Hebrews
By Joyce Webb 2018
Chapter 13
Verse 1, 2
Paul tells the believers to show brotherly love to each other.
He says that some have invited strangers in and fed them and been kind to them, and discovered that they were not men— but angels.
(In the Old Testament, we have stories about that. Abraham, and Lot were two who invited men to eat and visit and later learned that they were angels.)
Verse 3
Paul tells them that they should remember those who are in prison.
He tells them to feel sympathy for them—to think what it would be like if them themselves were in prison.
(Remember Paul was in prison often in different cities because he preached about Jesus.)
Verse 4
Paul tells them that marriage is an honorable thing. Sexual union in marriage is a good thing.
But, he warns them, sexual union with a person you are not married to is a sin. It is not moral or right. Adultery is a sin.
God will judge those who do this.
Verse 5
Do not be jealous and have envy of others for the things that they have. Be satisfied and happy with what you have.
God said, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.”
Genesis 28:15 This was a promise God made to Jacob.
(Jesus said: “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20)
Verse 6
We can say–”The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” Psalms 27:1
Verse 7
Remember those leaders over you—-and have taught you the word of God. Follow them in faith. Think carefully about what they have taught you.
Verse 8
Jesus Christ , the same, yesterday, and today, and forever.
Verse 9
Do not believe every teaching you hear. Do not believe every new idea and teaching you hear.
Be firm and established in the grace of Christ.
It is his grace and mercy that has saved us. Not following rules about eating certain foods, and meats. Following such things have not helped those who follow them.
Verse 10
As Christians, we have an altar—-that earthly priests do not have a part in. (We do not need the altars of the Old Testament law, we have Christ as the “sacrifice” for us.)
Verse 11
The animals that were killed and sacrificed on the altars of the Old Testament were burned outside the camp.
Verse 12
Jesus’ body was sacrificed on the cross outside the city.
Verse 13
Let us be willing to bear suffering for Christ’s sake. We, as Christians, we will have bad things said about us.
Verse 14
As Christians, this earth is not our “home”. Our “home” is in heaven. We are just passing through this earthly time. Our destiny is an eternity in heaven.
Verse 15
Let us offer to God a sacrifice of praise. Let us praise him continually without stopping.
This praise is the fruit of our lips. We give thanks to his name.
Verse 16
Do good to others. Share with them about Jesus and what you have been taught. This is an offering that is pleasing to God.
Verse 17
Obey those leaders over you. They have the responsibly to watch over your souls. They will stand before God and give a report and answer to what they did and taught.
They want to be able to stand before God with joy, knowing they have done what is right for you.
Verse 18
Pray for us. We have a good conscience. We have been honest with you. We have lived honorably among you.
Verse 19
Pray that I can come to you soon.
Verse 20
Now, I pray that Jesus, who died and was raised again from the dead, the great shepherd of sheep. and through the blood of the everlasting covenant and promise, —–may he make you perfect in every good work.
May you do his will. May he work in you and teach you as he pleases.
May all this happen through Jesus Christ our Lord. Be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Verse 22
Brothers in Christ, I pray that you will think carefully about these things I have written in this short letter.
Verse 23
Our brother, Timothy, is now out of prison. If he comes to me soon, I will see you.
Verse 24
Say “Hello” to all your leaders and to the other believers there. The Christian believers of Italy send their “Hello” to you.
May God’s grace be with you all. Amen.