Christian Duties Series

1. Do not give into false teaching.

a) Christians are to be unified in doctrine.

b) The strange doctrines here spoken of is the Greek word ξένος xenos, which translates “foreign”, probable to the Gospel of Christ.

c) These teachings are probably the Jewish prohibitions to food.

2. There is a Christian Alter.

a) It seems like one of the arguments being presented against the true form of Christianity is that there is no alter.

b) Paul here confirms that Christ is our alter and he is greater then any alter made by man.

3. Christians are sanctified by the blood of Christ.

c. Be benevolent. (16)

Hebrews 13:16 KJV

(16) But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

1. The Christian should always look for opportunities to do good.

2. We should share.

3. God will be pleased with these sacrifices.

d. Be obedient to leaders in the church (17)

Hebrews 13:17 KJV

(17) Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

1. The leaders of the church must be obeyed.

2. We are to submit to their faithful will.

3. Any injunction they give is one that has been considered gravely.

III. Instructions and greeting. (18-25)

a. Prayer request. (18-19)

Hebrews 13:18-19 KJV

(18) Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. (19) But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner.

1. Paul request prayers

2. Everything he has done has been with a clean conscience.

3. He desires to come to them quickly.

b. Prayer for the readers (20-21)

Hebrews 13:20-21 KJV

(20) Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,

(21) Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

1. He calls on the God of peace.

2. He desires that these saints be properly equipped.

3. He gives God the glory.

c. An exhortation. (22-23)

Hebrews 13:22-23 KJV

(22) And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.

(23) Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you.

1. Paul has said some strong things in this epistle and they should understand that these words are for their own good.

2. Paul says the Timothy is coming.

3. Paul hopes to come with him.

d. Final greetings and benediction. (24-25)

Hebrews 13:24-25 KJV

(24) Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.

(25) Grace be with you all. Amen.

1. Paul gives his regards.

2. The Italian saints send their regards.

3. Grace be with you all.

Conclusion:

2. It is our hope that the readers of this epistle heeded it words.

3. Sadly not long after this epistle was written the church plummeted into apostasy.