Final Encouragements (Hebrews 13:1-25)

"Brothers and sisters, I urge you to bear with my word of exhortation, for in fact I have written to you quite briefly. I want you to know that our brother Timothy has been released. If he arrives soon, I will come with him to see you. Greet all your leaders and all the Lord’s people. Those from Italy send you their greetings." Hebrews 13:22-24 (NIV)

Context

The book of Hebrews is anonymous and its original readers are not explicitly identified. Today’s video outlines some of the options that have been suggested.

Observation

The author gets very practical in this final chapter. As you read it, notice his specific commands to the original readers.

Also, notice how he brings in tabernacle and sacrificial imagery even here (see Hebrews 13:10-16).

He concludes by urging the readers to “bear with my [brief] word of exhortation” (13:22) and his hope to be able to visit soon (13:19, 23).

Interpretation

Whoever the first readers of Hebrews were, this chapter indicates that the author of this letter knew them personally (13:19) and was very aware of their context. He was not merely interested in providing them with sound teaching on the identity of Jesus and the significance of his sacrifice. He wanted the implications of his teaching to impact their lives in very practical ways.

As you read this chapter, consider what it tells you about the author of this letter. Also, consider the personal relationship he had with these readers. How would that relationship impact their reading of his warnings, encouragements, and teaching on the superiority of Jesus?

Application

This chapter is a reminder of the personal relationship the authors of the New Testament letters had with their first readers.

Do you have this kind of relationship with other believers? Who is speaking into your life, as a mentor or a guide? Whose life are you speaking into?