Now may the God of peace...equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Hebrews 13:20-21
Today, I wrap my study of Hebrews, as my focus is the concluding verses 15-25 of Hebrews 13. I am assisted in my understanding by the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary Series for Hebrews. The commentary outlines five divisions for this text:
I. Offer Up Pleasing Sacrifices (13:15-16): The commentary emphasizes how the author of Hebrews is focused on Jewish converts to Christianity, and these readers are familiar with the Old Testament. The OT required animal sacrifices, yet with Christ, WE are to offer ourselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1) by modeling Christ and doing good out of our love for Christ. This includes praise and worship - both corporate and through our own testimony and evangelization to others.
II. Submit to Your Leaders (13:17)
III. Pray for Us (13:18-19)
IV. A Remarkable Benediction (13:20-21): The commentary describes the text here as "one of the most beautiful prayers ever uttered by a Christian." It also highlights how the text shares that it is God who equips us - not in our own strength.
V. Final Words (13:22-25)
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are good and You allow me to come to You directly - without an intermediary, and I don't need animal sacrifices - and You forgive and save! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You do all of this for me...I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
