Hebrews 13:1-14
Q.1. What makes it worthwhile to remain true to our God-given priorities? Where does God figure in our earthly journey? – (Heb.13:1-6)
We are commanded to love God and others, starting at home. There may be an unexpected blessing – Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it (Heb.13:2). There were many prisoners who were ill-treated for their faith in Christ. We must cultivate an attitude of contentment with what we have and resist the discontent of our age. For all who are determined to remain faithful we have the promise that God will never forsake us, and will support His children – 5 … He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you,” 6 so that we confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?” (Heb.13:4-5). We can count on God.
Q.2. What point was the writer making, in reminding us about Christ’s changelessness and suffering? Where should our focus be as we suffer ridicule? – (Heb.13:7-14)
We can stake our lives on the trustworthiness of our Lord and Saviour – Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Heb.13:8). However, the writer did not want this to be taken unrealistically. He reminded His readers that – 12 Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate. 13 So, let us go out to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach (Heb.13:12-13). To follow Christ does not prevent trials, or even acute suffering. The price Jesus paid for us cannot be compared with the temporary and superseded sacrifices and offerings of Judaism. Tests may be severe, but the contrast with what we can anticipate could not be greater – For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come (Heb.13:14). If we are tempted to place our trust in a different teaching, the writer warned – Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings; for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, through which those who were so occupied were not benefited (Heb.13:8).