Hebrews 13
BSB1 Continue in brotherly love. 2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. 3 Remember those in prison as if you were bound with them, and those who are mistreated as if you were suffering with them. 4 Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers. 5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you." 6 So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" 7 Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. 9 Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace and not by foods of no value to those devoted to them. 10 We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat. 11 Although the high priest brings the blood of animals into the Holy Place as a sacrifice for sin, the bodies are burned outside the camp. 12 And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate, to sanctify the people by His own blood. 13 Therefore let us go to Him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace He bore. 14 For here we do not have a permanent city, but we are looking for the city that is to come. 15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name. 16 And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. 17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you. 18 Pray for us; we are convinced that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. 19 And I especially urge you to pray that I may be restored to you soon. 20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with every good thing to do His will. And may He accomplish in us what is pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. 22 I urge you, brothers, to bear with my word of exhortation, for I have only written to you briefly. 23 Be aware that our brother Timothy has been released. If he arrives soon, I will come with him to see you. 24 Greet all your leaders and all the saints. Those from Italy send you greetings. 25 Grace be with all of you.
Study Notes — Hebrews 13
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Hebrews 13
- Themes from Hebrews 13
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Hebrews 13
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Hebrews chapter 13 begins by encouraging believers to continue in brotherly love, not forgetting to entertain strangers, and to remember those in prison. The chapter also warns against the love of money and the dangers of immorality, encouraging believers to be content with what they have and to trust in God's provision. The author also encourages believers to obey their leaders and to pray for them, and to strive for peace and holiness. The chapter concludes with a benediction, praying that God would equip believers with everything good to do His will, and that Jesus Christ would be glorified forever.
Context for the Chapter
Hebrews chapter 13 is the final chapter of the book of Hebrews, which is a letter written to Jewish believers who were struggling with their faith. The chapter provides practical instructions on how to live out their faith in everyday life, and encourages believers to trust in God's provision and care. The chapter is closely connected to the rest of the book of Hebrews, which emphasizes the superiority of Jesus Christ and the importance of faith and perseverance.
Heart Application
As believers, we are called to live a life that reflects our faith in Jesus Christ. This means demonstrating love and hospitality towards others, trusting in God's provision and care, and striving for peace and holiness. We are also called to obey our leaders and to pray for them, and to remember those who are in prison or who are being persecuted for their faith.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Hebrews chapter 13 is about living a life that reflects our faith in Jesus Christ. It encourages believers to demonstrate love and hospitality towards others, to trust in God's provision and care, and to strive for peace and holiness. As Jesus said, 'By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another' (John 13:35).
Voices from the Church
“The love of Christ is the greatest thing in the world, and it is the thing that will make us love one another.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“We must not only love our brethren, but we must also love our enemies, and pray for those who persecute us.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Importance of Brotherly Love (Hebrews 13:1-3) — The chapter begins by encouraging believers to continue in brotherly love, which is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life.
- The Dangers of Immorality (Hebrews 13:4-6) — The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, which can lead to spiritual destruction.
- The Unchanging Nature of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 13:7-8) — The chapter reminds believers of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
- The Importance of Obedience (Hebrews 13:17-19) — The chapter encourages believers to obey their leaders and to pray for them, and to remember those who are in prison or who are being persecuted for their faith.
- The Benediction (Hebrews 13:20-25) — The chapter concludes with a benediction, praying that God would equip believers with everything good to do His will, and that Jesus Christ would be glorified forever.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Brotherly Love
- Hebrews chapter 13 teaches that brotherly love is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, and that it is demonstrated through actions such as entertaining strangers and remembering those in prison.
- The Dangers of Immorality
- The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, which can lead to spiritual destruction.
- The Unchanging Nature of Jesus Christ
- The chapter reminds believers of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
- The Importance of Obedience
- The chapter encourages believers to obey their leaders and to pray for them, and to remember those who are in prison or who are being persecuted for their faith.
Lessons from Hebrews 13
- The Importance of Brotherly Love — Hebrews chapter 13 teaches that brotherly love is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, and that it is demonstrated through actions such as entertaining strangers and remembering those in prison.
- The Dangers of Immorality — The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, which can lead to spiritual destruction.
- The Unchanging Nature of Jesus Christ — The chapter reminds believers of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter encourages believers to obey their leaders and to pray for them, and to remember those who are in prison or who are being persecuted for their faith.
- The Benediction — The chapter concludes with a benediction, praying that God would equip believers with everything good to do His will, and that Jesus Christ would be glorified forever.
Themes from Hebrews 13
- The Importance of Brotherly Love — Hebrews chapter 13 teaches that brotherly love is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, and that it is demonstrated through actions such as entertaining strangers and remembering those in prison.
- The Dangers of Immorality — The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, which can lead to spiritual destruction.
- The Unchanging Nature of Jesus Christ — The chapter reminds believers of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter encourages believers to obey their leaders and to pray for them, and to remember those who are in prison or who are being persecuted for their faith.
- The Benediction — The chapter concludes with a benediction, praying that God would equip believers with everything good to do His will, and that Jesus Christ would be glorified forever.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that you can demonstrate brotherly love to those around you?
- How can you trust in God's provision and care, even in difficult circumstances?
- What are some dangers of immorality, and how can you avoid them?
- Why is it important to obey your leaders and to pray for them?
- How can you remember those who are in prison or who are being persecuted for their faith?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Importance of Brotherly Love (Hebrews 13:1-3)
| Hebrews 13:1 | The chapter begins by encouraging believers to continue in brotherly love, which is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. |
| Hebrews 13:2 | The chapter also encourages believers to entertain strangers, which is a demonstration of brotherly love. |
| Hebrews 13:3 | The chapter reminds believers to remember those who are in prison, and to treat them with kindness and compassion. |
2. The Dangers of Immorality (Hebrews 13:4-6)
| Hebrews 13:4 | The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, which can lead to spiritual destruction. |
| Hebrews 13:5 | The chapter encourages believers to be content with what they have, rather than coveting what others have. |
| Hebrews 13:6 | The chapter reminds believers that God is their helper, and that they can trust in Him to provide for their needs. |
3. The Unchanging Nature of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 13:7-8)
| Hebrews 13:7 | The chapter reminds believers to remember their leaders, and to imitate their faith. |
| Hebrews 13:8 | The chapter reminds believers of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. |
4. The Importance of Obedience (Hebrews 13:17-19)
| Hebrews 13:17 | The chapter encourages believers to obey their leaders, and to pray for them. |
| Hebrews 13:18 | The chapter reminds believers to pray for the author of the letter, that he may be restored to them soon. |
| Hebrews 13:19 | The chapter encourages believers to pray for the author, that he may be able to visit them soon. |
5. The Benediction (Hebrews 13:20-25)
| Hebrews 13:20 | The chapter concludes with a benediction, praying that God would equip believers with everything good to do His will. |
| Hebrews 13:21 | The chapter reminds believers that God is able to do far more abundantly than all that they ask or think. |
| Hebrews 13:22 | The chapter encourages believers to bear with the word of exhortation, for it is good for their souls. |
| Hebrews 13:23 | The chapter informs believers that Timothy has been released, and that he will visit them soon. |
| Hebrews 13:24 | The chapter encourages believers to greet all their leaders, and all the saints. |
| Hebrews 13:25 | The chapter concludes with a final greeting, and a prayer that Jesus Christ would be glorified forever. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Hebrews chapter 13?
The main theme of Hebrews chapter 13 is living a life that reflects our faith in Jesus Christ, demonstrating love and hospitality towards others, and trusting in God's provision and care.
What are some ways that believers can demonstrate brotherly love?
Believers can demonstrate brotherly love by entertaining strangers, remembering those in prison, and treating them with kindness and compassion (Hebrews 13:1-3).
What are the dangers of immorality?
The dangers of immorality include spiritual destruction, and the loss of faith and trust in God (Hebrews 13:4-6).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hebrews 13:1 → John 13:35 | Jesus taught that believers would be known by their love for one another, which is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. |
| 2 | Hebrews 13:2 → Genesis 18:1-8 | The story of Abraham entertaining strangers is an example of the importance of showing hospitality to those in need. |
| 3 | Hebrews 13:4 → 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 | The Bible warns against the dangers of immorality, which can lead to spiritual destruction. |
| 4 | Hebrews 13:5 → Philippians 4:11-13 | The Bible encourages believers to be content with what they have, rather than coveting what others have. |
| 5 | Hebrews 13:6 → Psalm 118:6-7 | The Bible reminds believers that God is their helper, and that they can trust in Him to provide for their needs. |
| 6 | Hebrews 13:7 → Hebrews 12:1-3 | The Bible encourages believers to remember their leaders, and to imitate their faith. |
| 7 | Hebrews 13:8 → John 1:1 | The Bible reminds believers of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. |
| 8 | Hebrews 13:20 → Ephesians 3:20-21 | The Bible encourages believers to trust in God's power and provision, and to pray that He would equip them with everything good to do His will. |
| 9 | Hebrews 13:21 → Romans 11:33-36 | The Bible reminds believers that God is able to do far more abundantly than all that they ask or think. |
| 10 | Hebrews 13:25 → Galatians 6:18 | The Bible concludes with a final greeting, and a prayer that Jesus Christ would be glorified forever. |
Sermons on Hebrews 13
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Are We Willing to Drink His Cup? by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a young girl who had a profound impact on the powerful women of her time. The girl preached against prostitution and even caught th |
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Dating Sermon by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the issue of young men in today's society, referring to them as "mall waifs" who spend their time playing video games and hanging out at malls |
|
Gods Presence by Kathryn Kuhlman | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is interested in each individual as if they were the only person in the world. He uses the story of Elisha and his servant to illus |
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The Inner Life of the Preacher by Gbile Akanni | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the personal inner life of a minister in bringing about revival. He highlights how Jesus took extra attention to prepare hi |
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(Costa Rica) Shiloh Church vs. Samuel Church by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses two choices that people are making and how it will affect their lives. He warns that some may be angered or feel a spiritual stirring as a re |
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Getting Alone - Abandonment (Cd Quality) by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of forgetting and never doing certain things. He criticizes the idea that preaching alone can reach the nations, pointing out |
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Are You Ready for the Coming of Jesus by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the coming of Jesus and the signs that will precede it. He references the scripture in Matthew 24, where Jesus compares his co |
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Praise - Part 2 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of dancing during a church service and how it brought liberation to the congregation. He encourages everyone to praise God, |
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Binding the Strongman by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the desire to see Jesus and have a personal encounter with Him. Jesus acknowledges this desire but redirects the attention to His impending |
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2005 Missions Conference - Session 1 by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story about a young man named Tim who experienced a traumatic event with his father. Despite the pain and fear he went through, Tim at |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Hebrews 13
Matthew Henry's commentary on Hebrews 13 emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects our faith in Jesus Christ. He notes that believers are called to demonstrate love and hospitality towards others, and to trust in God's provision and care. Henry also highlights the dangers of immorality, and encourages believers to be content with what they have, rather than coveting what others have. He reminds believers that God is their helper, and that they can trust in Him to provide for their needs. Finally, Henry concludes with a benediction, praying that God would equip believers with everything good to do His will, and that Jesus Christ would be glorified forever. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Brotherly Love
The chapter begins by encouraging believers to continue in brotherly love, which is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. This love is demonstrated through actions such as entertaining strangers and remembering those in prison.
The Dangers of Immorality
The chapter warns against the dangers of immorality, which can lead to spiritual destruction. Believers are encouraged to flee from immorality and to strive for peace and holiness.
The Unchanging Nature of Jesus Christ
The chapter reminds believers of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. This truth provides comfort and stability in a changing world.







