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Text -- Hebrews 13:21-25 (NET)

Strongs On/Off
Context
13:21 equip you with every good thing to do his will, working in us what is pleasing before him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever. Amen. 13:22 Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, bear with my message of exhortation, for in fact I have written to you briefly. 13:23 You should know that our brother Timothy has been released. If he comes soon, he will be with me when I see you. 13:24 Greetings to all your leaders and all the saints. Those from Italy send you greetings. 13:25 Grace be with you all.
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Names, People and Places, Dictionary Themes and Topics

Names, People and Places:
 · Italy a country west of Greece, whose capital is Rome
 · Timothy a young man of Lystra who travelled with Paul and to whom two epistles were addressed


Dictionary Themes and Topics: Timothy | Sanctification | Persecution | Perfection | PROVIDENCE, 1 | PRAYER | PERFECT; PERFECTION | PAUL, THE APOSTLE, 5 | Love | Italy | Intercession | Hebrews, Epistle to | HEBREWS, EPISTLE TO THE | Forbearance | EXHORTATION | Church | Bless | Benedictions | BIBLE, THE, IV CANONICITY | Atonement | more
Table of Contents

Word/Phrase Notes
Robertson , Vincent , Wesley , JFB , Clarke , Calvin , Defender , TSK

Word/Phrase Notes
Barnes , Poole , PBC , Haydock , Gill

Verse Notes / Footnotes
NET Notes , Geneva Bible

Verse Range Notes
TSK Synopsis , Combined Bible , Maclaren , MHCC , Matthew Henry , Barclay , Constable , College

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Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per phrase)

Robertson: Heb 13:21 - -- Make you perfect ( katartisai ). First aorist active optative of katartizō , to equip, as in Heb 10:5. A wish for the future. See 1Co 1:10; 2Co 13:...

Make you perfect ( katartisai ).

First aorist active optative of katartizō , to equip, as in Heb 10:5. A wish for the future. See 1Co 1:10; 2Co 13:11; 2Ti 3:17.

Robertson: Heb 13:21 - -- Working in us ( poiōn en hemin ). "Doing in us."Some MSS. read "in you."

Working in us ( poiōn en hemin ).

"Doing in us."Some MSS. read "in you."

Robertson: Heb 13:21 - -- Well-pleasing ( euareston ). Compound adjective (eu ,arestos ). Usually with the dative (Rom 12:2), here with enōpion autou more like the Hebre...

Well-pleasing ( euareston ).

Compound adjective (eu ,arestos ). Usually with the dative (Rom 12:2), here with enōpion autou more like the Hebrew. This is one of the noblest doxologies in the N.T.

Robertson: Heb 13:22 - -- Bear with ( anechesthe ). Present middle imperative (some MSS. have anechesthai , infinitive) of anechō with the ablative, "hold yourselves back ...

Bear with ( anechesthe ).

Present middle imperative (some MSS. have anechesthai , infinitive) of anechō with the ablative, "hold yourselves back from"as in Col 3:13.

Robertson: Heb 13:22 - -- The word of exhortation ( tou logou tēs paraklēseōs ). His description of the entire Epistle. It certainly is that, a powerful appeal in fact.

The word of exhortation ( tou logou tēs paraklēseōs ).

His description of the entire Epistle. It certainly is that, a powerful appeal in fact.

Robertson: Heb 13:22 - -- I have written ( epesteila ). First aorist active indicative (epistolary aorist) of epistellō , old word to send a letter (epistolē ) as in Act ...

I have written ( epesteila ).

First aorist active indicative (epistolary aorist) of epistellō , old word to send a letter (epistolē ) as in Act 15:20.

Robertson: Heb 13:22 - -- In few words ( dia bracheōn ). Common Greek idiom, here only in N.T. (from brachus , brief, short). Cf. di' oligōn egrapsa in 1Pe 5:12.

In few words ( dia bracheōn ).

Common Greek idiom, here only in N.T. (from brachus , brief, short). Cf. di' oligōn egrapsa in 1Pe 5:12.

Robertson: Heb 13:23 - -- Hath been set at liberty ( apolelumenon ). Perfect passive participle of apoluō , to set free, in indirect discourse after ginōskete . Possibly f...

Hath been set at liberty ( apolelumenon ).

Perfect passive participle of apoluō , to set free, in indirect discourse after ginōskete . Possibly from prison if he came to Rome at Paul’ s request (2Ti 4:11, 2Ti 4:21).

Robertson: Heb 13:23 - -- Shortly ( tacheion ). Same comparative as in Heb 13:19, "sooner"than I expect (?).

Shortly ( tacheion ).

Same comparative as in Heb 13:19, "sooner"than I expect (?).

Robertson: Heb 13:24 - -- They of Italy ( hoi apo tēs Italias ). Either those with the author in Italy or those who have come from Italy to the author outside of Italy.

They of Italy ( hoi apo tēs Italias ).

Either those with the author in Italy or those who have come from Italy to the author outside of Italy.

Vincent: Heb 13:22 - -- Suffer the word of exhortation ( ἀνέχεσθε τοῦ λόγου τῆς παρακλήσεως ) For " suffer," rend. " bear with...

Suffer the word of exhortation ( ἀνέχεσθε τοῦ λόγου τῆς παρακλήσεως )

For " suffer," rend. " bear with." See Act 18:14; 2Co 11:1; 2Ti 4:3. Do not become impatient at my counsels in this letter. The word of exhortation refers to the entire epistle which he regards as hortatory rather than didactic or consolatory. The phrase only in Act 13:15.

Vincent: Heb 13:22 - -- I have written a letter unto you ( ἐπέστειλα ὑμῖν ) A.V. supplies a letter . Rend. " I have written unto you." The verb on...

I have written a letter unto you ( ἐπέστειλα ὑμῖν )

A.V. supplies a letter . Rend. " I have written unto you." The verb only here, Act 15:20; Act 21:25. Lit. to send , not letters only. Sometimes with ἐπιστολαὶ or ἐπιστολὰς letters added, as Neh 6:19; 1 Macc. 12:7. In N.T. always of sending a letter.

Vincent: Heb 13:22 - -- In a few words ( διὰ βραχέων ) There is a suggestion of apology. Do not grow impatient. The letter is short. The phrase N.T.o , bu...

In a few words ( διὰ βραχέων )

There is a suggestion of apology. Do not grow impatient. The letter is short. The phrase N.T.o , but comp. δἰ ὀλίγων , 1Pe 5:12, and ἐν ὀλίγῳ briefly , Eph 3:3.

Vincent: Heb 13:23 - -- Our brother Timothy ( τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν Τιμόθεον ) Paul's habit, when using ὁ ἀδελφός brother wi...

Our brother Timothy ( τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν Τιμόθεον )

Paul's habit, when using ὁ ἀδελφός brother with a proper name, is to put the proper name first. See Rom 16:23; 1Co 1:1; 1Co 16:12; 2Co 1:1; 2Co 2:13; Phi 2:25.

Vincent: Heb 13:23 - -- Set at liberty ( ἀπολελυμένον ) Nothing is known of the fact referred to. Ἁπολύειν of releasing from confinement, Ma...

Set at liberty ( ἀπολελυμένον )

Nothing is known of the fact referred to. Ἁπολύειν of releasing from confinement, Mat 27:15; Joh 19:10; Act 3:13; Act 4:21, Act 4:23; Act 5:40.

Vincent: Heb 13:24 - -- They of Italy ( οἱ ἀπὸ τῆς Ἱταλίας ) This may mean, " those who are in Italy send greeting from Italy" ; or, " those o...

They of Italy ( οἱ ἀπὸ τῆς Ἱταλίας )

This may mean, " those who are in Italy send greeting from Italy" ; or, " those of Italy (Italian Christians with the writer at the time) send greeting' from the place at which the letter is being written. See Introduction. The phrase affords no reliable indication as to the residence of the persons addressed.

Wesley: Heb 13:22 - -- Addressed to you in this letter, which, though longer than my usual letters, is yet contained in few words, considering the copiousness of the subject...

Addressed to you in this letter, which, though longer than my usual letters, is yet contained in few words, considering the copiousness of the subject.

Wesley: Heb 13:23 - -- To me.

To me.

Wesley: Heb 13:25 - -- - Grace be with you all - St. Paul's usual benediction. God apply it to our hearts!

- Grace be with you all - St. Paul's usual benediction. God apply it to our hearts!

JFB: Heb 13:21 - -- Properly said of healing a rent; join you together in perfect harmony [BENGEL].

Properly said of healing a rent; join you together in perfect harmony [BENGEL].

JFB: Heb 13:21 - -- (Heb 10:36); rather as Greek, "doing in you." Whatever good we do, God does in us.

(Heb 10:36); rather as Greek, "doing in you." Whatever good we do, God does in us.

JFB: Heb 13:21 - -- (Isa 53:10; Eph 5:10).

JFB: Heb 13:21 - -- "God doing (working) in you that . . . through Jesus Christ" (Phi 1:11).

"God doing (working) in you that . . . through Jesus Christ" (Phi 1:11).

JFB: Heb 13:21 - -- To Christ. He closes as he began (Heb 1:1-14), with giving glory to Christ.

To Christ. He closes as he began (Heb 1:1-14), with giving glory to Christ.

JFB: Heb 13:22 - -- The Hebrews not being the section of the Church assigned to Paul (but the Gentiles), he uses gentle entreaty, rather than authoritative command.

The Hebrews not being the section of the Church assigned to Paul (but the Gentiles), he uses gentle entreaty, rather than authoritative command.

JFB: Heb 13:22 - -- Compared with what might be said on so important a subject. Few, in an Epistle which is more of a treatise than an Epistle (compare 1Pe 5:12). On the ...

Compared with what might be said on so important a subject. Few, in an Epistle which is more of a treatise than an Epistle (compare 1Pe 5:12). On the seeming inconsistency with Gal 6:11, compare Note, see on Gal 6:11.

JFB: Heb 13:23 - -- So Paul, 1Co 4:17; 2Co 1:1; Col 1:1; 1Th 3:2.

JFB: Heb 13:23 - -- From prison. So Aristarchus was imprisoned with Paul. BIRKS translates, "dismissed," "sent away," namely, on a mission to Greece, as Paul promised (Ph...

From prison. So Aristarchus was imprisoned with Paul. BIRKS translates, "dismissed," "sent away," namely, on a mission to Greece, as Paul promised (Phi 2:19). However, some kind of previous detention is implied before his being let go to Philippi. Paul, though now at large, was still in Italy, whence he sends the salutations of Italian Christians (Heb 13:24), waiting for Timothy to join him, so as to start for Jerusalem: we know from 1Ti 1:3, he and Timothy were together at Ephesus after his departing from Italy eastward. He probably left Timothy there and went to Philippi as he had promised. Paul implies that if Timothy shall not come shortly, he will start on his journey to the Hebrews at once.

JFB: Heb 13:24 - -- The Scriptures are intended for all, young and old, not merely for ministers. Compare the different classes addressed, "wives," Eph 5:22; little child...

The Scriptures are intended for all, young and old, not merely for ministers. Compare the different classes addressed, "wives," Eph 5:22; little children, 1Jo 2:18; "all," 1Pe 3:8; 1Pe 5:5. He says here "all," for the Hebrews whom he addresses were not all in one place, though the Jerusalem Hebrews are chiefly addressed.

JFB: Heb 13:24 - -- Not merely the brethren at Rome, but of other places in Italy.

Not merely the brethren at Rome, but of other places in Italy.

JFB: Heb 13:25 - -- Paul's characteristic salutation in every one of his other thirteen Epistles, as he says himself, 1Co 16:21, 1Co 16:23; Col 4:18; 2Th 3:17. It is foun...

Paul's characteristic salutation in every one of his other thirteen Epistles, as he says himself, 1Co 16:21, 1Co 16:23; Col 4:18; 2Th 3:17. It is found in no Epistle written by any other apostle in Paul's lifetime. It is used in Rev 22:21, written subsequently, and in CLEMENT OF ROME. Being known to be his badge, it is not used by others in his lifetime. The Greek here is, "The grace (namely, of our Lord Jesus Christ) be with you all."

Clarke: Heb 13:21 - -- Make you perfect - Καταρτισια ὑμας· Put you completely in joint. See the note on 2Co 13:9, where the meaning of the original word...

Make you perfect - Καταρτισια ὑμας· Put you completely in joint. See the note on 2Co 13:9, where the meaning of the original word is largely considered. From the following terms we see what the apostle meant by the perfection for which he prays. They were to do the will of God in every good work, from God working in them that which is well pleasing in his sight

1.    This necessarily implies a complete change in the whole soul, that God may be well pleased with whatsoever he sees in it; and this supposes its being cleansed from all sin, for God’ s sight cannot be pleased with any thing that is unholy

2.    This complete inward purity is to produce an outward conformity to God’ s will, so they were to be made perfect in every good work

3.    The perfection within and the perfection without were to be produced by the blood of the everlasting covenant; for although God is love, yet it is not consistent with his justice or holiness to communicate any good to mankind but through his Son, and through him as having died for the offenses of the human race

Clarke: Heb 13:21 - -- To whom be glory for ever - As God does all in, by, and through Christ Jesus, to him be the honor of his own work ascribed through time and eternity...

To whom be glory for ever - As God does all in, by, and through Christ Jesus, to him be the honor of his own work ascribed through time and eternity. Amen.

Clarke: Heb 13:22 - -- Suffer the word of exhortation - Bear the word or doctrine of this exhortation. This seems to be an epithet of this whole epistle: and as the apostl...

Suffer the word of exhortation - Bear the word or doctrine of this exhortation. This seems to be an epithet of this whole epistle: and as the apostle had in it shown the insufficiency of the Levitical system to atone for sin and save the soul; and had proved that it was the design of God that it should be abolished; and had proved also that it was now abolished by the coming of Christ, whom he had shown to be a greater priest than Aaron, higher than all the angels, the only Son of God as to his human nature, and the Creator, Governor, and Judge of all; and that their city was shortly to be destroyed; he might suppose that they would feel prejudiced against him, and thus lose the benefit of his kind intentions toward them; therefore he entreats them to bear the exhortation which, notwithstanding the great extent of the subject, he had included in a short compass

Clarke: Heb 13:22 - -- I have written a letter unto you in few words - Perhaps it would be better to translate δια βραχεων επεστειλα ὑμιν, I have...

I have written a letter unto you in few words - Perhaps it would be better to translate δια βραχεων επεστειλα ὑμιν, I have written to you briefly, as επιστελλειν often signifies simply to write, and this appears to be its meaning here.

Clarke: Heb 13:23 - -- Know ye that our brother Timothy - The word ἡμων, our, which is supplied by our translators, is very probably genuine, as it is found in ACD*...

Know ye that our brother Timothy - The word ἡμων, our, which is supplied by our translators, is very probably genuine, as it is found in ACD*, ten others, the Syriac, Erpen’ s Arabic, the Coptic, Armenian, Slavonic, and Vulgate

Clarke: Heb 13:23 - -- Is set at liberty - Απολελυμενον· Is sent away; for there is no evidence that Timothy had been imprisoned. It is probable that the ap...

Is set at liberty - Απολελυμενον· Is sent away; for there is no evidence that Timothy had been imprisoned. It is probable that the apostle refers here to his being sent into Macedonia, Phi 2:19-24, in order that he might bring the apostle an account of the affairs of the Church in that country. In none of St. Paul’ s epistles, written during his confinement in Rome, does he give any intimation of Timothy’ s imprisonment, although it appears from Phi 1:1; Col 1:1; Phm 1:1; that he was with Paul during the greatest part of the time

Clarke: Heb 13:23 - -- With whom, if he come shortly, I will see you - Therefore Paul himself, or the writer of this epistle, was now at liberty, as he had the disposal of...

With whom, if he come shortly, I will see you - Therefore Paul himself, or the writer of this epistle, was now at liberty, as he had the disposal of his person and time in his own power. Some suppose that Timothy did actually visit Paul about this time, and that both together visited the Churches in Judea.

Clarke: Heb 13:24 - -- Salute all them that have the rule over you - Salute all your leaders or guides, τους ἡγουμενους ὑμων . See on Heb 13:7 (note...

Salute all them that have the rule over you - Salute all your leaders or guides, τους ἡγουμενους ὑμων . See on Heb 13:7 (note) and Heb 13:17 (note)

Clarke: Heb 13:24 - -- And all the saints - All the Christians; for this is the general meaning of the term in most parts of St. Paul’ s writings. But a Christian was...

And all the saints - All the Christians; for this is the general meaning of the term in most parts of St. Paul’ s writings. But a Christian was then a saint, i.e. by profession a holy person; and most of the primitive Christians were actually such. But in process of time the term was applied to all that bore the Christian name; as elect, holy people, sanctified, etc., were to the nation of the Jews, when both their piety and morality were at a very low ebb

Clarke: Heb 13:24 - -- They of Italy salute you - Therefore it is most likely that the writer of this epistle was then in some part of Italy, from which he had not as yet ...

They of Italy salute you - Therefore it is most likely that the writer of this epistle was then in some part of Italy, from which he had not as yet removed after his being released from prison. By they of Italy probably the apostle means the Jew’ s there who had embraced the Christian faith. These salutations show what a brotherly feeling existed in every part of the Christian Church; even those who had not seen each other yet loved one another, and felt deeply interested for each other’ s welfare.

Clarke: Heb 13:25 - -- Grace be with you all - May the Divine favor ever rest upon you and among you; and may you receive, from that source of all good, whatsoever is calc...

Grace be with you all - May the Divine favor ever rest upon you and among you; and may you receive, from that source of all good, whatsoever is calculated to make you wise, holy, useful, and happy! And may you be enabled to persevere in the truth to the end of your lives! Amen. May it be so! May God seal the prayer by giving the blessings

The subscriptions to this epistle are, as in other cases, various and contradictory

The Versions are as follow: -

The Epistle to the Hebrews was written from Roman Italy, and sent by the hand of Timothy. - Syriac

Vulgate nothing, in the present printed copies

It was written from Italy by Timothy: with the assistance of God, disposing every thing right, the fourteen epistles of the blessed Paul are completed, according to the copy from which they have been transcribed

May the Lord extend his benedictions to us. Amen. - Arabic

The Epistle to the Hebrews is completed. The end. - Aethiopic

Written in Italy, and sent by Timothy. - Coptic

The Manuscripts, and ancient editions taken from MSS., are not more to be relied on

To the Hebrews, written from Rome. - Codex Alexandrinus

The epistles of Saint Paul the apostle arc finished. - Colophon, at the end of this epistle; in one of the first printed Bibles; and in an ancient MS. of the Vulgate in my own collection

The end of the Epistle to the Hebrews. - Greek Text of the Complutensian Edition

The Epistle of the blessed Paul to the Hebrews is finished. - Latin Text of ditto

To the Hebrews. - The Epistle of Paul the apostle to the Hebrews. - The Epistle to the Hebrews, written from Italy. - From Athens. - From Italy by Timothy. - Written in the Hebrew tongue, etc. - Various MSS

Written to the Hebrews from Italy by Timothy. - Common Greek Text

That it was neither written from Athens, nor in the Hebrew tongue, is more than probable; and that it was not sent by Timothy, is evident from Heb 13:23. For the author, time, place, and people to whom sent, see the Introduction.

Calvin: Heb 13:21 - -- 21.=== To do his will, === etc. He now gives a definition of good works by laying down God’s will as the rule; for he thus intimates, that no wo...

21.=== To do his will, === etc. He now gives a definition of good works by laying down God’s will as the rule; for he thus intimates, that no works are to be deemed good, but such as are agreeable to the will of God, as Paul also teaches us in Rom 12:2, and in many other places. Let us then remember, that it is the perfection of a good and holy life, when we live in obedience to his will. The clause which next follows is explanatory, working (or doing) in you what is well pleasing in his sight. He had spoken of that will which is made known in the Law; he now shows, that in vain is obtruded on God what he has not commanded; for he values the decrees of his own will far more than all the inventions of the world.

===Through Jesus Christ, === etc. This may be explained in two ways, — “Working through Jesus Christ”, or, “Well­pleasing through Jesus Christ.” Both senses are suitable. For we know that the spirit of regeneration and also all graces are bestowed on us through Christ; and then it is certain, that as nothing can proceed from us absolutely perfect, nothing can be acceptable to God without that pardon which we obtain through Christ. Thus it comes, that our works, performed by the odor of Christ’s grace, emit a sweet fragrance in God’s presence, while otherwise they would have a fetid smell. I am disposed to include both meanings.

===To whom be glory, === etc. This I refer to Christ. And as he here ascribes to Christ what peculiarly belongs to God alone, he thus bears a clear testimony to his divinity; but still if anyone prefers to explain this of the Father, I do not object; though I embrace the other sense, as being the most obvious.

Calvin: Heb 13:22 - -- 22.=== And I beseech you, === etc. Some understand this as though he was soliciting them to hear him; but I take another view; for he mentions, as I...

22.=== And I beseech you, === etc. Some understand this as though he was soliciting them to hear him; but I take another view; for he mentions, as I think, that he had written in a few words, or briefly, in order that he might not appear as though he wished to lessen in any degree the ordinary practice of teaching. Let us hence learn that the Scripture has not been committed to us in order to silence the voice of pastors, and that we are not to be fastidious when the same exhortations often sound in our ears; for the holy Spirit has so regulated the writings which he has dictated to the Prophets and the Apostles, that he detracts nothing from the order instituted by himself; and the order is, that constant exhortations should be heard in the Church from the mouth of pastors. And probably he recommends the word of exhortation for this reason, that though men are by nature anxious to learn, they yet prefer to hear something new rather than to be reminded of things known and often heard before. Besides, as they indulge themselves in sloth, they can ill bear to be stimulated and reproved.

Calvin: Heb 13:23 - -- 23.=== Know ye that our brother, === etc. Since the termination of the Greek verbγινώσκετε, will admit of either renderings, we may read,...

23.=== Know ye that our brother, === etc. Since the termination of the Greek verbγινώσκετε, will admit of either renderings, we may read, “Ye know,” or, “Know ye;” but I prefer the latter reading, though I do not reject the other. 293 The probability is, that he was informing the Jews on the other side of the sea of what they did not know. Now, if this Timothy was the renowned companion of Paul, which I am inclined to think, it is very probable that either Luke or Clement was the author of this Epistle. Paul, indeed, more usually calls him his son; and then what immediately follows does not apply to Paul; for it appears that the writer was at liberty and at his own disposal; and besides, that he was then anywhere rather than at Rome; nay, it is very probable, that he was going round through various cities, and was then preparing to pass over the sea. Now all these particulars might have been suitable to the circumstances either of Luke or of Clement after the death of Paul. 294

Calvin: Heb 13:24 - -- 24.Salute, === etc. As he writes his Epistle generally to the Hebrews, it is strange that he bids some, separate from the rest, to be saluted; but h...

24.Salute, === etc. As he writes his Epistle generally to the Hebrews, it is strange that he bids some, separate from the rest, to be saluted; but he sends this salutation, as I think, more particularly to the rulers, as a mark of honor, that he might conciliate them, and gently lead them to assent to his doctrine. And he adds, —

===And all the saints He either means the faithful from among the Gentiles, and refers to them that both Jews and Gentiles might learn to cultivate unity among themselves; or his object was to intimate, that they who first received the Epistle, were to communicate it to others.

END OF THE COMMENTARIES ON THE EPISTLE
TO THE HEBREWS

Defender: Heb 13:21 - -- Note Eph 2:10; Phi 2:13.

Defender: Heb 13:21 - -- Compare Heb 13:16."

Compare Heb 13:16."

Defender: Heb 13:24 - -- Note here that, contrary to the usual relationships in the epistles, Gentiles are greeting Jews."

Note here that, contrary to the usual relationships in the epistles, Gentiles are greeting Jews."

TSK: Heb 13:21 - -- Make : Heb 12:23; Deu 32:4; Psa 138:8; Joh 17:23; Eph 3:16-19; Col 1:9-12, Col 4:12; 1Th 3:13, 1Th 5:23; 2Th 2:17; 1Pe 5:10 every : 2Co 9:8; Eph 2:10;...

TSK: Heb 13:22 - -- suffer : Heb 13:1-3, Heb 13:12-16, Heb 2:1, Heb 3:1, Heb 3:12, Heb 3:13, Heb 4:1, Heb 4:11, Heb 6:11, Heb 6:12, 10:19-39; Heb 12:1, Heb 12:2, Heb 12:1...

TSK: Heb 13:23 - -- brother : Act 16:1-3; 1Th 3:2; Phm 1:1 is set : 1Ti 6:12; 2Ti 1:8; Rev 7:14 I will : Rom 15:25, Rom 15:28; Phm 1:22

TSK: Heb 13:24 - -- Salute : Rom. 16:1-16 the rule : Heb 13:7, Heb 13:17 and all : 2Co 1:1, 2Co 13:13; Phi 1:1, Phi 4:22; Col 1:2; Phm 1:5 They : Rom 16:21-23 Italy : Act...

Salute : Rom. 16:1-16

the rule : Heb 13:7, Heb 13:17

and all : 2Co 1:1, 2Co 13:13; Phi 1:1, Phi 4:22; Col 1:2; Phm 1:5

They : Rom 16:21-23

Italy : Act 18:2, Act 27:1

TSK: Heb 13:25 - -- Rom 1:7, Rom 16:20,Rom 16:24; Eph 6:24; 2Ti 4:22; Tit 3:15; Rev 22:21

collapse all
Commentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per Verse)

Barnes: Heb 13:21 - -- Make you perfect - The apostle here does not affirm that they were then perfect, or that they would be in this life. The word used here - κα...

Make you perfect - The apostle here does not affirm that they were then perfect, or that they would be in this life. The word used here - καταρτιζω katartizō - means to make fully ready; to put in full order; to make complete. The meaning here is, that Paul prayed that God would fully endow them with whatever grace was necessary to do his will and to keep his commandments; see the word explained in the notes on Heb 11:3. It is an appropriate prayer to be offered at all times, and by all who love the church, that God would make all his people perfectly qualified to do all his will.

Working in you - Margin, "Doing."The idea here is, that the only hope that they would do the will of God was, that he would, by his own agency, cause them to do what was well-pleasing in his sight; compare notes on Phi 2:12. It is not from any expectation that man would do it himself.

Through Jesus Christ - The idea is, that God does not directly, and by his own immediate agency, convert and sanctify the heart, but it is through the gospel of Christ, and all good influences on the soul must be expected through the Saviour.

To whom be glory forever and ever - That is, to Christ; for so the connection evidently demands. It is not uncommon for the apostle Paul to introduce doxologies in this way in the midst of a letter; see the notes, Rom 9:5. It was common among the Jews, as it is now in the writings and conversation of the Muslims, when the name of God was mentioned to accompany it with an expression of praise.

Barnes: Heb 13:22 - -- Suffer the word of exhortation - Referring to the arguments and counsels in this whole Epistle, which is in fact a practical exhortation to per...

Suffer the word of exhortation - Referring to the arguments and counsels in this whole Epistle, which is in fact a practical exhortation to perseverance in adhering to the Christian religion amidst all the temptations which existed to apostasy.

For I have written a letter unto you in few words - This does not mean that this Epistle is short compared with the others that the author had written, for most of the Epistles of Paul are shorter than this. But it means, that it was brief compared with the importance and difficulty of the subjects of which he had treated. The topics introduced would have allowed a much more extended discussion; but in handling them he had made use of as few words as possible. No one can deny this who considers the sententious manner of this Epistle. As an illustration of this, perhaps we may remark that it is easy to expand the thoughts of this Epistle into ample volumes of exposition, and that in fact it is difficult to give an explanation of it without a commentary that shall greatly surpass in extent the text. None can doubt, also, that the author of this Epistle could have himself greatly expanded the thoughts and the Illustrations if he had chosen. It is with reference to such considerations, probably, that he says that the Epistle was brief.

Barnes: Heb 13:23 - -- Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty - Or, is sent away. So it is rendered by Prof. Stuart and others. On the meaning of this, an...

Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty - Or, is sent away. So it is rendered by Prof. Stuart and others. On the meaning of this, and its importance in determining who was the author of the Epistle, see the Introduction section 3, (5) 4, and Prof. Stuart’ s Introduction , section 19. This is a strong circumstance showing that Paul was the author of the Epistle, for from the first acquaintance of Timothy with Paul he is represented as his constant companion, and spoken of as a brother; 2Co 1:1 note; Phi 1:1 note; Col 1:1 note; Phil. 1 note. There is no other one of the apostles who would so naturally have used this term respecting Timothy, and this kind mention is made of him here because he was so dear to the heart of the writer, and because he felt that they to whom he wrote would also feel an interest in his circumstances. As to the meaning of the word rendered "set at liberty"- ἀπολελυμένον apolelumenon - there has been much difference of opinion whether it means "set at liberty from confinement,"or, "sent away on some message to some other place."That the latter is the meaning of the expression appears probable from these considerations.

\caps1 (1) t\caps0 he connection seems to demand it. The writer speaks of him as if he were now away, and as if he hoped that he might soon return. "With whom, if he come shortly, I will see you."This is language which would be used rather of one who had been sent on some embassy than of one who was just released from prison. At all events, he was at this time away, and there was some expectation that he might soon return. But on the supposition that the expression relates to release from imprisonment, there would be an entire incongruity in the language. It is not, as we should then suppose, "our brother Timothy is now released from prison, and therefore I will come soon with him and see you;"but, "our brother Timothy is now sent away, and if he return soon I will come with him to you."

\caps1 (2) i\caps0 n Phi 2:19, Phi 2:23, Paul, then a prisoner at Rome, speaks of the hope which he entertained that he would be able to send Timothy to them as soon as he should know how it would go with him. He designed to retain him until that point was settled, as his presence with him would be important until then, and then to send him to give consolation to the Philippians, and to look into the condition of the church. Now the passage before us agrees well with the supposition that that event had occurred - that Paul had ascertained with sufficient clearness that he would be released, so that he might be permitted yet to visit the Hebrew Christians, that he had sent Timothy to Philippi and was waiting for his return; that as soon as he should return he would be prepared to visit them; and that in the mean time while Timothy was absent, he wrote to them this Epistle.

\caps1 (3) t\caps0 he supposition agrees well with the meaning of the word used here - ἀπολύω apoluō . It denotes properly, to let loose from: to loosen; to unbind; to release; to let go free; to put away or divorce; to dismiss simply, or let go, or send away; see Mat 14:15, Mat 14:22-23; Mat 15:32, Mat 15:39; Luk 9:12, et al.; compare Robinson’ s Lexicon and Stuart’ s Introduction , section 19. The meaning, then, I take to be this, that Timothy was then sent away on some important embassage; that the apostle expected his speedy return; and that then he trusted that he would be able with him to visit those to whom this Epistle was written.

Barnes: Heb 13:24 - -- Salute all them - see the notes on Rom 16:3 ff. It was customary for the apostle Paul to close his epistles with an affectionate salutation. ...

Salute all them - see the notes on Rom 16:3 ff. It was customary for the apostle Paul to close his epistles with an affectionate salutation.

That have the rule over you - notes, Heb 13:7, 17. None are mentioned by name, as is usual in the Epistles of Paul. The cause of this omission is unknown. "And all the saints."The common name given to Christians in the Scriptures; see the notes on Rom 1:7.

They of Italy salute you - The saints or Christians in Italy. Showing that the writer of the Epistle was then in Italy. He was probably in Rome; see the introduction, section 4.

Barnes: Heb 13:25 - -- Grace be with you all - notes, Rom 16:20, Rom 16:24. The subscription at the close of the Epistle "written to the Hebrews from Italy by Timothy...

Grace be with you all - notes, Rom 16:20, Rom 16:24.

The subscription at the close of the Epistle "written to the Hebrews from Italy by Timothy,"like the other subscriptions, is of no authority; see notes at the end of 1 Cor. It is demonstrably erroneous here, for it is expressly said by the author of the Epistle that at the time he wrote it, Timothy was absent; Heb 13:23. In regard to the time and place of writing it, see the Introduction, section 4.

At the close of this exposition, it is not improper to refer the reader to the remarks on its design at the end of the introduction, section 6. Having passed through the exposition, we may see more clearly the importance of the views there presented. There is no book of the New Testament more important than this, and of course none whose want would be more perceptible in the canon of the Scriptures. Every reader of the Old Testament needs such a guide as this Epistle, written by some one who had an intimate acquaintance from childhood with the Jewish system; who had all the advantages of the most able and faithful instruction, and who was under the influence of inspiration, to make us acquainted with the true nature of those institutions Nothing was more important than to settle the principles in regard to the nature of the Jewish economy; to show what was typical, and how those institutions were the means of introducing a far more perfect system - the system of the Christian religion.

If we have right feelings, we shall have sincere gratitude to God that he caused the Christian religion to be prefigured by a system in itself so magnificent and grand as that of the Jewish, and higher gratitude for that sublime system of religion of which the Jewish, with all its splendor, was only the shadow. There was much that was beautiful, cheering, and sublime in the Jewish system. There was much that was grand and awful in the giving of the Law, and much that was imposing in its ceremonies. In its palmy and pure days, it was incomparably the purest and noblest system of religion then on earth. It taught the knowledge of the one true God; inculcated a pure system of morals; preserved the record of the truth on the earth, and held up constantly before man the hope of a better system still in days to come. But it was expensive, burdensome, precise in its prescriptions, and wearisome in its ceremonies; Act 15:10. It was adapted to one people - a people who occupied a small territory, and who could conveniently assemble at the central place of their worship three times in a year. It was not a system adapted to the whole world, nor was it designed for the whole world. When the Saviour came, therefore, to introduce whom was the design of the Jewish economy, it ceased as a matter of course. The Jewish altars were soon thrown down; the temple was razed to the ground, and the city of their solemnities was destroyed. The religion of the Hebrews passed away to be revived no more in its splendor and power, and it has never lived since, except as an empty form.

This Epistle teaches us why it passed away, and why it can never he restored. It is the true key with which to unlock the Old Testament; and with these views, we may remark in conclusion, that he who would understand the Bible thoroughly should make himself familiar with this Epistle; that the canon of Scripture would be incomplete without it; and that, to one who wishes to understand the Revelation which God has given, there is no portion of the volume whose loss would be a more irreparable calamity than that of the Epistle to the Hebrews.

Poole: Heb 13:21 - -- Make you perfect in every good work to do his will: may this God dispose, incline, and fit you for, may he finish and perfect in you, grace to perfor...

Make you perfect in every good work to do his will: may this God dispose, incline, and fit you for, may he finish and perfect in you, grace to perform all the forementioned duties, and every other good work, which he enjoineth on you towards God, one another, and all men, 2Co 13:9 Eph 4:12 Tit 3:14 1Pe 4:2 5:10 , according to his written will and law, Eph 2:10 .

Working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ: working in you by his Spirit continually, that all these good works may satisfy his expectation, be a sweet savour in his nostrils, and so pleasing in his sight, that his soul may delight in them, Phi 2:13 Col 1:9,10 ; that God’ s good-will may return unto them, and he may reward them according to their works, Heb 11:5,6 ; while all is rendered by Jesus Christ, sprinkled with his blood, and perfumed with his incense, Heb 10:19-22 . As they are to have all done through Christ, so through his merit and intercession the apostle begs all this from the Father for them.

To whom be glory for ever and ever to this God the Father, in the Son, and by the Spirit, working all this good in them and for them, be really, truly, heartily, and perpetually, throughout all ages, ascribed the honour and glory due to him for the glorious manifestation of his perfections in them, Eph 3:21 Phi 4:20 2Pe 3:18 Rev 4:11 5:13 . The firm seal of this, from his believing heart, is his Amen, longing for the addition of God’ s Amen, so be it in heaven, to his on earth.

Poole: Heb 13:22 - -- The apostle now drawing to a close, desires them candidly to accept his Epistle; that, considering their relation to him as Christians and Hebrews, ...

The apostle now drawing to a close, desires them candidly to accept his Epistle; that, considering their relation to him as Christians and Hebrews, he doth affectionately entreat them, that they would fully receive, entertain, and hold fast, as well as bear with, or suffer, all the doctrine, reproof, exhortation, and consolation, even his whole discourse to them in this Epistle, which

the word implies. He had so comprised, summed up, and delivered the revelation of the doctrine of Christ, testified by Moses and the prophets, in a very few words, and sent them kindly and affectionately, in the form of an epistle or letter to them, that it might not be burdensome, either for its matter or length: though how weary are most professing Christians of the shortest heavenly discourse!

Poole: Heb 13:23 - -- He acquaints them with the good news of his dismissing Timothy to them, to acquaint them how it fared with him, as he dismissed and sent Tychicus to...

He acquaints them with the good news of his dismissing Timothy to them, to acquaint them how it fared with him, as he dismissed and sent Tychicus to the Colossians, Col 4:7,8 , Epaphroditus to the Philippians, Phi 2:25,28 , as he intended to have sent Timothy with them, Heb 13:19,23,24 , but he stopped him to see the issue of his appearance before Nero Caesar; which being over, he despatched him with an account of it to these Hebrews, and the rest of the churches, and signifieth his purpose, that if he quickly returns from them again, then he would visit them together with him. That the word apolelumenov noteth, or signifieth, the dismission of a person about business, is seen, Act 13:3 . To which interpretation the subscription of the Epistle inclines; and the Scripture is silent of any troubles or restraint of Timothy at all, Phi 2:19,20 .

Poole: Heb 13:24 - -- He sends his salutations, which were good wishes and prayers for the peace, prosperity, health, and happiness of their souls and bodies, and success...

He sends his salutations, which were good wishes and prayers for the peace, prosperity, health, and happiness of their souls and bodies, and success in all their concernments; first unto their excellent guides and rulers, Heb 13:7,17 , that they may prosper and succeed in their work among the saints; and then unto

the saints themselves, conveying the gospel peace, according to Christ’ s command, Mat 10:12 Luk 10:5 . Which saints were all those Hebrews dispersed in several places, and there convening, and maintaining church society; and to whose hand the Epistle first came, they were to receive the salutations themselves, and transmit them to others. With his own he transmits the salutations of all that part of the church of Christ which was in Italy to them. Which salutations, though commonly abused, yet are of great weight and worth where communicated and received by the churches in which the Holy Spirit abideth.

Poole: Heb 13:25 - -- He closeth all with his wonted gracious valediction, wherewith he shutteth up all his Epistles, as he testifieth, 2Th 3:17,18 . He, like an apostle ...

He closeth all with his wonted gracious valediction, wherewith he shutteth up all his Epistles, as he testifieth, 2Th 3:17,18 . He, like an apostle influenced by the Divine Spirit, admiring grace vouchsafed to himself, and heartily and fervently wishing it down upon all to whom he writeth, even all the spiritual fruits of God’ s grace and love in Jesus Christ, from election to salvation. And he sealeth up his desire, prayer, and declaration of this, upon them

all who were the true subjects of it, with his

Amen Even so let the whole earth be filled with the glory of thy grace, O Trinity of relations in Unity of essence, from henceforth and for ever. Amen.

Written to the Hebrews from Italy by Timothy.

PBC: Heb 13:21 - -- " perfect" This word " perfect" does not mean sinless. It doesn’t even mean mature as the word is sometimes used in the bible- what the word does ...

" perfect"

This word " perfect" does not mean sinless. It doesn’t even mean mature as the word is sometimes used in the bible- what the word does mean is repair. The same word in Mt 4:21 means " mending" -now what is wrong with their nets? Holes had come in their nets and when they cast them out into the sea over a school of fish and began to draw it to the boat, all the fish would escape. So, they were mending their nets. But the same word is used in Ga 6:1 " restore" -the word restore is the same word as perfect in Heb 13:21. What is wrong with the brother? Sin’s got him. He’s been overtaken in a fault, he’s laying under sin and he’s lost his usefulness to the church of God. He needs to be restored. He needs to be repaired and God enjoins us to help that brother be recovered. Now, I realize that when you go to help a brother that’s caught under sin that only God can deliver him, but God is pleased to use such feeble instruments as us and even gives us a job to do in that but I want you to understand what the word means -it means to repair.

430

Haydock: Heb 13:20-21 - -- Who brought, or raised from the dead, the great pastor of the sheep, of all the faithful, Jesus Christ, in the blood of the everlasting testament:...

Who brought, or raised from the dead, the great pastor of the sheep, of all the faithful, Jesus Christ, in the blood of the everlasting testament: in the testament that is to last for ever, not for a time, like the former testament made to the people of Israel. These words, in the blood, may either be joined with brought from the dead his son, as man, by the merits of his blood, which he had shed on the cross, as it is said Philippians ii. 8. Or they may be joined with the great pastor, and then the sense will be, that God raised Jesus Christ, who, by his blood shed on the cross, became the great shepherd of all the faithful. Working in you by his grace every good work, &c. (Witham)

Haydock: Heb 13:22 - -- Bear with the word of consolation, with what I have written to exhort and comfort you in a very few words, considering the importance of the subject,...

Bear with the word of consolation, with what I have written to exhort and comfort you in a very few words, considering the importance of the subject, and the sublime mysteries. (Witham)

Haydock: Heb 13:23 - -- Our brother, Timothy, is set at liberty. From which we may conjecture that Timothy had been a prisoner, though it is not known where, nor on what oc...

Our brother, Timothy, is set at liberty. From which we may conjecture that Timothy had been a prisoner, though it is not known where, nor on what occasion. (Witham)

Gill: Heb 13:21 - -- Make you perfect in every good work to do his will,.... The Alexandrian copy reads, "in every good work and word"; as in 2Th 2:17 every good work is t...

Make you perfect in every good work to do his will,.... The Alexandrian copy reads, "in every good work and word"; as in 2Th 2:17 every good work is to be done: a good work is what is done in obedience to the command of God, and in faith, and from a principle of love, in the name and strength of Christ, and with a view to the glory of God; and every such work should be diligently attended to; such as concern God, and are of a moral nature, or of positive institution; and such as concern each other, whether as men or Christians: and the will of God is the rule of every good work, both as to matter and manner; whatever is not agreeably to the revealed will of God, let it have ever such a show of religion and holiness in it, it is not a good work; continuance in the performance of good works, and the perfection of them, are things to be desired of God; it requires grace to perform good works, and more grace to abound in them, and to keep men from being weary of well doing; and though the best of works are imperfect, yet perfection in them is desirable, and it is God alone that can make the saints perfect in any sense; see 1Pe 5:10. The Arabic and Ethiopic versions render it, "strengthen you", or "confirm you"; saints need to be strengthened with spiritual strength, to perform good works; for they are weak and feeble, and unable of themselves to do anything spiritually good; without Christ they can do nothing, but through him strengthening them, they can do all things; and they have need to be confirmed in them, that they are the will of God, and that it is their duty to regard them. The Vulgate Latin version renders it, "fit you": men are naturally unfit for good works; in order to do them aright, it is necessary that they should have knowledge of the will of God; that they be regenerated and created in Christ; that they be sanctified and cleansed, and so meet for the master's use; that they have the Spirit of God, and strength from Christ; and that they be believers in him: nor is there always a fitness in saints themselves, or a readiness to good works, only when God gives both will and power to do them; wherefore such a petition as this is very proper and pertinent; another follows, or the same carried on, and more largely expressed; though it rather seems to be a distinct one, and that in order to the former:

working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; the good work of grace being necessary to the performance of good works; nor can any man do a good work well, unless he has the good work of grace wrought in him: grace is a work not of man, but of God; it is an internal work, something in a man's heart, and not anything without him, or done by him; and it is a gradual and progressive work; it is carried on by degrees, and is not yet perfect, though it will be. God is continually working in his people, carrying on his work, and will at length perform it; See Gill on Phi 1:6, and this is "well pleasing in his sight"; it is in his sight; it is obvious to his view, when it is not to others, nor to themselves, being the hidden man of the heart; and it is very agreeable to him; it makes men like unto him; hereby they become a suitable habitation for him, and are put into a capacity of serving him; to such he gives more grace, and on that grace he entails glory: and all this is

through Jesus Christ; all the grace necessary for the beginning and carrying on, and finishing of the good work of grace, and for the performance of every good work, comes through the hands of Christ, in whom all fulness of it dwells; and through the blood and intercession of Christ, by virtue of which it is communicated; and all become acceptable to God through him, as the persons of the Lord's people, so the grace that is wrought in them, and the works that are done by them:

to whom be glory for ever and ever, Amen; either to God the Father of Christ, and the Father of mercies, and God of salvation; and as he is the God of peace, and the bringer of Christ from the dead; the appointer, provider, and giver of the great Shepherd; the author and finisher of all good in his people: or to Jesus Christ, the great Shepherd of the sheep, through whom all grace and good things come; to him does this doxology of right belong; he has a glory both as God, and as Mediator; and the glory of both is to be given to him: the glory of his deity, by asserting it; by attributing all divine perfections and works unto him; by worshipping of him, and by ascribing the efficacy of his mediatorial actions to it: and the glory of salvation and redemption is to be given to him, who alone has obtained it; by discarding all other Saviours; by trusting alone in him; by looking to him alone for peace, pardon, justification, sanctification, and eternal life: and this glory should be ascribed continually, for ever and ever, as it will be by angels, and saints to all eternity, The word "Amen" is added, to show that the apostle assented to it, and wished it might be, and that he firmly believed it, and so asserted that it would be; for it is expressive of assent, asseveration, and prayer.

Gill: Heb 13:22 - -- And I beseech you, brethren,.... The apostle closes his epistle to the Hebrews in a very tender and affectionate manner, calling them "brethren", as h...

And I beseech you, brethren,.... The apostle closes his epistle to the Hebrews in a very tender and affectionate manner, calling them "brethren", as he often does; and speaking to them, not in an authoritative way, nor by way of advice, but by entreaty: the reason may be, because he was the apostle of the Gentiles, and because the Jews were not so well pleased with him, on account of his preaching down the ceremonies of the law; though such language is used by him in other epistles; he became all things to all, that he might gain some. The subject matter of his entreaty is, that they would

suffer the word of exhortation; either from one another, as to prayer, to attendance on the word and ordinances, to a regard to their lives and conversations, and to a close adherence to the Gospel, and the profession of it; or from their ministers, their guides, and governors, whose business it was to exhort them to the several duties of religion; or rather from himself; and it designs either the particular exhortation in Heb 12:5 or the continued exhortation to various duties in this chapter; or any, and everyone throughout the epistle: and this shows that the children of God are sometimes heavy and sluggish, and need stirring up; and that there are some things often in exhortations and reproofs which are not so agreeable to the flesh, and yet ought to be taken kindly, and patiently endured: the word may be rendered "consolation", or "solace", as it is by the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions; and may refer to the whole of this epistle, which is of a consolatory nature: this may suggest that these Hebrews were under afflictions, and needed comfort; and yet through unbelief might be tempted to refuse the comfort administered to them; which is too often the case with God's people:

for I have written a letter unto you in few words; or, "I have sent, or, wrote to you in brief"; meaning either the exhortatory part of the epistle, which lay in few words, and chiefly in this chapter; or the whole of the epistle, which was but short in comparison of the length he might have carried it, and as the subject matter of it might seem to require; it treating on the great doctrines of the Gospel, and mysteries of grace; things of the greatest moment and importance, and which might have been largely insisted on; but he had contracted things, and had wrote much in a little; and this he makes a reason why they should suffer or bear with the exhortation given, since it was not pressed with a multitude of words, wearing out their patience.

Gill: Heb 13:23 - -- Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty,.... This is the same person to whom the Apostle Paul wrote two epistles, and whom he often calls ...

Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty,.... This is the same person to whom the Apostle Paul wrote two epistles, and whom he often calls his son, though sometimes his brother, as here, Col 1:1 of him he says, that he was set at liberty, or "dismissed"; either by the apostle, by whom he was sent into some parts, upon some business; or rather was loosed from his bonds, having been a prisoner for the sake of Christ and the Gospel; and, it may be; a fellow prisoner with the apostle, at Rome, as Aristarchus and others were; and this very great and useful person being known, very likely, to the Hebrews, since his mother was a Jewess, and he himself was well reported of by the brethren at Lystra and Iconium, Act 16:1 it was a piece of good news to them to hear of his release:

with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you; by which it seems that Timothy was now absent from the apostle, but that he expected him to come in a short time; when, if he should, they would both come together, and visit the Hebrews; which looks as if the apostle was at liberty himself, or at least had some hopes of his deliverance from prison; but whether he ever had his liberty after this, and saw the Hebrews any more, cannot be said; the contrary seems most probable.

Gill: Heb 13:24 - -- Salute all them that have the rule over you,.... The pastors and officers of the church of the Hebrews, the same with those in Heb 13:7 and all the sa...

Salute all them that have the rule over you,.... The pastors and officers of the church of the Hebrews, the same with those in Heb 13:7 and all the saints; the several members of the church, who were set apart to holiness by God; whose sins were expiated by Christ; to whom Christ was made sanctification; and who were internally sanctified by the Spirit of God, and lived holy lives and conversations; to these the apostle wished all prosperity, inward and outward, spiritual and temporal; and he uses the word "all" in both clauses; and, including every officer and member, expresses his universal love to them, whether high or low, rich or poor, greater or lesser believers:

they of Italy salute you; that is, the brethren, as the Vulgate Latin version reads; the Italian brethren; such as were at Puteoli, and other places, in that country; see Act 28:13. Italy is a famous and well known country in Europe; a very fruitful and delightful one; of which Rome, where the apostle very likely now was, is the chief city: it has been called by different names, as Saturnia from Saturn; and Ausonia, Aenotria, and Hesperia Magna; and it had its name Italy, some say, from Italus, the son of Penelope and Telegonus; others, from Italus, a king of the Arcadians, or, as some say, the Sicilians; but, according to Timsaeus and Varro e, it was so called from the multitude of oxen in it, which in the old Greek language were called ιταλοι, "Italoi", to which comes near in sound the Latin word "vituli", used for "calves"; and Italy is frequently, by Jewish writers f called איטליא של יון, "Italy of Greece"; and formerly it was inhabited by Greeks, and was called Great Greece g: it is bounded on the east with the Adriatic sea; and on the west by the river Var, with the Alps, which separate France from Italy; and on the south with the Tyrrhene, or Tuscan sea, called the lower, and on the north, partly with the Alps, which are on the borders of Germany, and partly with the Adriatic sea, called the higher. There were Christians in this country before the Apostle Paul came to Rome, both at Rome, and other places, as before observed. It is said h, that Barnabas was first at Rome, and planted the church there; that he went round Lombardy, and lived at Milain; that in the "first" century, Apollinaris preached at Ravenna, and Hermagoras at Aquileia; and there were Christian churches in the "second" century, not only at Rome, but in many other cities and places; and so likewise in the "third" century, as at Verona, Spoletum, Beneventum, &c. and in the "fourth" century, there were great numbers of churches in this country; as at Verona, and Capua, in Calabria, Campania, and Apulia; and which might be traced in following centuries.

Gill: Heb 13:25 - -- Grace be with you all, Amen. Which is the apostle's usual salutation in all his epistles, 2Th 3:17 in which he wishes renewed discoveries of the love ...

Grace be with you all, Amen. Which is the apostle's usual salutation in all his epistles, 2Th 3:17 in which he wishes renewed discoveries of the love and favour of God; fresh communications of grace from Christ; an abundant supply of the spirit of grace; an increase of internal grace and external gifts; and a continuance of the Gospel of the grace of God. Of "Amen"; see Gill on Heb 13:21. The subscription of this epistle is,

written to the Hebrews from Italy by Timothy; in the Alexandrian copy it is, "written to the Hebrews from Rome"; which is very probable, since the Italian brethren send their salutations in it; and the words, "by Timothy", are left out; nor is it likely that it should, since it is clear, from Heb_13:23 that he was absent from the apostle; and if he had sent it by him, what need was there to inform them that he was set at liberty?

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Commentary -- Verse Notes / Footnotes

NET Notes: Heb 13:21 ‡ Most mss (א A [C*] 0243 0285 33 1739 1881 Ï latt) include the words “and ever” here, but the shorter reading (supported...

NET Notes: Heb 13:22 Grk “brothers.” See note on the phrase “brothers and sisters” in 2:11.

NET Notes: Heb 13:23 Grk “has been released, with whom, if he comes soon, I will see you.”

NET Notes: Heb 13:25 Most witnesses, including several important ones (א2 A C D H Ψ 0243 1739 1881 Ï lat sy bo), conclude the letter with ἀμP...

Geneva Bible: Heb 13:21 Make you ( h ) perfect in every good work to do his will, ( i ) working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom ...

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Commentary -- Verse Range Notes

TSK Synopsis: Heb 13:1-25 - --1 Divers admonitions as to charity;4 to honest life;5 to avoid covetousness;7 to regard God's preachers;9 to take heed of strange doctrines;10 to conf...

Combined Bible: Heb 13:21 - --Apostle’ s Prayer    (Hebrews 13:20, 21)    "Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that g...

Combined Bible: Heb 13:22 - --Exhortations    (Hebrews 13:22)    Before taking up our present verse let us offer some further remarks upon the last portions ...

Combined Bible: Heb 13:23 - --Freedom    (Hebrews 13:23)    Before turning to our present verse we must complete our observations on the one which occupied o...

Combined Bible: Heb 13:24-25 - --   (Hebrews 13:24, 25)    Everything down here comes, sooner or later, to its end. Terrible prospect for the wicked, for ther...

Maclaren: Heb 13:21 - --The Great Prayer Based On Great Pleas Make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, th...

MHCC: Heb 13:16-21 - --We must, according to our power, give to the necessities of the souls and bodies of men: God will accept these offerings with pleasure, and will accep...

MHCC: Heb 13:22-25 - --So bad are men, and even believers, through the remainders of their corruption, that when the most important, comfortable doctrine is delivered to the...

Matthew Henry: Heb 13:18-25 - -- Here, I. The apostle recommends himself, and his fellow-sufferers, to the prayers of the Hebrew believers (Heb 13:18): " Pray for us; for me and Ti...

Barclay: Heb 13:20-24 - --The great prayer of Heb 13:20-21draws a perfect picture of God and of Jesus. (i) God is the God of peace. Even in the most troublous and distressing ...

Constable: Heb 12:14--Jam 1:1 - --V. Life in a Hostile World 12:14--13:25 This final major section of the book apparently grew out of the writer's...

Constable: Heb 13:1-25 - --B. Life within the Church ch. 13 The writer concluded his written sermon with specific exhortations, req...

Constable: Heb 13:1-21 - --1. Pastoral reminders 13:1-21 This section consists of parenesis, reminders of what the readers ...

Constable: Heb 13:20-21 - --Doxology 13:20-21 These verses express the writer's prayerful wish for his readers. 13:20 Elsewhere John and Peter called Jesus Christ the Good Shephe...

Constable: Heb 13:22-25 - --2. Personal Explanations 13:22-25 The closing verses of Hebrews are an addendum to the body of the homily. The writer added them because he felt conce...

College: Heb 13:1-25 - --HEBREWS 13 IX. CONCLUDING EXHORTATIONS (13:1-25) As chapter thirteen begins, the main body of argument has passed and the benediction and closing gr...

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Introduction / Outline

Robertson: Hebrews (Book Introduction) The Epistle to the Hebrews By Way of Introduction Unsettled Problems Probably no book in the New Testament presents more unsettled problems tha...

JFB: Hebrews (Book Introduction) CANONICITY AND AUTHORSHIP.--CLEMENT OF ROME, at the end of the first century (A.D), copiously uses it, adopting its words just as he does those of the...

JFB: Hebrews (Outline) THE HIGHEST OF ALL REVELATIONS IS GIVEN US NOW IN THE SON OF GOD, WHO IS GREATER THAN THE ANGELS, AND WHO, HAVING COMPLETED REDEMPTION, SITS ENTHRONE...

TSK: Hebrews 13 (Chapter Introduction) Overview Heb 13:1, Divers admonitions as to charity; Heb 13:4, to honest life; Heb 13:5, to avoid covetousness; Heb 13:7, to regard God’s preach...

Poole: Hebrews 13 (Chapter Introduction) CHAPTER 13

MHCC: Hebrews (Book Introduction) This epistle shows Christ as the end, foundation, body, and truth of the figures of the law, which of themselves were no virtue for the soul. The grea...

MHCC: Hebrews 13 (Chapter Introduction) (Heb 13:1-6) Exhortations to various duties, and to be content with what Providence allots. (Heb 13:7-15) To respect the instructions of faithful pas...

Matthew Henry: Hebrews (Book Introduction) An Exposition, with Practical Observations, of The Epistle to the Hebrews Concerning this epistle we must enquire, I. Into the divine authority of it...

Matthew Henry: Hebrews 13 (Chapter Introduction) The apostle, having treated largely of Christ, and faith, and free grace, and gospel privileges, and warned the Hebrews against apostasy, now, in t...

Barclay: Hebrews (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO THE LETTER TO THE HEBREWS God Fulfils Himself In Many Ways Religion has never been the same thing to all men. "God," as Tennyson sai...

Barclay: Hebrews 13 (Chapter Introduction) The Marks Of The Christian Life (Heb_13:1-6) The Leaders And The Leader (Heb_13:7-8) The Wrong And The Right Sacrifice (Heb_13:9-16) Obedience And...

Constable: Hebrews (Book Introduction) Introduction Historical background The writer said that he and those to whom he wrote ...

Constable: Hebrews (Outline)

Constable: Hebrews Hebrews Bibliography Andersen, Ward. "The Believer's Rest (Hebrews 4)." Biblical Viewpoint 24:1 (April 1990):31...

Haydock: Hebrews (Book Introduction) THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL, THE APOSTLE, TO THE HEBREWS. INTRODUCTION. The Catholic Church hath received and declared this Epistle to be part of ...

Gill: Hebrews (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO HEBREWS That this epistle was written very early appears from hence, that it was imitated by Clement of Rome, in his epistle to the...

Gill: Hebrews 13 (Chapter Introduction) INTRODUCTION TO HEBREWS 13 The apostle having finished the doctrinal part of this epistle, closes it with practical exhortations to these Hebrews, ...

College: Hebrews (Book Introduction) INTRODUCTION It is difficult to overestimate the significance of Hebrews for understanding the nature of the new covenant. No other document in the N...

College: Hebrews (Outline) OUTLINE I. JESUS IS SUPERIOR TO THE ANGELS - 1:1-14 A. The Preeminence of the Son - 1:1-4 B. The Son Superior to the Angels - 1:5-14 II. ...

Advanced Commentary (Dictionaries, Hymns, Arts, Sermon Illustration, Question and Answers, etc)


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