Hebrews 13 reads far differently than Hebrews 1-12. After a number of great themes have been introduced and expounded, in an oddly Paul-like fashion, the author turns to a litany of brief exhortations as he draws the epistle to a close.
“Let brotherly love continue.” The author conveys a familiarity and endorsement of the brethren. He did not command them to love one another; he exhorted them to continue loving one another (cf 6:10).
“Do not forget to entertain strangers.” Hospitality has become a lost art in today’s busy world, and hospitality to strangers is unheard of. This was a loving reminder to help those with whom they were unfamiliar, not because there was a promise to entertain angels, but because some had entertained angels in times past and were blessed. We may still be blessed today in so doing. Who knows what good might be returned on our heads for an unconventional act of kindness?
“Remember the prisoners as if chained with them–those who mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also.” This draws the mind to a couple of Pauline texts elsewhere in the new covenant: “If one member suffers, all the members suffer with it” (1 Cor 12:26), and, “Weep with those who weep” (Rom 12:15).
“Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled.” This text upholds the beauty and purity of marriage, but it also issues a dire warning to those who would pervert or circumvent this divine institution and its divine privileges. All sexual relationships outside of the God-given and God-DEFINED confines of marriage constitute fornication (cf 1 Cor 7:1-2).
“Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have.” There is a difference between being pacified and contentment. A person who cannot control himself or herself from buying things to make them happy is never content, only temporarily pacified. Contentment is a state of mind that is manifested in a balanced life and manifests a deep and abiding faith in God. The former is a slave to the desires of the flesh.
“Remember those who rule over you.” This verse, along with verse 17, are among the strongest statements concerning the Christian’s responsibility to the elders who oversee the local church. It is also a reminder to them that they will give an account of their stewardship over the Lord’s flock (cf 1 Pet 5:1-4).
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