Chapter 13 Summary
- The final chapter of Hebrews includes several exhortations. Christians are to love one another, be hospitable, remember the ill-treated, be honorable in their marriages, and avoid loving money (Hebrews 13:1-5).
- Disciples are also to put their complete trust in God and remember those who have helped them grow in their faith (Hebrews 13:6-7). While life is full of various changes, Christians are to be encouraged by the fact that the Lord doesn’t change! He is the same “yesterday, today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).
- Hebrews 13:9-16 a final contrast is given between the two covenants. Whereas under the old covenant, there were various kinds of dietary restrictions, no such limits are under the new covenant (Hebrews 13:9). Under the Law, there were times when animals were burned outside the camp. But Jesus was put to death outside of the city. These Christians needed to draw near to Him and realize that going back to the Old Law was not going to save them (Hebrews 13:10-13). They needed to focus on the heavenly city, the spiritual altar, and offering the sacrifice of praise by the fruit of their lips to God (Hebrews 13:14-16).
- The book closes with the writer urging disciples to be submissive and respectful towards their church leaders (Hebrews 13:17), and to remember him in their prayers (Hebrews 13:18-19). The writer also says a prayer of blessing on their behalf (Hebrews 13:20-21).
Chapter 13 Questions
- Why would the exhortations of Hebrews 13:1-5 be especially crucial for the Hebrew Christians to do (given their current crisis)?
- In Hebrews 13:10-16, what contrast is given in regards to altars, blood, and sacrifices?
- Who are the leaders who “keep over our souls” (Hebrews 13:17)? What are we told to do towards them? What warning is given to those who fail to do this?
- What does the writer request in Hebrews 13:18-19? What conclusion can we draw about him based on this request?
