is others-focused, prompting us to shift our attention from our own problems to the well-being of those around us.
The author extends this concept to include hospitality, encouraging readers to show kindness to strangers (Hebrews 13:2). He reminds us that sometimes, God's answers to prayer come from unexpected sources, even through those we don't know. The Greek word translated "angels" can also mean "messengers," suggesting that hospitality opens the door to divine appointments and blessings. Whether the messenger is supernatural or simply a fellow human being, we should be open to receiving God's provision through them.
Furthermore, we are called to remember and care for those who are suffering, particularly fellow believers who are persecuted or imprisoned (Hebrews 13:3). In a world often consumed by personal concerns, we must not overlook the plight of those who are facing hardship. Many Christians around the globe endure persecution far beyond anything we experience in the Western world, and we are called to stand in solidarity with them.
Marriage and Money (Hebrews 13:4-6)
The author then addresses two critical areas of life: marriage and finances. These are often sources of friction and frustration, but they also present opportunities for believers to demonstrate their commitment to God's principles.
Marriage, in particular, is to be held in honor among all (Hebrews 13:4). This means respecting and celebrating the institution of marriage between one man and one woman as God's creation order. Maintaining godly sexual morality and fidelity within marriage is essential, honoring the marriage bed and reflecting God's design for intimacy.
Regarding finances, believers are urged to be free from the love of money (Hebrews 13:5). While money itself is not inherently evil, the love of it can lead to greed, covetousness, and discontentment. Managing money is a theological issue, requiring us to trust in God's provision and promises. We are to be content with what we have, knowing that God has promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). This assurance allows us to boldly declare, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6). A Christian who fears the Lord and not people is truly free.
Remembering Leaders and Sound Doctrine (Hebrews 13:7-9)
The writer shifts his focus to spiritual leadership and the importance of sound doctrine. Believers are encouraged to remember their leaders, those who taught them the Word of God, and to imitate their faith (Hebrews 13:7). It's important to honor those who have influenced us spiritually and to keep their legacy alive.
However, while remembering our leaders, we must ultimately fix our eyes on Jesus Christ, who is "the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). People may change, but Jesus remains constant. Therefore, we must be careful not to be led astray by strange teachings that distract us from growing in God's grace (Hebrews 13:9). The constancy of Christ and the gospel is a vital anchor in a world of shifting values and beliefs.
Identifying with Christ (Hebrews 13:10-14)
Drawing a parallel between the Old Testament sacrificial system and the sacrifice of Jesus, the author highlights the inadequacy of the old covenant. Just as the bodies of sacrificial animals were burned outside the camp (Hebrews 13:11), Jesus suffered outside the gate of Jerusalem (Hebrews 13:12). His blood was shed outside, not inside the temple, signifying a new and better covenant.
Therefore, we are called to "go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured" (Hebrews 13:13). This means identifying with Christ, even if it means enduring ridicule and reproach from the world, including the religious establishment. Being a serious Christian will inevitably involve some level of opposition, but we can take heart knowing that we are in good company.
This world is not our home; we are seeking a city that is to come (Hebrews 13:14). As followers of Jesus, we must decisively leave behind anything that draws us away from him and clearly align ourselves as kingdom disciples with an eternal focus. This perspective enables us to navigate the ups and downs of life with grace and purpose.
Sacrifices of Praise and Good Deeds (Hebrews 13:15-16)
The author encourages us to offer sacrifices of praise to God continually, "that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name" (Hebrews 13:15). Boldly identify yourself as a disciple of Jesus. Let your words and actions reflect your faith. Ask yourself, "If I was accused of being a Christian, would there be sufficient evidence to convict me?"
But our sacrifices should not be limited to words; we must also make sacrifices with our lives. "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God" (Hebrews 13:16). Reaching out to benefit others is an act of worship, demonstrating our love for God and our commitment to his kingdom.
Obeying Leaders and Praying for Them (Hebrews 13:17-19)
The chapter emphasizes the importance of respecting and obeying church leaders (when they are following Scripture) and praying for them (Hebrews 13:17). Leaders are responsible to God to watch over the flock, and our cooperation allows them to do their work with joy. The author also humbly requests prayer for himself, asking that his actions be honorable and his conscience clear (Hebrews 13:18).
Benediction and Final Greetings (Hebrews 13:20-25)
The author concludes with a powerful benediction, praying that God, who brought our Lord Jesus from the dead, would equip his readers "with everything good for doing his will" (Hebrews 13:20-21). The resurrection verifies the truth of Christianity and sets it apart from all other religions. Through Jesus Christ, God will give us the spiritual tools we need to please him. Therefore, we must not give up, but continue to mature in the faith, trusting that it will all be worth it in the end.
The author ends his message with news of Timothy, greetings of farewell, and a blessing of grace (Hebrews 13:22-25). This final chapter of Hebrews is a powerful reminder that our faith is not just a set of beliefs, but a way of life. By embracing love, purity, contentment, and obedience, we can live out our faith in tangible ways, bringing glory to God and blessing to those around us.
Let brotherly love continue.
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.
We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.
For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp.
Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.
Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.
For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.
But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner.
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.
Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you.
Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.
Grace be with you all. Amen. Written to the Hebrews from Italy by Timothy.
Hebrews 13 offers practical guidance for Christian living, serving as a powerful conclusion to the book's central argument: the superiority of the new covenant in Jesus Christ. Building upon the theological foundation laid in the previous chapters, this chapter provides a series of exhortations designed to empower believers to live out their faith in tangible ways. It's a call to action, urging us to embrace love, purity, and contentment, while remaining steadfast in our commitment to Christ.
Brotherly Love and Hospitality (Hebrews 13:1-3)
The chapter begins with a fundamental principle: "Let brotherly love continue" (Hebrews 13:1). This isn't just a suggestion; it's a command to actively cultivate and maintain genuine affection for fellow believers. We are called to be connected to a loving fellowship, supporting and encouraging one another on our spiritual journeys. Biblical love is others-focused, prompting us to shift our attention from our own problems to the well-being of those around us.
The author extends this concept to include hospitality, encouraging readers to show kindness to strangers (Hebrews 13:2). He reminds us that sometimes, God's answers to prayer come from unexpected sources, even through those we don't know. The Greek word translated "angels" can also mean "messengers," suggesting that hospitality opens the door to divine appointments and blessings. Whether the messenger is supernatural or simply a fellow human being, we should be open to receiving God's provision through them.
Furthermore, we are called to remember and care for those who are suffering, particularly fellow believers who are persecuted or imprisoned (Hebrews 13:3). In a world often consumed by personal concerns, we must not overlook the plight of those who are facing hardship. Many Christians around the globe endure persecution far beyond anything we experience in the Western world, and we are called to stand in solidarity with them.
Marriage and Money (Hebrews 13:4-6)
The author then addresses two critical areas of life: marriage and finances. These are often sources of friction and frustration, but they also present opportunities for believers to demonstrate their commitment to God's principles.
Marriage, in particular, is to be held in honor among all (Hebrews 13:4). This means respecting and celebrating the institution of marriage between one man and one woman as God's creation order. Maintaining godly sexual morality and fidelity within marriage is essential, honoring the marriage bed and reflecting God's design for intimacy.
Regarding finances, believers are urged to be free from the love of money (Hebrews 13:5). While money itself is not inherently evil, the love of it can lead to greed, covetousness, and discontentment. Managing money is a theological issue, requiring us to trust in God's provision and promises. We are to be content with what we have, knowing that God has promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). This assurance allows us to boldly declare, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Hebrews 13:6). A Christian who fears the Lord and not people is truly free.
Remembering Leaders and Sound Doctrine (Hebrews 13:7-9)
The writer shifts his focus to spiritual leadership and the importance of sound doctrine. Believers are encouraged to remember their leaders, those who taught them the Word of God, and to imitate their faith (Hebrews 13:7). It's important to honor those who have influenced us spiritually and to keep their legacy alive.
However, while remembering our leaders, we must ultimately fix our eyes on Jesus Christ, who is "the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). People may change, but Jesus remains constant. Therefore, we must be careful not to be led astray by strange teachings that distract us from growing in God's grace (Hebrews 13:9). The constancy of Christ and the gospel is a vital anchor in a world of shifting values and beliefs.
Identifying with Christ (Hebrews 13:10-14)
Drawing a parallel between the Old Testament sacrificial system and the sacrifice of Jesus, the author highlights the inadequacy of the old covenant. Just as the bodies of sacrificial animals were burned outside the camp (Hebrews 13:11), Jesus suffered outside the gate of Jerusalem (Hebrews 13:12). His blood was shed outside, not inside the temple, signifying a new and better covenant.
Therefore, we are called to "go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured" (Hebrews 13:13). This means identifying with Christ, even if it means enduring ridicule and reproach from the world, including the religious establishment. Being a serious Christian will inevitably involve some level of opposition, but we can take heart knowing that we are in good company.
This world is not our home; we are seeking a city that is to come (Hebrews 13:14). As followers of Jesus, we must decisively leave behind anything that draws us away from him and clearly align ourselves as kingdom disciples with an eternal focus. This perspective enables us to navigate the ups and downs of life with grace and purpose.
Sacrifices of Praise and Good Deeds (Hebrews 13:15-16)
The author encourages us to offer sacrifices of praise to God continually, "that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name" (Hebrews 13:15). Boldly identify yourself as a disciple of Jesus. Let your words and actions reflect your faith. Ask yourself, "If I was accused of being a Christian, would there be sufficient evidence to convict me?"
But our sacrifices should not be limited to words; we must also make sacrifices with our lives. "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God" (Hebrews 13:16). Reaching out to benefit others is an act of worship, demonstrating our love for God and our commitment to his kingdom.
Obeying Leaders and Praying for Them (Hebrews 13:17-19)
The chapter emphasizes the importance of respecting and obeying church leaders (when they are following Scripture) and praying for them (Hebrews 13:17). Leaders are responsible to God to watch over the flock, and our cooperation allows them to do their work with joy. The author also humbly requests prayer for himself, asking that his actions be honorable and his conscience clear (Hebrews 13:18).
Benediction and Final Greetings (Hebrews 13:20-25)
The author concludes with a powerful benediction, praying that God, who brought our Lord Jesus from the dead, would equip his readers "with everything good for doing his will" (Hebrews 13:20-21). The resurrection verifies the truth of Christianity and sets it apart from all other religions. Through Jesus Christ, God will give us the spiritual tools we need to please him. Therefore, we must not give up, but continue to mature in the faith, trusting that it will all be worth it in the end.
The author ends his message with news of Timothy, greetings of farewell, and a blessing of grace (Hebrews 13:22-25). This final chapter of Hebrews is a powerful reminder that our faith is not just a set of beliefs, but a way of life. By embracing love, purity, contentment, and obedience, we can live out our faith in tangible ways, bringing glory to God and blessing to those around us.