In the final chapter of Hebrews, the author gives a series of exhortations for christian living. The readers were exhorted to continue in their brotherly. In the past they have demonstrated such love one to another (6:10). This love should not be limited to only brethren. They must demonstrate this love to strangers by showing hospitality. Since Christians were traveling to escape persecution and for ministry, it was a needed grace at that time. The author refers to Old Testament incidents to show that this would bring unexpected blessing from God(Gen 18,19). They were also encouraged to remember those who are in prison for their faith. Their needs must not be forgotten. They were also urged take their marriage seriously and remain faithful to one another. The author expresses God's approval of marriage and His blessing upon it (Gen 2:18-25). They were reminded of the price one has to pay for adultery and immorality. It will bring shame, disgrace and distrust upon family as well as to the cause of Christ. The author warns that God will judge them. They were also admonished against greediness. They are to be content with what they have. The basis of contentment is found in the promise of God. "I will never fail you,nor forsake you"(Deut 31:6,8; Josh 1:5). When we have such assurance of care, we can confidently say "God is my helper and I will not be afraid"(Psalm 118:6).These instructions are equally important and applicable in our lives.
The readers are exhorted to remember and follow those who taught them the Word of God(13:7). They probably had died but remember the outcome of their lives and follow their example. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. So be loyal to Him and to the new covenant. Do not be attracted to the ceremonial rules about food or traditions. They are useless. But your spiritual strength comes from God's grace. We have an alter. This is a reference to the sacrifice Christ offered on the cross. The sacrifice of the day of atonement was a type of Christ' death on the cross. On the day of atonement, the bodies of animals were burned outside the camp. Priest were not allowed to eat of the sacrifice offered on the day of atonement. So also Jesus suffered and died outside the city gate. Under the new covenant believers are privileged to partake of the blessings of Christ perfect sacrifice. The writer encourages his readers to go out side the gate bearing the reproach Christ bore(13:13). Christians must be prepared to suffer shame and separation for Christ.
The author introduces a new concept of sacrifices and call upon the readers to offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually(13:15,16). Also they were encouraged to do good and share what they have with those in need. In such sacrifices, God is well pleased. They are to obey their spiritual leaders. Such obedience make it possible for them to fulfill their responsibilities with joy. They are accountable to God. The author requests prayer for himself and others who are with him. He is confident that their prayer will hasten his return. Then added the benediction which is addressed to the God of peace.This peace is the result of new covenant which Christ has established once for all. He is our great shepherd who is able to keep us safe and produce in us that which is pleasing in His sight through the new covenant. This prayer ends with ascribing glory and praise to Jesus Christ(13:21).
The writer ends this epistle with an appeal. He wants his readers to listen willingly his word of exhortation about Christ who is the complete and final revelation of God. He wants his readers to know that Timothy has been set free from prison. Many scholars hold the view that, the mention of Timothy here suggests, perhaps Apostle Paul wrote the epistle of Hebrews. The author expresses the desire that he and Timothy may together visit the readers to whom this letter was addressed. The readers are asked to greet their church leaders and to all fellow believers there. The phrase "Christians from Italy" may suggests that this letter was written to or from there. The author closes this letter by wishing God's grace upon all the readers of this epistle. May God bless you all. Amen
The readers are exhorted to remember and follow those who taught them the Word of God(13:7). They probably had died but remember the outcome of their lives and follow their example. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. So be loyal to Him and to the new covenant. Do not be attracted to the ceremonial rules about food or traditions. They are useless. But your spiritual strength comes from God's grace. We have an alter. This is a reference to the sacrifice Christ offered on the cross. The sacrifice of the day of atonement was a type of Christ' death on the cross. On the day of atonement, the bodies of animals were burned outside the camp. Priest were not allowed to eat of the sacrifice offered on the day of atonement. So also Jesus suffered and died outside the city gate. Under the new covenant believers are privileged to partake of the blessings of Christ perfect sacrifice. The writer encourages his readers to go out side the gate bearing the reproach Christ bore(13:13). Christians must be prepared to suffer shame and separation for Christ.
The author introduces a new concept of sacrifices and call upon the readers to offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually(13:15,16). Also they were encouraged to do good and share what they have with those in need. In such sacrifices, God is well pleased. They are to obey their spiritual leaders. Such obedience make it possible for them to fulfill their responsibilities with joy. They are accountable to God. The author requests prayer for himself and others who are with him. He is confident that their prayer will hasten his return. Then added the benediction which is addressed to the God of peace.This peace is the result of new covenant which Christ has established once for all. He is our great shepherd who is able to keep us safe and produce in us that which is pleasing in His sight through the new covenant. This prayer ends with ascribing glory and praise to Jesus Christ(13:21).
The writer ends this epistle with an appeal. He wants his readers to listen willingly his word of exhortation about Christ who is the complete and final revelation of God. He wants his readers to know that Timothy has been set free from prison. Many scholars hold the view that, the mention of Timothy here suggests, perhaps Apostle Paul wrote the epistle of Hebrews. The author expresses the desire that he and Timothy may together visit the readers to whom this letter was addressed. The readers are asked to greet their church leaders and to all fellow believers there. The phrase "Christians from Italy" may suggests that this letter was written to or from there. The author closes this letter by wishing God's grace upon all the readers of this epistle. May God bless you all. Amen
