Hebrews 13:18-25

Personal Matters and Concluding Comments

The writer asked the brethren to pray in his behalf, as well as in behalf of the apostles and other proclaimers of the gospel. He preached the one true gospel, as did they, in opposition to all else, including the Judaizing teachers, because he believed it was what God would have him to do. He wanted their prayers and seemed to hope that they would help speed his return to them (Hebrews 13:18-19).

God can be described as the "God of peace" because He was the one that sent peace into the world (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:14). He was the God who raised His Son from the dead (Acts 2:24; Acts 3:15; Romans 4:24; 2 Corinthians 4:14; Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 1:21). The Jesus that God raised is also the "great Shepherd of the Sheep." That is, He is the leader of the church and the One everyone follows, including the shepherds, or elders of the local flock. Christ's resurrection was possible through the shedding of His blood. What else could have washed away the sins of the world? It is by virtue of that shed blood that Christians will also be raised one day (Hebrews 13:20).

The author prayed God would equip the Hebrew brethren and make them ready for all of the good works they needed to do. To a God of such power and goodness truly should be the glory of all men forever. Additionally, he prayed the Hebrew brethren would receive with patience and kindness the letter which had been written in the same manner. He could have written much more on such a vast subject, but did not. It appears he made the letter as brief as possible so he would not make them mad on these points that were touchy for them. This might be taken as a good warning for all preachers to present the word in truth, but not to browbeat the brethren solely on one sore spot (Hebrews 13:21-22).

The writer went on to tell his readers that Timothy had been set free, probably from prison, and if he came to him soon, they would be able to see the Hebrews. He sent his regards to the elders and teachers of the Hebrews, who had the rule over them. He also sent his regards to all of the saints, as did some Italian brethren. Finally, the writer prayed God's favor would be upon all of them (Hebrews 13:23-25).