Hebrews 13:1-6
1 “Let love of the brothers and sisters continue. 2 Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it. 3 Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are badly treated, since you yourselves also are in the body.4 Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled; for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers. 5 Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you,” 6 so that we confidently say,
‘The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid.
What will man do to me?’”
Verse 1: The author begins by urging believers to let mutual love continue. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining a spirit of love and unity among fellow believers. It encourages them to actively demonstrate love towards one another, reflecting the love of Christ in their relationships.
Verse 2: Believers are instructed not to neglect showing hospitality to strangers. This highlights the value of welcoming and caring for others, even those who are unfamiliar to us. The author reminds them that in showing hospitality, they may unknowingly encounter angels or messengers of God. This serves as a reminder of the potential divine encounters that can occur through acts of kindness and hospitality.
Verse 3: Believers are called to remember and empathize with those who are in prison or facing persecution. They are encouraged to identify with their suffering and to support them as if they themselves were experiencing the same hardships. This highlights the importance of solidarity and compassion towards those who are facing persecution for their faith.
Verse 4: The author emphasizes the importance of honoring marriage and maintaining sexual purity. Believers are encouraged to hold marriage in high regard and to keep the marriage bed undefiled. This serves as a reminder of the sanctity of marriage and the need to uphold God’s standards of sexual purity. The warning of God’s judgment against fornicators and adulterers underscores the seriousness of sexual immorality.
Verse 5: Believers are instructed to keep their lives free from the love of money and to be content with what they have. This encourages them to prioritize their relationship with God over material possessions and to find contentment in him. The assurance that God will never leave or forsake them reminds believers of His faithfulness and provision, giving them confidence and security in their reliance on him.
Verse 6: The passage concludes with a declaration of confidence in God’s help and protection. Believers are encouraged to trust in the Lord as their helper, knowing that they have no need to fear. This affirmation reminds them that God’s presence and support are sufficient, regardless of any opposition or challenges they may face. It reinforces the idea that their ultimate security lies in God and His faithfulness.