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Hebrews 13:15
Verse
Context
Sacrifice, Obedience, and Prayer
14For here we do not have a permanent city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.15Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name.16And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise - He has now fulfilled all vision and prophecy, has offered the last bloody sacrifice which God will ever accept; and as he is the gift of God's love to the world, let us through him offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, this being the substitute for all the Levitical sacrifices. The Jews allowed that, in the time of the Messiah, all sacrifices, except the sacrifice of praise, should cease. To this maxim the apostle appears to allude; and, understood in this way, his words are much more forcible. In Vayikra Rabba, sect. 9, fol. 153, and Rabbi Tanchum, fol. 55: "Rabbi Phineas, Rabbi Levi, and Rabbi Jochanan, from the authority of Rabbi Menachem of Galilee, said, In the time of the Messiah all sacrifice shall cease, except the sacrifice of praise." This was, in effect, quoting the authority of one of their own maxims, that now was the time of the Messiah; that Jesus was that Messiah; that the Jewish sacrificial system was now abolished; and that no sacrifice would now be accepted of God, except the sacrifice of praise for the gift of his Son. That is, the fruit of our lips - This expression is probably borrowed from Hos 14:2, in the version of the Septuagint, καρπον χειλεων which in the Hebrew text is פרים שפתינו parim sephatheinu, "the heifers of our lips." This may refer primarily to the sacrifices, heifers, calves, etc., which they had vowed to God; so that the calves of their lips were the sacrifices which they had promised. But how could the Septuagint translate פרים parim, calves, by καρπον, fruit? Very easily, if they had in their copy פרי peri, the mem being omitted; and thus the word would be literally fruit, and not calves. This reading, however, is not found in any of the MSS. hitherto collated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
As the "altar" was mentioned in Heb 13:10, so the "sacrifices" here (compare Pe1 2:5, namely, praise and doing good, Heb 13:16). Compare Psa 119:108; Rom 12:1. By him--as the Mediator of our prayers and praises (Joh 14:13-14); not by Jewish observances (Psa 50:14, Psa 50:23; Psa 69:30-31; Psa 107:22; Psa 116:17). It was an old saying of the rabbis, "At a future time all sacrifices shall cease, but praises shall not cease." of praise--for salvation. continually--not merely at fixed seasons, as those on which the legal sacrifices were offered, but throughout all our lives. fruit of our lips-- (Isa 57:19; Hos 14:2). giving thanks--Greek, "confessing." BENGEL remarks that the Hebrew, "todah," is beautifully emphatic. It literally means "acknowledgment" or "confession." In praising a creature, we may easily exceed the truth; but in praising God we have only to go on confessing what He really is to us. Hence it is impossible to exceed the truth, and here is genuine praise.
John Gill Bible Commentary
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise,.... For temporal and spiritual mercies; particularly for sanctification, or expiation of sin, by the blood of Christ; and for heaven, the continuing city, that is to come: this sacrifice is not a proper, nor a propitiatory one, but spiritual and evangelical; it is enjoined by God, is well pleasing to him, and glorifies him; and is our reasonable service, that believe in Christ; for being made priests by him to God, and having faith in him, such are capable of offering it aright; to do which, they are under the greatest obligations: and it is to be offered up by Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and for ever; and who has suffered without the gate, that he might sanctify the people by his blood; it is to be done in imitation of him, and by his assistance; and for him, and blessings in him; and on him, as the altar, which sanctifies the gift; and through him, as the high priest and Mediator; for, as there is no coming to God but by Christ, and all our mercies come to us through him, and our thanksgivings are only acceptable to God on his account, it must be right to offer them up by him: and that, to God continually: as the Creator and Preserver of us, in our beings; as the Father of mercies; as the Father of Christ; and as our covenant God and Father in him; since he is always bestowing mercies on us, of one kind or another; and, therefore, should be continually praised, even in times of adversity, affliction, and temptation; in the midst of reproach and persecution; even when unsettled in mind, body, and estate; since there is a continuing city to come; nor can a believer be in any state of life but he has something to be thankful for: that is, the fruit of our lips; the sacrifice of praise is so called, in allusion to the offering of the firstfruits under the law; and to distinguish it from legal sacrifices; and to show in what way and manner we are to praise God, namely, with our lips: in Hos 14:2 which is thought to be referred to here, it is, "the calves of our lips"; sacrifices of praise being instead of calves: and the apostle interprets it in great agreement with the Jewish writers; the Chaldee paraphrase explains it by , "the words of their lips": and so Jarchi, , "the words of our lips"; and Kimchi, , "the confession of our lips": and it may be observed, that there is a great nearness in "calves", and "fruit"; though perhaps rather the phrase is borrowed from Isa 57:19 where it is expressly had; the Septuagint indeed have it in Hos 14:2 & the apostle adds, for further explanation, giving thanks to his name; to the name of God; to the glory of his name; to the honour of his divine perfections; for mercies of every kind: the word signifies "a speaking together"; and may design not only the conjunction of the heart and tongue together in praise, but a social giving thanks to God by the saints, as a body together: the phrase , "the sacrifice of praise", is used by the Septuagint in Ch2 29:31. The apostle having shown that legal sacrifices were all superseded and abolished by the sacrifice of Christ, which is the design of this epistle, points out what sacrifice believers should offer up to God, under the Gospel dispensation; and the Jews themselves say, that "in future time (i.e. in the days of the Messiah) all sacrifices shall cease, but , "the sacrifice of praise" shall not cease (b).'' (b) Vajikra Rabba, sect. 9. fol. 153. 1. & sect 27. fol. 168. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:15-16 In light of Jesus’ decisive, sacrificial work on our behalf, we still have sacrifices to offer: praise and obedience. Because Christ has eradicated the sacrificial system of the old covenant through the sacrifice of himself (7:27-28; 8:13; 9:11-14; 10:11-14), these are the sacrifices that please God. 13:15 sacrifice of praise: This probably refers to a peace offering (Lev 7:11-14). The person bringing the offering had to be made ritually clean before the offering could be made. Our thank offering to God can be continual because Jesus has made us clean for all time. When we give thanks to Jesus continually, we are proclaiming our allegiance to his name.
Hebrews 13:15
Sacrifice, Obedience, and Prayer
14For here we do not have a permanent city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.15Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name.16And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Evan Roberts Preaching in 1905
By Evan Roberts4.7K00:11Our Response to GodGod's Glory1CH 16:8PSA 96:3PSA 145:3ISA 43:7MAT 5:16ROM 12:1COL 3:23HEB 13:151PE 2:9REV 4:11Evan Roberts reflects on the glorious deeds of God, emphasizing that no amount of time could fully express His greatness. He challenges the congregation to consider what they offer to God in return for His blessings and grace. The sermon serves as a reminder of God's eternal presence and the importance of our response to His love and mercy.
Garments of Praise
By Ben Crandall4.2K38:40PSA 100:4PSA 148:1PSA 150:1ISA 61:3MAT 17:20HEB 13:15REV 5:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of praising God and being clothed with the 'garments of praise' instead of the 'spirit of heaviness.' It highlights how praise lifts faith, reveals God's truth, and leads to victory over problems. The message encourages continuous praise throughout the day and explores the significance of praising God with all creation, from angels to mountains, as a powerful act of worship and declaration of His greatness.
The Anatomy of Worship
By Art Katz3.5K37:57WorshipGEN 4:2GEN 4:25MAT 6:33MAT 22:37HEB 13:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of maintaining a living relationship with God. He warns against the danger of becoming so focused on doing God's will that we outstrip Him and neglect our relationship with Him. The preacher uses the story of Cain and Abel to illustrate this point, highlighting Cain's lack of worshipful and respectful attitude towards God. He emphasizes that worship is not limited to music, but includes actions and attitudes that flow from a worshipful heart in a relationship with God.
God Is Worthy of Worship
By Leonard Ravenhill2.6K1:18:17EXO 15:2PSA 29:2PSA 96:9PSA 100:2PSA 150:6ISA 6:1JHN 4:23HEB 13:15REV 5:1REV 7:9This sermon emphasizes the privilege and importance of worship, focusing on the scene in Revelation 5 where the Lamb is found worthy to open the book and receive worship from all creatures in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. It highlights the need for believers to engage in deep, passionate worship, gazing on the holiness, faithfulness, love, and purity of God, and anticipating the eternal worship in His presence.
The Full Resurrection Power of Christ
By Keith Daniel2.4K1:07:52Resurrection PowerGratitudeResurrection LifePSA 100:4JHN 3:16ACT 3:19ROM 10:92CO 5:17EPH 5:20PHP 4:6COL 3:171TH 5:16HEB 13:15Keith Daniel emphasizes the significance of gratitude and the full resurrection power of Christ in the lives of believers. He encourages the congregation to maintain their high standards of faith and to continually offer praise to God, which empowers them and strengthens their faith. Daniel shares personal anecdotes and testimonies to illustrate the transformative power of worship and the necessity of repentance and belief in the risen Christ for salvation. He concludes by urging everyone to commit their lives to God and to embrace a lifestyle of thanksgiving, which leads to spiritual strength and joy.
(The Foundation and the Building) an Ambition to Please God
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:00:41HEB 13:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living for God's kingdom and demonstrating it through our lives. He shares his personal experience of leaving his job in the Indian Navy to serve God, highlighting the need to prioritize God above all else. The speaker also discusses the assurance that God will provide for our needs, referencing the scripture in Matthew 6:33. He encourages listeners to live sacrificially for their convictions, factor God into every situation, and think of others more. The sermon also addresses the danger of being defeated by sin and becoming slaves to our enemies, attributing it to a failure to praise God for all that He has given us. The speaker emphasizes the importance of offering a sacrifice of praise to God and being grateful for His blessings.
Thanksgiving, Praise and Worship
By Zac Poonen1.9K1:01:20PSA 50:23PSA 138:1MAT 21:16JHN 4:23ROM 12:1HEB 2:12HEB 13:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinctions between thanksgiving, praise, and worship. It highlights the significance of expressing gratitude, offering praise, and surrendering in worship to God. The speaker encourages continuous thanksgiving, genuine praise, and deep worship as essential aspects of a Christ-like life, drawing insights from Psalms, Hebrews, and Revelation.
Your Purpose in Life
By Alan Ives1.8K44:10PurposePSA 89:16PSA 139:14ISA 40:31MAT 6:33COL 3:171TH 5:18HEB 13:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of praising God. He contrasts the worship of false gods with the privilege of singing a new song to the one true God. The preacher highlights the example of David, who purposed in his heart to praise the Lord as long as he lived. The sermon also emphasizes the need to continually praise Jesus, as he is always worthy of our praise. The preacher encourages believers to offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, as it is the fruit of our lips.
Ravenhill Humor - on Hymn 'And Can It Be'
By Leonard Ravenhill1.7K00:19Ravenhill HumorWorshipReverence in MusicPSA 100:1PSA 150:6EPH 5:19COL 3:23HEB 13:15Leonard Ravenhill humorously critiques the rendition of the hymn 'And Can It Be,' expressing his disappointment after hearing it sung poorly for many years. He imagines that Charles Wesley, the hymn's author, would be turning in his grave at the lack of reverence and quality in the performance. Ravenhill's remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of honoring the legacy of great hymns through sincere worship.
Practical Issues of Kingdom Living - Part 1
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:19:15Kingdom Of GodISA 64:6MAT 6:1JHN 3:16ACT 6:1HEB 13:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the difference in attitude towards eating, drinking, and dressing between believers and the world. The two keywords highlighted are "serve" and "seek." The preacher emphasizes that believers cannot serve both God and mammon, and encourages them to prioritize serving God. He also mentions the importance of seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness first, and assures believers that if they do so, all their needs will be provided for. The preacher acknowledges that believers still need to work and make a living in this world, but advises them to be wise with their earnings, save, and give generously.
The Sacrifice of Praise
By Ed Mohr1.5K23:04PraiseGEN 50:20MAT 6:33MAT 16:25ACT 20:352CO 9:6HEB 13:151JN 3:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of releasing our burdens and difficulties to God. He uses the story of Joseph and his brothers as an example of how God can turn our hardships into blessings when we surrender them to Him. The speaker encourages the audience to seek first the kingdom of God and trust that He will provide for their needs. He suggests a practical exercise of making two lists - one for past disappointments and hurts, and another for present difficulties - and giving thanks to God for each item on the lists.
Quote - Prayer, Praise, Worship
By Leonard Ravenhill1.4K00:11PraiseRavenhill QuoteWorshipPrayerPSA 95:6PSA 100:4PSA 103:2MAT 6:33JHN 4:24ROM 12:1PHP 4:6COL 3:161TH 5:16HEB 13:15Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the distinctions between prayer, praise, and worship, noting that prayer often focuses on our needs, praise centers on our blessings, and true worship is a deep preoccupation with God Himself. He encourages believers to move beyond mere requests and gratitude to a profound engagement with the divine presence, highlighting the importance of prioritizing God in our spiritual lives.
Pure Heart, Pure Church - Part 4
By Leonard Ravenhill1.4K09:28LEV 1:3PSA 34:18PSA 51:7PSA 51:17PSA 66:18ISA 1:11ROM 12:1HEB 9:22HEB 13:15JAS 5:16This sermon delves into the themes of cleansing, sacrifice, brokenness, and offerings as mentioned in the Bible. It reflects on historical periods of great preachers and the need for a revival to restore a sense of God's holiness and the sinfulness of sin. The speaker emphasizes the importance of deep, heartfelt prayer and the transformative power of encountering God's majesty.
Why We Praise
By Jim Cymbala1.3K41:40Praise2CH 20:21MAT 21:16LUK 19:40JHN 4:231TI 2:8HEB 13:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of praising the Lord and expresses his frustration with the Western mentality that discourages emotional expression, especially in religious contexts. He compares the enthusiasm and emotional outbursts seen in sports events to the lack of freedom to worship and praise God without judgment. The speaker encourages the audience to prioritize praising and thanking God in the coming year, disregarding what others may think. He concludes by reminding the audience that Jesus is always present and deserving of their heartfelt praise and worship.
Hebrews Chapter 6
By Chip Brogden1.0K31:08ExpositionalHEB 4:12HEB 6:1HEB 6:19HEB 10:22HEB 12:2HEB 13:8HEB 13:15In this video, Chip Brogdon continues his series of messages from the book of Hebrews. He begins by praying for God to open our eyes and hearts and give us understanding and insight into the scriptures. The focus of this particular message is on Hebrews chapter 6. Chip encourages the viewers to grab their Bibles and turn to this chapter. He emphasizes the importance of studying the book of Hebrews, as it is full of wisdom, knowledge, and grace, and allows us to see Jesus in its pages.
Process of Becoming a Bride - Part 3
By Hattie Hammond1.0K1:27:23Bride Of ChristGEN 22:2MAT 6:33JHN 4:24ACT 1:3ROM 12:11CO 14:15HEB 13:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God's will. They acknowledge that even after battling, fasting, and commanding, the ultimate prayer should be for God's will to be done. The speaker shares a story of a woman who came to their meeting and was miraculously healed by God. They also discuss the significance of approaching God with humility and reverence, highlighting the disciples' awe at hearing Jesus pray. The speaker criticizes the idea of treating God like a vending machine, where one can obtain power through specific actions. They conclude by sharing their personal experience of facing trials and challenges as a preacher, but remaining committed to God's calling.
Gathering as House Churches During the Current Time of Apostasy
By Edgar Reich1.0K04:36JHN 4:24ACT 2:42ROM 15:52CO 6:17EPH 4:3EPH 5:192TI 4:3HEB 10:25HEB 13:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of believers gathering under the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ, highlighting the scarcity of the true Word of God being taught in many churches today. It urges believers to seek the truth of God's Word, to assemble with like-minded believers, and to live out the teachings of the Bible daily. The message encourages unity among believers based on the foundational teachings of the Gospels, Acts, and the entirety of Scripture, rather than denominational divisions.
Three Important Words
By Zac Poonen82655:16GEN 15:6PSA 73:25MAT 16:18JHN 4:23HEB 13:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of studying the scriptures diligently to understand the true meanings of key words like 'believe,' 'worship,' and 'church.' It highlights the significance of surrendering all that is precious to us to God as an act of worship, trusting in His promises, and being part of the church that Jesus is building, where the gates of Hades cannot prevail.
Celebrating 30 Years at Zaventem April 1995
By George Verwer48345:07MissionsPSA 99:9ISA 6:3MAT 6:33ROM 12:1HEB 13:15REV 4:8In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a past discussion with friends about their commitment to never leave each other. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of worship and offering our lives to God as a sacrifice. They encourage the congregation to sing the worship song "Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty" and listen to a song by Keith Green. The speaker also mentions a video done by Australians that can be borrowed, but there is a limitation on the size of free books given out. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the continuation of serving and extending God's love to the world.
The Life of Abraham - Part 3
By W.F. Anderson37600:00GEN 14:11MAT 6:33EPH 4:29HEB 13:15In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing the story of the capture of Sodom and Gomorrah by four kings who were against their rule. These kings were determined to collect money and goods from the rebellious nations, including Sodom and Gomorrah. The battle resulted in the capture of Lot and his family, along with the people and goods of Sodom and Gomorrah. The speaker then goes on to discuss various books, including one about Charlie Colson's conversion, and recommends reading it. The sermon concludes with a call to turn to the book of Genesis, specifically chapter 14, for further study.
Worship, Our Highest Calling
By David Ravenhill461:12:49Surrender to GodWorshipGEN 22:51CH 16:29PSA 29:2PSA 99:5ISA 29:13MAT 4:10JHN 4:24ROM 12:1COL 3:23HEB 13:15David Ravenhill emphasizes the profound calling of worship, which he believes surpasses all other roles in the church. He explores seven facets of worship, including its priority, person, provision, picture, price, posture, and power, stressing that true worship is an unreserved giving of oneself to God. Ravenhill argues that worship is not limited to music but is a lifestyle of surrender and devotion to God, reflecting a heart fully committed to Him. He highlights the importance of engaging the mind, emotions, and will in worship, and concludes that God seeks true worshippers who will worship Him in spirit and truth.
Broken & Poured Out
By Shane Idleman823:05WorshipHeart TransformationPSA 51:17ISA 57:15JER 31:33MAT 11:28JHN 4:24ROM 12:1EPH 5:19HEB 13:151PE 2:9REV 2:4Shane Idleman emphasizes the necessity of being both a worshiper and a worker in the Christian faith, sharing his personal journey from skepticism to a heart transformed by God's grace. He warns against the dangers of focusing solely on works without worship, which can lead to a hardened heart, and encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God through worship. Idleman highlights that true worship stems from a broken heart that recognizes the depth of God's mercy and grace, urging the congregation to examine their hearts and repent if necessary. He stresses that both worship and work are essential for a vibrant faith, and that neglecting either can lead to spiritual stagnation. Ultimately, he calls for a return to heartfelt worship as a means of experiencing God's transformative power.
Thou Gavest Me No Kiss
By Leonard Ravenhill1WorshipIntimacy With God1SA 16:7PSA 29:2PSA 95:6PSA 100:2ISA 29:13MAT 15:8JHN 4:24ROM 12:1HEB 13:15JAS 4:8Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the necessity of genuine worship over mere service to God, warning that one can be busy in ministry yet neglect the intimate relationship with Christ. He challenges listeners to reflect on their personal worship, urging them to seek a deep, heartfelt connection with God rather than relying on external actions or appearances. Ravenhill illustrates that true spirituality comes from adoration and love for Jesus, not just from religious activities. He reminds us that God desires worship in spirit and truth, and that our relationship with Him should be prioritized above all else. Ultimately, he poses the poignant question of whether we have truly 'kissed' the Lord in our daily lives.
Worship Series #2 "God Great Purpose in Redemption-Worship"
By A.W. Tozer0WorshipRedemptionPSA 29:2PSA 95:6ISA 6:3EZK 1:1LUK 19:40JHN 4:24ROM 12:1HEB 13:151PE 2:9REV 4:11A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the ultimate purpose of God's redemption is to transform enemies into worshipers, highlighting the mutual desire between God and His people. He argues that worship is the natural state of moral beings and is essential for fulfilling our purpose as created beings. Tozer warns that the church has lost the jewel of worship, becoming more focused on rituals than on genuine adoration of God. He calls for a return to heartfelt worship, which is characterized by admiration, fascination, and a deep personal connection with God. Ultimately, Tozer urges believers to recognize worship as a moral imperative and the true essence of their relationship with the Creator.
The Message of Hebrews
By G. Campbell Morgan0ApostasyFaithHEB 1:1HEB 3:12HEB 4:1HEB 6:1HEB 10:22HEB 11:1HEB 12:1HEB 12:15HEB 13:15G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the profound teachings of Hebrews, focusing on the perfection of God's revelation through the Son, the principle of life by faith, and the peril of apostasy. He explains that the revelation through Christ supersedes all previous forms, meets every human need, and ensures ultimate victory. Morgan defines faith as a volitional surrender that acts despite appearances, contrasting it with apostasy, which leads to disobedience and spiritual death. He warns the church of the dangers of drifting away from God's promises and encourages believers to hold fast to their faith and service. Ultimately, the message calls for a deep understanding of God's sovereignty and the necessity of faith in the believer's life.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise - He has now fulfilled all vision and prophecy, has offered the last bloody sacrifice which God will ever accept; and as he is the gift of God's love to the world, let us through him offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, this being the substitute for all the Levitical sacrifices. The Jews allowed that, in the time of the Messiah, all sacrifices, except the sacrifice of praise, should cease. To this maxim the apostle appears to allude; and, understood in this way, his words are much more forcible. In Vayikra Rabba, sect. 9, fol. 153, and Rabbi Tanchum, fol. 55: "Rabbi Phineas, Rabbi Levi, and Rabbi Jochanan, from the authority of Rabbi Menachem of Galilee, said, In the time of the Messiah all sacrifice shall cease, except the sacrifice of praise." This was, in effect, quoting the authority of one of their own maxims, that now was the time of the Messiah; that Jesus was that Messiah; that the Jewish sacrificial system was now abolished; and that no sacrifice would now be accepted of God, except the sacrifice of praise for the gift of his Son. That is, the fruit of our lips - This expression is probably borrowed from Hos 14:2, in the version of the Septuagint, καρπον χειλεων which in the Hebrew text is פרים שפתינו parim sephatheinu, "the heifers of our lips." This may refer primarily to the sacrifices, heifers, calves, etc., which they had vowed to God; so that the calves of their lips were the sacrifices which they had promised. But how could the Septuagint translate פרים parim, calves, by καρπον, fruit? Very easily, if they had in their copy פרי peri, the mem being omitted; and thus the word would be literally fruit, and not calves. This reading, however, is not found in any of the MSS. hitherto collated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
As the "altar" was mentioned in Heb 13:10, so the "sacrifices" here (compare Pe1 2:5, namely, praise and doing good, Heb 13:16). Compare Psa 119:108; Rom 12:1. By him--as the Mediator of our prayers and praises (Joh 14:13-14); not by Jewish observances (Psa 50:14, Psa 50:23; Psa 69:30-31; Psa 107:22; Psa 116:17). It was an old saying of the rabbis, "At a future time all sacrifices shall cease, but praises shall not cease." of praise--for salvation. continually--not merely at fixed seasons, as those on which the legal sacrifices were offered, but throughout all our lives. fruit of our lips-- (Isa 57:19; Hos 14:2). giving thanks--Greek, "confessing." BENGEL remarks that the Hebrew, "todah," is beautifully emphatic. It literally means "acknowledgment" or "confession." In praising a creature, we may easily exceed the truth; but in praising God we have only to go on confessing what He really is to us. Hence it is impossible to exceed the truth, and here is genuine praise.
John Gill Bible Commentary
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise,.... For temporal and spiritual mercies; particularly for sanctification, or expiation of sin, by the blood of Christ; and for heaven, the continuing city, that is to come: this sacrifice is not a proper, nor a propitiatory one, but spiritual and evangelical; it is enjoined by God, is well pleasing to him, and glorifies him; and is our reasonable service, that believe in Christ; for being made priests by him to God, and having faith in him, such are capable of offering it aright; to do which, they are under the greatest obligations: and it is to be offered up by Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and for ever; and who has suffered without the gate, that he might sanctify the people by his blood; it is to be done in imitation of him, and by his assistance; and for him, and blessings in him; and on him, as the altar, which sanctifies the gift; and through him, as the high priest and Mediator; for, as there is no coming to God but by Christ, and all our mercies come to us through him, and our thanksgivings are only acceptable to God on his account, it must be right to offer them up by him: and that, to God continually: as the Creator and Preserver of us, in our beings; as the Father of mercies; as the Father of Christ; and as our covenant God and Father in him; since he is always bestowing mercies on us, of one kind or another; and, therefore, should be continually praised, even in times of adversity, affliction, and temptation; in the midst of reproach and persecution; even when unsettled in mind, body, and estate; since there is a continuing city to come; nor can a believer be in any state of life but he has something to be thankful for: that is, the fruit of our lips; the sacrifice of praise is so called, in allusion to the offering of the firstfruits under the law; and to distinguish it from legal sacrifices; and to show in what way and manner we are to praise God, namely, with our lips: in Hos 14:2 which is thought to be referred to here, it is, "the calves of our lips"; sacrifices of praise being instead of calves: and the apostle interprets it in great agreement with the Jewish writers; the Chaldee paraphrase explains it by , "the words of their lips": and so Jarchi, , "the words of our lips"; and Kimchi, , "the confession of our lips": and it may be observed, that there is a great nearness in "calves", and "fruit"; though perhaps rather the phrase is borrowed from Isa 57:19 where it is expressly had; the Septuagint indeed have it in Hos 14:2 & the apostle adds, for further explanation, giving thanks to his name; to the name of God; to the glory of his name; to the honour of his divine perfections; for mercies of every kind: the word signifies "a speaking together"; and may design not only the conjunction of the heart and tongue together in praise, but a social giving thanks to God by the saints, as a body together: the phrase , "the sacrifice of praise", is used by the Septuagint in Ch2 29:31. The apostle having shown that legal sacrifices were all superseded and abolished by the sacrifice of Christ, which is the design of this epistle, points out what sacrifice believers should offer up to God, under the Gospel dispensation; and the Jews themselves say, that "in future time (i.e. in the days of the Messiah) all sacrifices shall cease, but , "the sacrifice of praise" shall not cease (b).'' (b) Vajikra Rabba, sect. 9. fol. 153. 1. & sect 27. fol. 168. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:15-16 In light of Jesus’ decisive, sacrificial work on our behalf, we still have sacrifices to offer: praise and obedience. Because Christ has eradicated the sacrificial system of the old covenant through the sacrifice of himself (7:27-28; 8:13; 9:11-14; 10:11-14), these are the sacrifices that please God. 13:15 sacrifice of praise: This probably refers to a peace offering (Lev 7:11-14). The person bringing the offering had to be made ritually clean before the offering could be made. Our thank offering to God can be continual because Jesus has made us clean for all time. When we give thanks to Jesus continually, we are proclaiming our allegiance to his name.