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Hebrews 13:20
Verse
Context
Benediction and Farewell
19And I especially urge you to pray that I may be restored to you soon.20Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21equip you with every good thing to do His will. And may He accomplish in us what is pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Sermons
David Wilkerson
C.H. Spurgeon
Roy Hession
George WarnockC.H. Spurgeon
T. Austin-Sparks
Denny KenastonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now the God of peace - We have often seen that peace among the Hebrews signifies prosperity of every kind. The God of peace is the same as the God of all blessedness, who has at his disposal all temporal and eternal good; who loves mankind, and has provided them a complete salvation. Brought again from the dead our Lord - As our Lord's sacrificial death is considered as an atonement offered to the Divine justice, God's acceptance of it as an atonement is signified by his raising the human nature of Christ from the dead; and hence this raising of Christ is, with the utmost propriety, attributed to God the Father, as this proves his acceptance of the sacrificial offering. That great Shepherd of the sheep - This is a title of our blessed Lord, given to him by the prophets; so Isa 40:11; He shall feed his flock like a shepherd; He shall gather the lambs with his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those which are with young: and Eze 34:23; I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them; even my servant David, (i.e. the beloved, viz. Jesus), and he shall feed them, and be their shepherd: and Zac 13:7; Awake, O sword, against my shepherd - smite the shepherd, and the flock shall be scattered. In all these places the term shepherd is allowed to belong to our blessed Lord; and he appropriates it to himself, Joh 10:11, by calling himself the good Shepherd, who, lays down his life for the sheep. Through the blood of the everlasting covenant - Some understand this in the following way, that "God brought back our Lord from the dead on account of his having shed his blood to procure the everlasting covenant." Others, that the Lord Jesus became the great Shepherd and Savior of the sheep by shedding his blood to procure and ratify the everlasting covenant." The sense, however, will appear much plainer if we connect this with the following verse: "Now the God of peace, who brought again from the dead, our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, make you, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, perfect in every good work to do his will." The Christian system is termed the everlasting covenant, to distinguish it from the temporary covenant made with the Israelites at Mount Sinai; and to show that it is the last dispensation of grace to the world, and shall endure to the end of time.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Concluding prayer. God of peace--So Paul, Rom 15:33; Rom 16:20; Co2 13:11; Phi 4:9; Th1 5:23; Th2 3:16. The Judaizing of the Hebrews was calculated to sow seeds of discord among them, of disobedience to their pastors (Heb 13:17), and of alienation towards Paul. The God of peace by giving unity of true doctrine, will unite them in mutual love. brought again from the dead--Greek, "brought up," &c.: God brought the Shepherd; the Shepherd shall bring the flock. Here only in the Epistle he mentions the resurrection. He would not conclude without mentioning 'the connecting link between the two truths mainly discussed; the one perfect sacrifice and the continual priestly intercession--the depth of His humiliation and the height of His glory--the "altar" of the cross and the ascension to the heavenly Holy of Holies. Lord Jesus--the title marking His person and His Lordship over us. But Heb 13:21, "through Jesus Christ." His office, as the Anointed of the Spirit, making Him the medium of communicating the Spirit to us, the holy unction flowing down from the Head on the members (compare Act 2:36). great-- (Heb 4:14). shepherd of the sheep--A title familiar to his Hebrew readers, from their Old Testament (Isa 63:11; Septuagint): primarily Moses, antitypically Christ: already compared together, Heb 3:2-7. The transition is natural from their earthly pastors (Heb 13:17), to the Chief Pastor, as in Pe1 5:1-4. Compare Eze 34:23 and Jesus' own words, Joh 10:2, Joh 10:11, Joh 10:14. through the blood--Greek, "in," in virtue of the blood (Heb 2:9); it was because of His bloody death for us, that the Father raised and crowned Him with glory. The "blood" was the seal of the everlasting covenant entered into between the Father and Son; in virtue of the Son's blood, first Christ was raised, then Christ's people shall be so (Zac 9:11, seemingly referred to here; Act 20:28). everlasting--The everlastingness of the covenant necessitated the resurrection. This clause, "the blood of the everlasting covenant," is a summary retrospect of the Epistle (compare Heb 9:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now the God of peace,.... This is the concluding part of the epistle, which is ended with a prayer, made up of very suitable petitions for the Hebrews; and as the apostle desires them to pray for him and other ministers, he, in turn, and by way of example, prays for them: and he addresses God, as "the God of peace"; who is so called, because of his concern in the peace and reconciliation of his people; because he is the giver of conscience peace to them; because he is the author of all felicity and prosperity, temporal and spiritual; the promoter of peace and concord among saints, and at last brings them to eternal peace; See Gill on Rom 15:33, a consideration of this gives boldness at the throne of grace; furnishes out a reason why blessings asked for may be expected; has a tendency to promote peace among brethren; may bear up saints under a sense of infirmity and imperfection, in prayer and other duties; and be an encouragement to them under Satan's temptations, and all afflictions. The Arabic version makes the God of peace to be Christ himself; whereas Christ is manifestly distinguished from him in the next verse; and even in that version, reading the words thus, "now; the God of peace raised from the dead Jesus the Shepherd of the sheep, magnified by the blood of the everlasting covenant; Jesus, I say, our Lord confirm you, &c. through Jesus Christ"; for which version there is no foundation in the original text. The God of peace is manifestly God the Father, who is distinguished from Christ his Son: that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus; who died for the sins of his people; was buried, and lay under the power of death for some time; but was raised from the dead by his Father; though not exclusive of himself, and the Spirit of holiness; in the same body in which he suffered and died; as the firstfruits of his people, and as their Lord and Saviour, head and surety, for their justification, and as a pledge of their resurrection. The apostle addresses the God and Father of Christ in prayer, under this consideration, to observe his power and ability to help in the greatest distress, and in the most difficult and desperate case; to encourage faith and hope in him, when things are at the worst, and most discouraging; to comfort the saints under afflictions, in a view of their resurrection; to engage them to regard a risen Christ, and things above, and to expect life and immortality by him: that great Shepherd of the sheep: the people of God, whom the Father has chosen, and given to Christ; for whom he has laid down his life; and whom the Spirit calls by his grace, and sanctifies; to whom Christ has a right, by his Father's gift, his own purchase, and the power of grace: these being partakers of his grace, are called "sheep", because they are harmless and inoffensive in their lives and conversations; and yet are exposed to danger; but meek and patient under sufferings; are weak and timorous of themselves; are clean, being washed in the blood of Christ; are sociable in their communion with one another; are profitable, though not to God, yet to men; are apt to go astray, and are liable to diseases: they are also called sheep, and are Christ's sheep before conversion; see Joh 10:16 and Christ, he is the Shepherd of them, who in all respects discharges the office of a shepherd to them, diligently and faithfully; See Gill on Joh 10:16, here he is called, "that great Shepherd"; being the man, God's fellow, equal to him, the great God and our Saviour; and having a flock which, though comparatively is a little one, is a flock of souls, of immortal souls, and is such a flock as no other shepherd has; hence he is called the Shepherd and Bishop of souls: and his abilities to feed them are exceeding great; he has a perfect knowledge of them; all power to protect and defend them; a fulness of grace to supply them; and he takes a diligent care of them: and this great Person so described was raised from the dead, through the blood of the everlasting covenant: for the sense is not, that God is the God of peace, through that blood, though it is true that peace is made by it; nor that Christ becomes the Shepherd of the sheep by it, though he has with it purchased the flock of God; nor that the chosen people become his sheep through it, though they are redeemed by it, and are delivered out of a pit wherein is no water, by the blood of this covenant; but that Christ was brought again from the dead through it; and it denotes the particular influence that it had upon his resurrection, and the continued virtue of it since. The "covenant" spoken of is not the covenant of works made with Adam, as the federal head of his natural seed; there was no mediator or shepherd of the sheep that had any concern therein; there was no blood in that covenant; nor was it an everlasting one: nor the covenant of circumcision given to Abraham; though possibly there may be some reference to it; or this may be opposed to that, since the blood of circumcision is often called by the Jews , "the blood of the covenant" (d): nor the covenant on Mount Sinai, though there may be an allusion to it; since the blood which was then shed, and sprinkled on the people, is called the blood of the covenant, Exo 24:8 but that was not an everlasting covenant, that has waxed old, and vanished away; but the covenant of grace is meant, before called the new and better covenant, of which Christ is the surety and Mediator; see Heb 7:22. This is an "everlasting one"; it commenced from everlasting, as appears from the everlasting love of God, which is the rise and foundation of it; from the counsels of God of old, which issued in it; from Christ's being set up from everlasting, as the Mediator of it; from the promises of it which were made before the world began; and from the spiritual blessings of grace in it, which were given to God's elect in Christ before the foundation of it: moreover, it will endure for ever; nor will it be succeeded by any other covenant: and the blood of Christ may be called the blood of it, because the shedding of it is a principal article in it; by it the covenant is ratified and confirmed; and all the blessings of it come through it, as redemption, peace, pardon, justification, and even admission into heaven itself; and Christ, through it, was brought again from the dead, because by it he fulfilled his covenant engagements, satisfied divine justice, and abolished sin, yea, death itself. (d) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 135. 1. & T. Hieros. Yebamot, fol. 9. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:20-21 Benedictions were an important element of letters, speeches, and sermons. The author of Hebrews weaves a number of important themes from the book into his benediction. • The image of our Lord Jesus as the great Shepherd of the sheep (cp. Ps 23) communicates God’s provision for and protection of his people (see also John 10:11-18; 1 Pet 2:25) and is specifically tied here to an eternal covenant.
Hebrews 13:20
Benediction and Farewell
19And I especially urge you to pray that I may be restored to you soon.20Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21equip you with every good thing to do His will. And may He accomplish in us what is pleasing in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Binding the Strongman
By David Wilkerson11K53:12Binding The StrongmanPSA 37:40MAT 6:33LUK 1:74COL 1:13HEB 13:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the desire to see Jesus and have a personal encounter with Him. Jesus acknowledges this desire but redirects the attention to His impending crucifixion and the victory that will come through it. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus came out of the grave as a powerful and victorious shepherd, capable of overcoming any battle or temptation in our lives. The sermon also highlights the significance of the cross in delivering believers from the power of darkness and the kingdom of the devil, and emphasizes the importance of remembering this deliverance in our walk with Jesus.
Joshua's Obedience
By C.H. Spurgeon2.8K48:26JOS 1:7LUK 12:47HEB 13:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying close to the word of God and one's conscience in order to prosper in life. The sermon highlights the folly of being a free thinker and a free liver, and instead encourages obedience to God's commands. The preacher shares a story from the old French wars, where a soldier's obedience to the captain's command is praised as the mark of a bold and excellent soldier. The sermon also references Joshua's obedience and perseverance in carrying out God's tasks, and encourages listeners to have the courage to stand firm in their obedience to God, even in the face of challenges.
(Men Who Saw God) 3. the Disciples
By Roy Hession2.7K48:10The DisciplesJHN 20:20HEB 13:20In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a Christian man who encounters a group of boys from Sunday school. He quizzes one of the boys about what he has learned about Jesus, and the boy quickly recites the key facts of Jesus' life, including his crucifixion. The speaker then discusses the common belief that salvation comes from repentance and promising to be better, but argues that this approach often leads to failure and lack of peace. Instead, the speaker emphasizes the importance of resting in the fact that Jesus' blood provides perfect righteousness and that Jesus is the one who overcomes sin in our lives. The sermon concludes by highlighting the transformative power of encountering the risen Lord Jesus.
Cranbrook Fellowship 2000 Albert Zehr - Gentle Leadership (Warnock Afterwards) From Tapes 3 and 4
By George Warnock2.5K56:00LeadershipJHN 15:13ROM 7:7HEB 13:20REV 13:18In this sermon, the speaker expresses gratitude for the love and care shown by the congregation. They mention how the temperature in the room seemed to rise as they spoke, indicating a spiritual warmth. The speaker then shares a personal reflection on praying for their children, with two of them walking with the Lord and one struggling. They mention a song about a strained daughter and the desire for God to reveal His love to her. The sermon concludes with the speaker realizing that sometimes they can be a hindrance to God's work and that it is the Holy Spirit who truly moves hearts.
The Blood of the Everlasting Covenant
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K40:20GEN 2:16HEB 13:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of spreading the gospel to all nations. He explains that while the application of God's message may be restricted to his chosen ones, the message itself is meant to be proclaimed to everyone. The preacher then presents the gospel message, stating that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. He encourages the listeners to put their trust in the merit of Jesus' blood and find their comfort and everlasting song in this belief. The sermon concludes with the preacher asking the audience if they have the hope of being in the covenant and if they have put their trust in the blood of Jesus.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 11
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K50:01Heavenly CallingPSA 77:20PSA 78:52PSA 95:7ISA 53:6JHN 10:19ACT 20:28ROM 10:16HEB 13:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of God as the good shepherd and his relationship with his people. He references various passages from the Bible, including Psalms 77:20 and 78:52, as well as Acts 20. The preacher emphasizes that Israel's downfall was their rejection of God as their shepherd and their turning to other gods. He also highlights the transition from the old Israel to the new Israel in the Gospel of John, specifically focusing on chapter 10, which is known as the chapter of the good shepherd and his sheep. The sermon concludes with the idea that God had to forsake Israel due to their rejection of him as their shepherd.
Christian Maturity
By Denny Kenaston1.6K1:27:13MaturityROM 15:132TI 1:12HEB 5:13HEB 13:201PE 1:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of applying the Word of God in our lives. He encourages Christians to mature in their faith by allowing the Word of God to shape their hearts and help them discern between good and evil. The speaker shares his personal experience of starting a writing business and the challenges he faced in the business side of things. He also highlights the value of trials in our lives, as they can lead to growth and a deeper reliance on God. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to persevere through difficult times and trust in God's perfecting work in their lives.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K54:15Heavenly Calling1SA 8:7JHN 10:14JHN 10:27HEB 3:5HEB 12:18HEB 13:201PE 2:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the true purpose of God's Church through Christ Jesus. He highlights that in this dispensation, believers have come into all that was foreshadowed in Israel of old. The speaker explains that God's great purpose in His Church is often misunderstood by many Christians, leading to a deplorable state of Christianity. He urges believers to seek true instruction and knowledge of what God has called them unto, emphasizing the need to go beyond head knowledge and allow these truths to penetrate their hearts.
The Purpose of the Covenant
By Bill Stafford1.3K58:13CovenantGEN 1:26HEB 4:3HEB 13:20In this sermon, the preacher explores the concept of the blood covenant and its significance in the relationship between God and man. The sermon begins by emphasizing that God's covenant with man is based on bringing man into a proper relationship with Him. The preacher highlights the importance of understanding that God writes from the future backwards, meaning that He has already fixed history according to His plan. The sermon also discusses the ruin that man experienced when he encountered another will, brought into the earth by Satan, which is self-will and conceit. The preacher references Isaiah 14 to illustrate this point.
Christian Appearance (Part 2)
By Paul Lloyd1.1K1:36:17Modest DressMAT 6:33HEB 13:17HEB 13:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the seriousness of a murder trial and the importance of proper attire in court. He uses this analogy to highlight the gravity of spiritual matters and the need for believers to be dressed appropriately in their faith. The preacher urges the congregation to prioritize their eternal salvation over personal honor or pleasure. He also encourages them to be examples of modesty and plainness in their dress, reflecting their commitment to God. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the condition of one's heart is ultimately in God's hands, and believers should strive to have a heart that is turned towards Him.
God Raised Your Great Shepherd From the Dead
By John Piper95640:18HEB 13:20
This sermon reflects on the speaker's journey as a pastor, highlighting key moments from their candidating sermon to their final day of employment. The focus is on the importance of God's presence, the significance of Easter, and the pillars of faith that have sustained the congregation for over three decades. The text from Hebrews 13:20-21 is used to emphasize God's role as the God of peace, the reconciling God, the covenant-keeping God, the shepherding God, the sanctifying God, and the Christ-exalting God.
Studies in Zechariah 12 Zechariah 13:
By John W. Bramhall73243:13GEN 3:24ZEC 13:7MAT 6:33JHN 10:11HEB 13:20In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the profound impact of seeing Jesus on the cross for the first time as a young sinner. The sermon then delves into the significance of verse seven in the book of Zechariah, which reveals the humanity and deity of Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus, as the good shepherd, willingly faced the judgment of God on behalf of humanity. The sermon also discusses the scattering of the sheep of Israel and the future gathering of all believers by Jesus.
(Radical Jesus) 23 Radical Sacrifice
By Glenn Meldrum62426:12SacrificeHEB 13:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and significance of Christ's radical sacrifice. Through his sacrifice, Christ accomplished the work of redemption and opened the doors of heaven for sinners. The preacher highlights the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector as a powerful illustration of the atonement and the way to obtain salvation and help from God. The sermon also discusses the importance of applying these truths to our everyday lives, emphasizing the need for sacrifice in living a life of compassion.
The Church: How Jesus Builds It #6 - Being Equipped for Ministry
By Bob Hoekstra53938:03HEB 13:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of humility in ministry. He explains that we are unable to produce anything that makes ministry effective on our own, but our sufficiency comes from God. The New Covenant, which is based on grace, provides all that we need for ministry, including spiritual life, fruit, transformation, and effectiveness. The speaker also highlights the role of God in equipping us for ministry, emphasizing that it is ultimately a work of God on us and through us. The sermon concludes with a benedictory prayer from Hebrews 13:20-21, expressing the desire for God to make us complete in every good work to do His will.
Is Muhammad a True Prophet of God?
By Sam Shamoun0ProphecyTruth in FaithNUM 23:23DEU 18:20MAT 23:34LUK 10:17JHN 6:27JHN 8:44HEB 13:201JN 2:221JN 5:9REV 14:6Sam Shamoun presents six propositions that challenge the belief in Muhammad as a true prophet of God, urging Muslims to reflect on these claims. He argues that Muhammad's teachings contradict the messages of previous prophets, particularly regarding the divinity of Jesus Christ, and highlights instances where Muhammad's actions and teachings appear inconsistent or erroneous. Shamoun emphasizes that true prophecy must align with the established revelations and warns against accepting any message that contradicts the core tenets of the Christian faith. He concludes that Muhammad's contradictions and the nature of his teachings disqualify him as a true prophet of God.
Of the Part Which the Father Takes in the Covenant.
By John Gill0The Role of the Father in SalvationCovenant TheologyISA 49:6JER 31:34JHN 10:28JHN 17:12ROM 8:32CO 5:18EPH 1:4TIT 1:2HEB 10:5HEB 13:20John Gill expounds on the role of God the Father in the covenant of grace, emphasizing that He initiates and prescribes the terms of the covenant, including the sending of Christ as the mediator. The Father not only proposes the work of redemption but also ensures the safety and preservation of the elect, promising them salvation through Christ's obedience and sacrifice. Gill highlights the Father's authority in the covenant, detailing the responsibilities assigned to Christ, including His incarnation, obedience to the law, and atonement for sin. The sermon underscores the promises made to both Christ and the elect, illustrating the depth of God's commitment to His covenant people. Ultimately, Gill affirms that the covenant secures eternal life and grace for those chosen by God.
Steadfastness in Conduct
By Duncan Campbell0SteadfastnessConduct in FaithJOB 16:19PRO 24:21HEB 11:5HEB 13:20Duncan Campbell emphasizes the importance of steadfastness in conduct, urging believers to live in a way that reflects their faith and pleases God. He draws on biblical examples such as Enoch, Elisha, and Barnabas to illustrate how consistent and godly conduct can influence others and glorify God. Campbell warns against the dangers of neglecting prayer and the need for a disciplined life that seeks God's presence, as our actions serve as a testimony to the world. He concludes that true discipleship involves imitating Christ and living out our faith in practical ways, as our conduct can either draw others to God or lead them astray.
The Church - Transition From the Natural to the Spiritual
By T. Austin-Sparks0The ChurchSpiritual TransformationZEC 13:7MAT 26:31JHN 14:27JHN 20:22ACT 20:28ROM 15:331CO 15:45COL 1:20HEB 2:11HEB 13:20T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transition of the Church from a natural to a spiritual entity, highlighting that true believers are those disillusioned with worldly hopes and ambitions, now gathered on a heavenly basis. He explains that the Church serves as a witness to the Resurrection of Christ, embodying a spiritual corporate body that thrives on the peace established by His blood. The Holy Spirit governs the Church, empowering it as a new creation, while faith is essential for true fellowship with the risen Lord. Ultimately, the Church is portrayed as a family, united under the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of believers, reflecting the divine nature of Christ.
Make You Perfect in Every Good Work
By A.B. Simpson0Adjustment to God's WillSpiritual FulfillmentHEB 13:20A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of being 'adjusted' in every good work as expressed in Hebrews 13:20-21. He explains that true adjustment involves aligning ourselves with God's will and the circumstances around us, rather than trying to change them to fit our desires. This adjustment leads to spiritual rest, power, and freedom, allowing us to fulfill God's plan for our lives. Simpson encourages believers to seek God's fullness and to be used by Him in every aspect of life, ultimately leading to joy and glory in His presence.
Prayer - Hebrews 13:20, 21, Part 2
By A.W. Pink0Covenant of GraceResurrectionHEB 13:20A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of Christ's resurrection as a legal act of divine justice, highlighting that God the Father, as the supreme Judge, acquitted Christ after He bore the sins of His people. The resurrection is portrayed not merely as a display of divine power but as a fulfillment of the everlasting covenant, confirming that Christ's sacrifice was accepted and peace established between God and humanity. Pink explains that through Christ's resurrection, believers are assured of their own deliverance and the fulfillment of God's promises, as Christ serves as the great shepherd of the sheep. The sermon encourages believers to approach God with confidence, knowing that the God of peace is committed to their spiritual growth and well-being. Ultimately, Pink calls for a faith that rests on the objective truth of God's promises, which are guaranteed by Christ's resurrection.
Prayer - Hebrews 13:20, 21, Part 3
By A.W. Pink0PrayerHolinessHEB 13:20A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of prayer in seeking God's perfection in our good works, highlighting that it is through the 'God of peace' and the resurrection of Jesus that believers are empowered to fulfill God's will. He explains that the everlasting covenant not only secures salvation but also promotes holiness and obedience among God's people. Pink stresses the necessity of divine assistance in performing good works, as human efforts alone are insufficient. He encourages believers to pray for restoration and spiritual vigor, recognizing that true peace comes from living in accordance with God's will. Ultimately, he concludes with a doxology, ascribing glory to both God the Father and Jesus Christ for their roles in our salvation and sanctification.
Entire Holiness Attainable
By Randolph S. Foster0MAT 5:6LUK 10:27ROM 6:22ROM 8:3EPH 3:141TH 5:23HEB 12:14HEB 13:201PE 1:16REV 14:5Randolph Sinks Foster delves into the attainability of the high state of moral and spiritual excellence described in the preceding chapter of Isaiah. He emphasizes the importance of seeking proof from the Bible as the foundation of religious tenets, highlighting that holiness is not only a present duty and privilege but also an achievable state in this life. Through numerous direct and inferential proofs from various passages, Foster argues that holiness is not only taught but also experienced, making it a central truth of the Christian faith. He challenges believers to embrace the possibility of attaining holiness, as rejecting this doctrine would lead to dire consequences and render God's requirements meaningless.
Thou Message From the Skies! Ray for the Rayless Heart!
By Phoebe Palmer0LUK 14:28ROM 6:192CO 1:22HEB 13:201PE 1:15Phoebe Palmer preaches about the journey of consecration and surrender to God, emphasizing the importance of counting the cost and entering into an everlasting covenant with the Lord. Through deliberate resolve and a hallowed sense of consecration, one can experience a deep conviction of being wholly the Lord's and a divine assurance of being recognized in heaven. This journey leads to a state of being 'wholly thine,' where every tie to earth is severed, and the heart is fully surrendered to God, realizing that true holiness is found in complete devotion and conformity to the will of God.
Paul a Pattern of Prayer
By J. Wilbur Chapman0MRK 11:24JHN 14:14EPH 1:15EPH 3:17PHP 1:9COL 1:91TH 5:232TH 3:16HEB 11:6HEB 13:20JAS 5:161JN 1:9J. Wilbur Chapman preaches on the power of prayer, emphasizing Jesus' assurance that anything asked in His name will be done. Chapman highlights the importance of belief in Christ, faith in His promises, confession and forsaking of sins, and the exercise of faith in prayer. He draws inspiration from Paul's prayers for spiritual blessings such as Pentecost, perception, purity, power, perseverance, perfectness, and peace, guiding believers on how to pray effectively and align their will with God's.
Evangelical Perfection
By Thomas Cook0GEN 17:1DEU 30:6MAT 5:48MRK 1:17EPH 4:13PHP 3:12PHP 3:152TI 3:17HEB 13:201JN 4:18Thomas Cook preaches on the Scriptural terms 'holiness,' 'perfect love,' and 'perfection,' explaining that they all refer to the same state of grace. He emphasizes that perfect love represents the moral atmosphere in which a sanctified Christian lives, while perfection signifies spiritual completeness achieved when all internal struggles are overcome. Cook discusses the importance of understanding the term 'perfect' in a spiritual context, as it is frequently used in the Bible to describe human character under the influence of grace. He clarifies that while absolute perfection belongs only to God, evangelical perfection is attainable in the present life through continuous growth and development in love and service to God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now the God of peace - We have often seen that peace among the Hebrews signifies prosperity of every kind. The God of peace is the same as the God of all blessedness, who has at his disposal all temporal and eternal good; who loves mankind, and has provided them a complete salvation. Brought again from the dead our Lord - As our Lord's sacrificial death is considered as an atonement offered to the Divine justice, God's acceptance of it as an atonement is signified by his raising the human nature of Christ from the dead; and hence this raising of Christ is, with the utmost propriety, attributed to God the Father, as this proves his acceptance of the sacrificial offering. That great Shepherd of the sheep - This is a title of our blessed Lord, given to him by the prophets; so Isa 40:11; He shall feed his flock like a shepherd; He shall gather the lambs with his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those which are with young: and Eze 34:23; I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them; even my servant David, (i.e. the beloved, viz. Jesus), and he shall feed them, and be their shepherd: and Zac 13:7; Awake, O sword, against my shepherd - smite the shepherd, and the flock shall be scattered. In all these places the term shepherd is allowed to belong to our blessed Lord; and he appropriates it to himself, Joh 10:11, by calling himself the good Shepherd, who, lays down his life for the sheep. Through the blood of the everlasting covenant - Some understand this in the following way, that "God brought back our Lord from the dead on account of his having shed his blood to procure the everlasting covenant." Others, that the Lord Jesus became the great Shepherd and Savior of the sheep by shedding his blood to procure and ratify the everlasting covenant." The sense, however, will appear much plainer if we connect this with the following verse: "Now the God of peace, who brought again from the dead, our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, make you, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, perfect in every good work to do his will." The Christian system is termed the everlasting covenant, to distinguish it from the temporary covenant made with the Israelites at Mount Sinai; and to show that it is the last dispensation of grace to the world, and shall endure to the end of time.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Concluding prayer. God of peace--So Paul, Rom 15:33; Rom 16:20; Co2 13:11; Phi 4:9; Th1 5:23; Th2 3:16. The Judaizing of the Hebrews was calculated to sow seeds of discord among them, of disobedience to their pastors (Heb 13:17), and of alienation towards Paul. The God of peace by giving unity of true doctrine, will unite them in mutual love. brought again from the dead--Greek, "brought up," &c.: God brought the Shepherd; the Shepherd shall bring the flock. Here only in the Epistle he mentions the resurrection. He would not conclude without mentioning 'the connecting link between the two truths mainly discussed; the one perfect sacrifice and the continual priestly intercession--the depth of His humiliation and the height of His glory--the "altar" of the cross and the ascension to the heavenly Holy of Holies. Lord Jesus--the title marking His person and His Lordship over us. But Heb 13:21, "through Jesus Christ." His office, as the Anointed of the Spirit, making Him the medium of communicating the Spirit to us, the holy unction flowing down from the Head on the members (compare Act 2:36). great-- (Heb 4:14). shepherd of the sheep--A title familiar to his Hebrew readers, from their Old Testament (Isa 63:11; Septuagint): primarily Moses, antitypically Christ: already compared together, Heb 3:2-7. The transition is natural from their earthly pastors (Heb 13:17), to the Chief Pastor, as in Pe1 5:1-4. Compare Eze 34:23 and Jesus' own words, Joh 10:2, Joh 10:11, Joh 10:14. through the blood--Greek, "in," in virtue of the blood (Heb 2:9); it was because of His bloody death for us, that the Father raised and crowned Him with glory. The "blood" was the seal of the everlasting covenant entered into between the Father and Son; in virtue of the Son's blood, first Christ was raised, then Christ's people shall be so (Zac 9:11, seemingly referred to here; Act 20:28). everlasting--The everlastingness of the covenant necessitated the resurrection. This clause, "the blood of the everlasting covenant," is a summary retrospect of the Epistle (compare Heb 9:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now the God of peace,.... This is the concluding part of the epistle, which is ended with a prayer, made up of very suitable petitions for the Hebrews; and as the apostle desires them to pray for him and other ministers, he, in turn, and by way of example, prays for them: and he addresses God, as "the God of peace"; who is so called, because of his concern in the peace and reconciliation of his people; because he is the giver of conscience peace to them; because he is the author of all felicity and prosperity, temporal and spiritual; the promoter of peace and concord among saints, and at last brings them to eternal peace; See Gill on Rom 15:33, a consideration of this gives boldness at the throne of grace; furnishes out a reason why blessings asked for may be expected; has a tendency to promote peace among brethren; may bear up saints under a sense of infirmity and imperfection, in prayer and other duties; and be an encouragement to them under Satan's temptations, and all afflictions. The Arabic version makes the God of peace to be Christ himself; whereas Christ is manifestly distinguished from him in the next verse; and even in that version, reading the words thus, "now; the God of peace raised from the dead Jesus the Shepherd of the sheep, magnified by the blood of the everlasting covenant; Jesus, I say, our Lord confirm you, &c. through Jesus Christ"; for which version there is no foundation in the original text. The God of peace is manifestly God the Father, who is distinguished from Christ his Son: that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus; who died for the sins of his people; was buried, and lay under the power of death for some time; but was raised from the dead by his Father; though not exclusive of himself, and the Spirit of holiness; in the same body in which he suffered and died; as the firstfruits of his people, and as their Lord and Saviour, head and surety, for their justification, and as a pledge of their resurrection. The apostle addresses the God and Father of Christ in prayer, under this consideration, to observe his power and ability to help in the greatest distress, and in the most difficult and desperate case; to encourage faith and hope in him, when things are at the worst, and most discouraging; to comfort the saints under afflictions, in a view of their resurrection; to engage them to regard a risen Christ, and things above, and to expect life and immortality by him: that great Shepherd of the sheep: the people of God, whom the Father has chosen, and given to Christ; for whom he has laid down his life; and whom the Spirit calls by his grace, and sanctifies; to whom Christ has a right, by his Father's gift, his own purchase, and the power of grace: these being partakers of his grace, are called "sheep", because they are harmless and inoffensive in their lives and conversations; and yet are exposed to danger; but meek and patient under sufferings; are weak and timorous of themselves; are clean, being washed in the blood of Christ; are sociable in their communion with one another; are profitable, though not to God, yet to men; are apt to go astray, and are liable to diseases: they are also called sheep, and are Christ's sheep before conversion; see Joh 10:16 and Christ, he is the Shepherd of them, who in all respects discharges the office of a shepherd to them, diligently and faithfully; See Gill on Joh 10:16, here he is called, "that great Shepherd"; being the man, God's fellow, equal to him, the great God and our Saviour; and having a flock which, though comparatively is a little one, is a flock of souls, of immortal souls, and is such a flock as no other shepherd has; hence he is called the Shepherd and Bishop of souls: and his abilities to feed them are exceeding great; he has a perfect knowledge of them; all power to protect and defend them; a fulness of grace to supply them; and he takes a diligent care of them: and this great Person so described was raised from the dead, through the blood of the everlasting covenant: for the sense is not, that God is the God of peace, through that blood, though it is true that peace is made by it; nor that Christ becomes the Shepherd of the sheep by it, though he has with it purchased the flock of God; nor that the chosen people become his sheep through it, though they are redeemed by it, and are delivered out of a pit wherein is no water, by the blood of this covenant; but that Christ was brought again from the dead through it; and it denotes the particular influence that it had upon his resurrection, and the continued virtue of it since. The "covenant" spoken of is not the covenant of works made with Adam, as the federal head of his natural seed; there was no mediator or shepherd of the sheep that had any concern therein; there was no blood in that covenant; nor was it an everlasting one: nor the covenant of circumcision given to Abraham; though possibly there may be some reference to it; or this may be opposed to that, since the blood of circumcision is often called by the Jews , "the blood of the covenant" (d): nor the covenant on Mount Sinai, though there may be an allusion to it; since the blood which was then shed, and sprinkled on the people, is called the blood of the covenant, Exo 24:8 but that was not an everlasting covenant, that has waxed old, and vanished away; but the covenant of grace is meant, before called the new and better covenant, of which Christ is the surety and Mediator; see Heb 7:22. This is an "everlasting one"; it commenced from everlasting, as appears from the everlasting love of God, which is the rise and foundation of it; from the counsels of God of old, which issued in it; from Christ's being set up from everlasting, as the Mediator of it; from the promises of it which were made before the world began; and from the spiritual blessings of grace in it, which were given to God's elect in Christ before the foundation of it: moreover, it will endure for ever; nor will it be succeeded by any other covenant: and the blood of Christ may be called the blood of it, because the shedding of it is a principal article in it; by it the covenant is ratified and confirmed; and all the blessings of it come through it, as redemption, peace, pardon, justification, and even admission into heaven itself; and Christ, through it, was brought again from the dead, because by it he fulfilled his covenant engagements, satisfied divine justice, and abolished sin, yea, death itself. (d) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 135. 1. & T. Hieros. Yebamot, fol. 9. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:20-21 Benedictions were an important element of letters, speeches, and sermons. The author of Hebrews weaves a number of important themes from the book into his benediction. • The image of our Lord Jesus as the great Shepherd of the sheep (cp. Ps 23) communicates God’s provision for and protection of his people (see also John 10:11-18; 1 Pet 2:25) and is specifically tied here to an eternal covenant.