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Book of Hebrews
Chapter 13
Theme: LOVE
As I said before, chapter 11 is the faith chapter of the Epistle to the Hebrews; chapter 12 is the hope chapter; and chapter 13 is the love chapter. I think in chapter 13 we will see what the Christian should practice, and that is LOVE, which is the teaching of the Lord Jesus.
John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. (KJV)
John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. (KJV)
Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: (KJV)
The Spirit of Christian Love (Hebrews 13:1-6)
Hebrews 13:1 Let brotherly love continue. (KJV)
Let brotherly love continue . . . brotherly love is a special display of charity, or love. The Church of Jerusalem, to which in part this Epistle was addressed, was well-known by this grace, which we know from their acts (Heb.6:10; 10:32-34; 12:12-13).
The writer of this Letter is writing mainly to Hebrews, but what he has to say applies to us. Both Jew and Gentile have been brought into one body (Gal.3:26-29), the body of believers. The cement that holds us together is brotherly love. We are to love because we are brothers.
Red, yellow, black or white . . . we all are “brothers” if we are God’s TRUE children. Skin color makes NO difference when we are children of God! It is our hearts that God is concerned with! When He gives us new hearts (Eze.11:19; 36:26), and washes us white as snow (Isa.1:18), we are brothers, we are in the family of God, and we are to love one another. The Christian life is a life of faith, and of love toward God, and of love toward others.
Some Passages on charity and love: (Jn.13:34-35; Rom.12:10; 1 Cor.13:1-8; Gal.6:10; Col.3:14; 1 Thes.2:12; 4:9-10; 5:15; 1 Pet. 1:22; 2:17; 3:8; 2 Pet.1:7; 1 Jn.3:14,16; 4:21).
Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (KJV)
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers . . . for the duty of hospitality, see an explanation in Romans 12:12-14. http://www.godcannotlie.org/book_of_romans_ch.12.htm
For thereby some have entertained angels unawares . . . without knowing that they were angels, such as Abraham (Gen.18:2), and Lot (Gen.19). The reason urged for doing this is that by entertaining the stranger we may be honored with the presence of those whose society will be to us an honor and a blessing.
The word angel may refer to superhuman beings or it may refer to human beings who are messengers from God. The same word is used to address the leaders of the seven churches of Asia Minor in chapters 2 and 3 of the Book of Revelation, in which I think that the "angels" are the teachers or leaders of the churches being addressed.
Hebrews 13:3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. (KJV)
Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body . . . at the time this was written, there were most likely many in prison. They, and we, are to remember all who are bound; whether prisoners of war; captives in dungeons; those detained in custody for trial; those who are imprisoned for righteousness' sake (Mat.5:10; 1 Pet.3:14); those held in slavery. This probably refers to their fellow Christians who were suffering imprisonment because of their religion, but it should apply to every case of those who are imprisoned or oppressed . . . then and NOW! The word remember means much more than just to think of them (Ex.20:8; Ecc.12:1). It means that we are to remember them with proper sympathy . . . and as we would wish others to remember us if we were in their circumstances. We are #1. to feel deep compassion for them; and #2. we are to remember them in our prayers;
Jesus said that His true followers would represent Him as they visit those in prison (Mat.25:36). Prisons are a mission field. Believers can send in evangelists, Bible teachers and as we do, Christian literature and hand written letters to them. We are to have compassion for suffering people. There are many ways to obey this command to "remember those in prison."
Hebrews 13:4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. (KJV)
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge . . . my comment on this verse most likely shall anger some. I teach the Holy Word of God, and I KNOW what it says on marriage. And what God clearly states about marriage is NOT what the vast majority of the world say! When I have trouble saying what I mean, I always let God say it for me.
Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. (KJV)
Exodus 20:14 Thou shalt not commit adultery. (KJV)
1 Cor. 6:18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (KJV)
Genesis 19:24-28 Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven; 25 And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground. 26 But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt. 27 And Abraham gat up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD: 28 And he looked toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the plain, and beheld, and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace. (KJV)
Leviticus 18:22-24 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. 23 Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it is confusion. 24 Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you: (KJV)
Leviticus 20:13-16 If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. 14 And if a man take a wife and her mother, it is wickedness: they shall be burnt with fire, both he and they; that there be no wickedness among you. 15 And if a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to death: and ye shall slay the beast. 16 And if a woman approach unto any beast, and lie down thereto, thou shalt kill the woman, and the beast: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. (KJV)
Romans 1:24-32 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. (KJV)
1 Cor. 6:9-11 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. (KJV)
1 Timothy 1:8-11 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; 9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; 11 According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust. (KJV)
Marriage was instituted by God and practiced by every culture since the creation of man, and is under attack in America today, and in fact the entire world! There is no discrimination against homosexuals in America with regard to marriage, no unequal treatment. Homosexuals are equally as free to marry as any other American. The problem is, the Biblical definition of marriage requires a person to marry someone of the opposite sex. Just because homosexuals do not want to enter into a Biblical marriage, will not make what they are doing right in God’s Eyes!
People can change how marriage is defined in this land, but the OLD definition is still in effect in God’s Eyes! Marriage involves two people of opposite sexes who are biologically capable of reproducing and forming families.
I believe God, and I believe that He does NOT change (Mal.3:6). I believe God, and I believe that He cannot lie (Tit.1:2). I believe God, and I believe that unless homosexuals change their lifestyles and the way they view Almighty God, they shall go to the Lake of Fire (Rev. 20:15). I believe God, and I believe that He is a consuming fire (Heb.12: 29; Deut.4:24; 9:3) who shall destroy ALL evil and unholy things in His path on Judgment Day. BEWARE!!!
Hebrews 13:5 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. (KJV)
Let your conversation be without covetousness . . . let your lifestyle, your conduct (Phil.1:27), be without covetousness. Covetousness is greed! It is an excessive desire for riches, a deep yearning for things of the world, accompanied with dissatisfaction and discontent with what they have. Be without covetousness (Eph.5:3; Col.3:5).
And be to content with such things as ye have . . . (Phil.4:11-12; May 6:25). The precise reason given here for contentment is, that God has promised never to leave His people.
For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee . . . nearly the same expression is found in several Scriptures, and all of them contain the same principle on which the writer here relies, that God will NOT forsake His people. I will never leave thee: (Gen.28:15; Deut.31:6,8; Josh.1:5; 1 Chron.28:20; Ps.37:28; 41:10; Isa.41:10,17).
Hebrews 13:6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (KJV)
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper . . . the Hebrew Christians in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria would face punishment and trials in the next few years. They needed to remember that God was not going to forsake them. They needed to know that He would be there, and would be able to say without any hesitation or doubt, The Lord is my helper.
In times when we are confused or threatened, in times when we hardly know where our next meal is coming from, we can put our trust in God, and be assured that He will not leave us to suffer. Phil. 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (KJV)
And I will not fear what man shall do unto me . . . faith expels fear from our hearts, and replaces it with boldness, confidence and courage. God’s children need not fear man’s evil towards us. When God is on our side, we can have victory. God’s children need neither fear the storms of “Mother Nature” as the media calls it. I cannot understand how people simply cannot SEE that all the natural events are totally controlled by God. Do you think that the weird weather we have at times is just a freak accident? NO way! God is trying to get people’s attention! But they just keep on keeping on in their sin. God’s TRUE children need not fear what man shall do unto us. He is on our side, and is always there for us. Psalm 73:24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. (KJV) . . . It doesn’t get any better than this! Psalm 46:2-3 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. (KJV)
http://www.judgmentcoming.org/j_c_judgment_what's_in_store.htm
http://www.worldlychaos.org/w_c_earthquakes.1.htm
http://www.lastdaysprophecy.org/L_D_prophecies_fulfilled_in_our_time.htm
Social Life of the Believer (Hebrews 13:7-14)
Hebrews 13:7 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. (KJV)
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 . . . this may refer to teachers who had been with them for a while, and then had gone elsewhere, or to those who had died. The writer is speaking of spiritual leaders who lead people to Christ. If a preacher is presenting Christ and is attempting to bring people into the Presence of Christ, then that is a man to whom you should be loyal. Whose faith follow . . . the best way to remember such preachers is to imitate them, to believe the doctrine which they taught and practiced, and to be as steadfast in the faith, and holding it out to others. Considering the end of their conversation . . . the lifestyle was such that mimicked that of Christ's (1 Cor.11:1). It was honest, upright and blameless. Their very life, was hid with Christ in God (Col.3:3).
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. (KJV)
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and for ever . . . the same yesterday, and today, and forever. Yes! All that He has been, He will be for ever . . . from the present moment, and for evermore. All that Jesus Christ will be for ever . . . He is at this very moment for you. Think of Him in the fullest disclosure of His glory. Think of Him in the incredible closeness of the union you have with Him. Think of Him and His love which shall be yours from here to eternity! Let your faith say, all that He ever will be, He is today. He does NOT change! There are NO changes in Jesus, ever! All that He will be in eternity, He is that to you today! The same yesterday, today and for ever. Even with all the changes in the church and the world, and the circumstances all around us, or within our heart, in this one statement is a strength and a joy nothing can take away: Jesus Christ, the same yesterday and today, and for ever.
Hebrews 13:9 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. (KJV)
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines . . . the writer certainly is giving great advice to The Hebrew Christians . . . and us! The word "divers" may mean the variety and multitude of other doctrines; referring either to the various rites and ceremonies of the law, or to the traditions of the elders, or to the several false doctrines of men, whether Jews or Gentiles.
The doctrine of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Gospel of His apostles, is just one; it is uniform, and so may also mean the opposites of other doctrines contrasted with the perfections of God, the Person and offices of Christ, the Scriptures of truth, the teaching of faith.
For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace . . . the doctrine of grace is food for the soul, food for faith, and does not leave people uncertain about things; but launches the heart, with respect to the love and favor of God, and builds souls upon the Solid Foundation, Christ; so that they are not at a loss about the pardon of sin, justification and salvation; but firmly look for and expect eternal happiness by Christ, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Rom.5:2),
Not with meats . . . referring to the difference of meats among the Jews; or the sacrifices ate both by the priests and by the people; or the whole ceremonial law which stood in various meats and drinks,
Which have not profited them that have been occupied therein . . . it is amazing that most of the cults today go in for special diets. I think that food is important as far as the health of the body, but it has NOTHING to do with your relationship to God. 1 Cor. 8:8 But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse. (KJV) . . . Also see (Rom.14:17; Col.2:20-23).
The writer is saying the same thing here. Do wander off into these strange cults and teachings in where diet, ceremonies and rituals are supposed to make you some kind of marvelous saint. That is not so! Nothing will build you up except the Holy Word of God, for only it can bring you into the awesome Presence of Christ, and only the Holy Spirit can take the things of Christ and make them real unto you. BEWARE!!! Stay away from cults!
http://www.worldlychaos.org/w_c_cults.1.htm
Hebrews 13:10 We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle. (KJV)
We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat that serve the tabernacle . . . a comparison is being made here between the old covenant in contrast to the better things of the new covenant. Believers today have an altar. This altar is not the Lord's Supper as some people mistakenly interpret it to mean. We do not have a real altar with a local address, but instead we have an altar which is in Heaven. It is the throne of grace. It was a throne of judgment, where He condemned us there, but now since the precious Blood of Jesus has been placed there, we can come, any time, 24/7 and find mercy and grace.
The only place you can have real Christian fellowship is around the Word of God. It is only the Word of God that can bring you to the Person of Christ and enables you to see Him in all His glory. Please do not pass Him by.
Hebrews 13:11 For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp. (KJV)
For the bodies of those beasts . . . the goats and bullocks brought for sacrifice, not the red heifer (Num.19:1-22).
Whose blood is brought into the sanctuary . . . meaning into the holy of holies,
By the high priest for sin . . . to make atonement for it, for his own, and for the sins of his family, and of all Israel,
Are burnt without the camp . . . (Lev.16:27), the men that burnt the animals were unclean, although, when washed, were received: which was typical of the sufferings of Christ without Jerusalem, as the next verse shows; and points out the extent of His sufferings, reaching to all parts of His Body, and even to His Soul; and expresses not only the pains, but the shame and reproach He endured, signified by the burning of the dung; and hints at the pardon of the wicked Jews, who were concerned in His sufferings; which was applied unto them upon their repentance.
This verse compares the sacrifice of beasts of the old covenant, and that of Christ: the animals being burned outside the camp and Christ being crucified outside the gates of Jerusalem.
Hebrews 13:12 Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. (KJV)
Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood . . .
Jesus died outside the city. Why? Because He was the sin offering of the new covenant. The sin offering of the old covenant was taken away from the Temple and "burned without the camp." Jesus was our sin Offering, and He paid the penalty for our sin.
Suffered without the gate . . . outside of Jerusalem, "without the city" meaning Jerusalem.
Hebrews 13:13 Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. (KJV)
Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach . . . the Jewish Christians were being ridiculed and persecuted by Jews who did not believe that Jesus was the Messiah. The Book of Hebrews tells them how Christ Jesus is greater than the sacrificial system. Here the writer stresses the point of his lengthy argument . . . it may be necessary to leave the camp and suffer with Christ. To be outside the camp meant to be unclean. In the days of the Exodus, those who were ceremonially unclean had to stay outside the camp. Jesus suffered tremendous humiliation and uncleanness outside the Jerusalem gates on their behalf. The writer says that the time had come for these Jewish Christians to declare their loyalty to Christ, above any other loyalty (Mat.10:37), to choose to follow the Messiah no matter what suffering might come. They needed to move outside what they though was the safe confinement of their past, their traditions, and their ceremonies . . . to live for Christ. Jesus must be #1 in our lives. If He is not, you may one day hear some words from Him that you do not want to hear!
Matthew 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV) . . . Is there something that is holding you back from complete loyalty to Jesus Christ?
The writer is saying to these Hebrew Christians, Go to Him, go to Jesus. My friend, we too, are to go to Jesus. True children of God are on our way to a heavenly Jerusalem (Heb.12:22). This is real separation he is talking about here. Actual separation is not from . . . it is unto. Paul said he was separated unto the gospel (Rom.1:1), separated unto Christ, separated unto the Word of God. The Hebrew Christians hated to leave the Temple and their religion. So many people today are wrapped up in their ‘religion’, thinking that because they are members of a church they are saved. The church CANNOT save you. Church ceremonies and rituals CANNOT save you. You must go to Jesus! THAT is real separation, and that is real salvation.
Hebrews 13:14 For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. (KJV)
For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come . . . again the writer makes it very clear that we have nothing permanent down here on Earth. Christians love their families, their spouses, jobs and churches . . . BUT . . . we should have our sights set far beyond the horizon. Christians should be characterized by looking forward to the future. We should not get so attached to this world, because everything that we are and have here is temporary. We should not love our present life so much that we lose sight of God's future blessing. Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (KJV) . . . The Lord Jesus is all-wise. Listen to Him. TRUE believers are going to a permanent home, God’s Home!
Hebrews 11:10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. (KJV) . . . We too, must look forward to this city! God CANNOT lie! It is there, waiting for all who are wise enough to GO TO JESUS!
Spiritual Life of the Believer (Hebrews 13:15-19)
Hebrews 13:15 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. (KJV)
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 . . . WHAT sacrifice does God want from us? It is the sacrifice of praise. My friend, it is one that you can easily afford! Our lips should confess God's Name in praise and thanksgiving . . . continually! BUT, how many people do you come in contact with, that use God's Name profanely? How many TV shows are there today that do not blaspheme God? And among these many people who vilely miss-use God’s Name, are a multitude of supposed Christians, people who SAY they are Christians. Dear one, a TRUE Christian will separate themselves from such wickedness (2 Cor.6:17). You do NOT need that filth of TV programming, and you certainly do NOT need friends who blaspheme God!
We should offer Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise. He certainly is worthy of that! A "sacrifice of praise" today would include thanking Jesus for His once for all Sacrifice on the cross and telling others about it. Acts of kindness and sharing are especially pleasing to God, even when they go unnoticed by others.
A child of God is a priest today and can bring sacrifices to God. There are four sacrifices of a believer.
- #1. You can sacrifice yourself (Rom.12:1). When you truly give yourself to the Lord, all other giving is easy.
- #2. You can sacrifice your purse (2 Cor.8:1-5). If He does not have your purse, He does not have you.
- #3. You can offer the sacrifice of praise, which we find in this verse.
- #4. And you can offer the sacrifice of doing good (good works), which we find in the following verse.
Hebrews 13:16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. (KJV)
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased . . .
since these Jewish Christians, because of their witness to the Messiah, no longer worshiped with other Jews, they were to consider praise and acts of service their sacrifices, and these sacrifices are ones they could offer anywhere, anytime. This may have reminded them of the prophet Hosea's words: Hosea 14:2 Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. (KJV)
This is not to be understood, of doing good works in general, but instead, of acts of charity, or interacting with "the poor". The writer wants them to take notice of another kind of sacrifice, which continues from the old covenant, into the new Gospel dispensation; and that is, alms. Alms should be given, or charity be exercised to all men in need, even to our enemies, as well as to our friends and relations; and especially to poor saints, and ministers of the Gospel.
I will say something I have said before in other commentaries, and that is, I am totally against all this free government hand-out to the supposed “poor.” 2 Thes. 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. (KJV)
There are other Passages as well (Gen.3:19; Pro.13:4; 20:4; 21:25; 24:30-34; 1 Thes.4:11).
I believe that it is a sin to be able bodied and insist that the government support you. There are those who are not able to work, or are elderly, that need this money. An able bodied person does NOT! I do not care who you are, I am sure that you will not be able to come up with an excuse for this when you stand before the Great Judge! . . . My opinion. I know you may think I should keep my mouth shut, but this to me is SO wrong! We have a 45 year old grandson on food stamps. He is just too lazy to work, and not about to work as long as the government feeds him.
Hebrews 13:17 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. (KJV)
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 . . . we had this same thought in verse 7. If your pastor is a man of God who is teaching the Truth in the Word of God, then you are to obey the Word of God as he has given it to you. It would be better to not hear the Word of God, than to hear it and not obey what is said. It is the job of church leaders is to help people grow in Christ. Helpful followers greatly ease the burden of leadership. Our conduct should never grieve the church leaders, for it is our souls they watch over. But, a warning, IF you find that the pastor is watering down the Word of God, or IF he is preaching damnable heresies (2 Pet.2:1) . . . GET OUT OF THERE! For in today’s world, many are the false ones in the pulpits.
http://www.judgmentcoming.org/f_falsehoods_rampant.1.htm
Hebrews 13:18 Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. (KJV)
Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly . . .
pray for us . . . clearly the readers of this Letter knew the writer, who some think was Paul.
For we trust we have good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly . . . it is wonderful to go to sleep at night with a good conscience, a conscience enlightened by the Word of God. So many people are NOT walking in the light. 1 John 1:6-7 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. (KJV)
Our life in Jesus is not selfish luxury; there is work for us to do, work that calls for self-denial and self-sacrifice. Let us pray for God's servants and all His saints; and let us be sure that nowhere can greater wonders be done, than by faith, and than as our faith deals with God in prayer.
Christians are priests! We have access into the Holiest! Christ went in with the Blood of His Sacrifice. We enter continually with our sacrifice . . . the praise of God and the confession of His Name; deeds of charity and compassion, obedience and submission to those over us in the Lord. Prayer and intercession . . . through Him let us continually offer.
Hebrews 13:19 But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner. (KJV)
But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner . . . it is clearly implied that the writer was stopped from visiting them by some circumstances over which he had no control. This might be imprisonment or sickness, or the want of a proper chance of reaching them. The likelihood is, judging particularly from the statement in verse 23, that he was then a prisoner, and that his detention was on that account.
Hebrews 13:20 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, (KJV)
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 . . . this is the closing part of the Letter, which is ended with a prayer, and made up of very suitable petitions for the Hebrews.
God is the Author, the Source of peace (1 Thes.5:23). The word peace in the New Testament is used to mean every kind of blessing or happiness. It is the opposite of anything that would disturb or trouble the mind, and could refer to reconciliation with God, which brings an undisturbed conscience, which is felt by pardoned sin. Peace is our hope of Heaven.
That brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus (Acts 2:32; 1 Cor.15:15). It is only by the FACT of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus that we have peace, for it is only by him that we have the prospect of an admission into Heaven (Jn.14:6,27).
That great shepherd of the sheep (Jn.10:2,14). It is only through the tender care of that Great Shepherd that true happiness is bestowed on the people of God.
Through the blood of the everlasting covenant . . . the precious Blood of Jesus (1 Pet.1:18-19), shed to confirm the everlasting covenant that God makes with His people (Heb.9:14,15-23).
That which makes Him so very distinguished, is that by which He was made superior to all others who ever ruled over the people of God, was the fact that He offered the Blood by which the eternal covenant was approved and confirmed. It is called everlasting or eternal, because:
#1. it was formed in the councils of eternity, and was the eternal plan in the Mind of God, and
#2. because it is to continue for ever. Only through this covenant, can God bestow permanent and solid "peace" on His people, for it lays the foundation of the assurance of eternal happiness.
Hebrews 13:21 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. (KJV)
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. . . . the writer does not affirm that they were then perfect, or that they would be in this life on Earth. I think the meaning is, that the writer prayed that God would endow them with whatever grace was needed to do His will and to keep His commandments. This is a proper prayer to be offered at any and all times, that God would make all His people qualified to do all His will.
Working in you . . . I think the idea here is, that the Holy Spirit would work in them to help them do the will of God, that He would cause them to do what was well-pleasing in His sight. It is not from any expectation that man would do it himself.
Through Jesus Christ . . . God does not directly and by His own immediate agency convert and sanctify the heart, it is done through the Gospel of Christ, and any and all good influences on the soul must be expected to come through the Saviour.
To whom be glory for ever and ever . . . meaning glory to Christ Jesus, for only He deserves it.
The Priest-King, on His ascension to the throne, sent down the Holy Spirit into the hearts of His people. With Jesus at the right hand of God, He is still able to dwell in them, by His Spirit. And it is in that Power that we can live a pleasing life to God. Do you ever really Considered Jesus? Do you see that you can live in the Heavenly City with Him one day? (Heb.11:16; 12:22). By faith! FAITH is the key to it all. By faith! In fullness of faith! We can inherit every Promise. Faith is moved with godly fear, faith pays attention! Faith obeys and forsakes all, and presses on to enter the land! Faith looks to Jesus, holds fast its boldness, and draws nigh to God. Faith sees how in Christ, God has worked out His will, and sees that God will just as surely work in us too what is pleasing in His sight, and shall conquer our every difficulty and every enemy. By faith we inherit every Promise, and dare to sing even now: To Him be glory for ever and ever!
Hebrews 13:22 And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words. (KJV)
And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words . . . the writer ends his Letter to the Hebrews in a very tender and affectionate way, calling them "brethren". He does not speak to them in a commanding way, but by pleading.
For I have written a letter unto you in few words . . . this means that this Letter is brief compared with the importance and difficulty of the subjects of which he had brought up. The subjects introduced could have been much more extended, but in handing them he had made use of as few words as possible. No one can deny this who considers the serious manner of this Letter.
The writer both cautions and rebukes (Heb.12:5), and encourages (Heb.6:18). The Letter has combined all elements most remarkably. In the six warnings of peril, and in its exhorting and encouraging parts, its tone has been one of faithful criticism, with a view to convict sin, to awaken to a sense of danger, and to urge to repentance. At the same time, everything has been done to quicken faith and hope, and to urge perseverance (hanging in there), by pointing to the strong encouragement to be found in the Word of God and the power of Christ.
Hebrews 13:23 Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you. (KJV)
Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you . . . we have no record of Timothy's imprisonment, but we know that he had been in prison because it states here that he had been released.
Hebrews 13:24 Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you. (KJV)
Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you . . . the pastors and officers of the church of the Hebrews, are the same as those in verse 7 & 17. And all the saints . . . members of the church, who were set apart to holiness by God, whose sins were atoned by Christ, and who were internally sanctified by the Spirit of God, and lived holy lives. To these the writer wished all prosperity, inward and outward, spiritual and temporal; and he uses the word "all" in both clauses, meaning he included every officer and member, and expresses his love to them, whether high or low, rich or poor, greater or lesser believers.
They of Italy salute you . . . the Italian brethren; such as were at Puteoli, and other places, in that country (Acts 28:13-14). Italy is a famous and well known country in Europe; where the writer very likely was now.
The Book of Hebrews is a call to Christian maturity. It was addressed to first-century Jewish Christians, but it applies to Christians of any age or background. Christian maturity means making Christ the beginning and end of our faith. To grow in maturity, we must center our life on Him! We cannot depend on religious ceremonies and rituals, we cannot fall back into sin, we cannot trust in ourselves, and we cannot let ANYTHING come between us and Christ. Christ is sufficient for anything that comes our way. Christ is FAR superior to the old covenant.
Hebrews 13:25 Grace be with you all. Amen. (KJV)
Grace be with you all, Amen . . . the writer pronounces a blessing on the Hebrew Christians.
Are you are making it the one purpose of your life to live up to this Book’s glorious revelation of the life of Jesus, who is God? Do you trust and obey God? Do you have faith that Jesus died on the cross for you? Do you know you will one day go to Heaven? You can know!
John 20:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. (KJV)
1 John 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. (KJV)
May God grant you faith to believe.
Book of Hebrews
ch.1 . . ch.2 . . ch.3 . . ch.4 . . ch.5 . . ch.6 . . ch.7 . . ch.8 . . ch.9 . . ch.10 . . ch. 11 . . ch.12 . . ch.13. . Special Comments
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