Chapter 13
-The first imperative of the last chapter in Hebrews is to
make sure that the love of the brothers remains (Hebrews 13:1). Hospitality,
fellowship, and sharing are important ingredients that are commanded as well
(Hebrews 13:2, 16). There are times when we may even entertain angels and not
even be aware of it. Because we are all in the body of Christ Jesus, we are
instructed by command to remember those who are in prison, especially those
being persecuted for their faith in the Lord (Hebrews 13:3). Marriage is to be
honored (held precious, valued, respected, of great worth) and the morality of
chastity upheld for the sexually immoral and adulterers God will certainly
judge (Hebrews 13:4). Believers should keep their lives free from the love of
money and should always be content in whatsoever state God provides because He
will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). If the Lord is your helper,
we can confidently have no fear since man can do nothing to us outside of the
control of the Sovereign Creator (Hebrews 13:6). We are to obey and imitate the
faith of our leaders who have poured in the Word of God to us as we consider
their way of life in Christ. They will give an account one day for us, and it
will be profitable for us if they can do that with joy (Hebrews 13:7, 17).
*Application* These numerous exhortations and commands should help us in our
day to day walk in following our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We must consider
these things to be essential if we are to expect the blessings of the Lord in our
lives. To neglect His commands is of no benefit whatsoever to us.
-“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever
(Hebrews 13:8).” He does not change. His teachings remain true and full of
grace to the hearer. Jesus has sanctified us by His blood outside the gate and
allows us now to go outside the camp (outside of the bounds of the Law) bearing
the rejection of the religious establishment for the truth of knowing the
reality of who God is and the grace He gives. The city we are looking for is an
eternal city that is enduring and continuing, not a temporary physical place
(Hebrews 13:14). Because of this we can then offer up a continual sacrifice of
praise before the Lord and give thanks at all times by His great Name (Hebrews
13:15). *Application* The superiority of Christ is given one last appeal in
this closing section. We must consider Christ for our eternal destiny and not
neglect His great salvation forged in the shedding of His blood to initiate the
eternal covenant as the “Great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20).
-The author petitions prayer from the saints to whom he is
writing (Hebrews 13:18). He wants to be restored to them and believes it will
be sooner if there is vibrant and effectual prayer for what seems to be a
release from prison (Hebrews 13:19). Greetings are given and grace is
pronounced as the letter ends (Hebrews 13:24-25). *Application* Prayer matters
to God and to people. Be faithful to pray for those you know are in danger or
may need specific healing. Specific prayers get results when they are prayed in
faith. Don’t waver or doubt, go boldly before the throne of grace in your time
of need and receive miracles from God (Hebrews 4:16).
Verses to memorize-
Hebrews 13:2, 5, 17
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