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Hebrews 13:9
Verse
Context
Christ’s Unchanging Nature
8Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.9Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace and not by foods of no value to those devoted to them.10We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Be not carried about - Μη περιφερεσθε· Be not whirled about. But ABCD, and almost every other MS. of importance, with the Syriac, Coptic, Arabic, Vulgate, and several of the Greek fathers, have μη παραφερεσθε, be not carried away, which is undoubtedly the true reading, and signifies here, do not apostatize; permit not yourselves to be carried off from Christ and his doctrine. Divers and strange doctrines - Διδαχαις, ποικιλαις· Variegated doctrines; those that blended the law and the Gospel, and brought in the Levitical sacrifices and institutions in order to perfect the Christian system. Remember the old covenant is abolished; the new alone is in force. Strange doctrines, διδαχαις ξεναις, foreign doctrines; such as have no apostolical authority to recommend them. That the heart be established with grace - It is well to have the heart, the mind, and conscience, fully satisfied with the truth and efficacy of the Gospel; for so the word χαρις should be understood here, which is put in opposition to βρωμασιν, meats, signifying here the Levitical institutions, and especially its sacrifices, these being emphatically termed meats, because the offerers were permitted to feast upon them after the blood had been poured out before the Lord. See Lev 7:15; Deu 12:6, Deu 12:7. Which have not profited them - Because they neither took away guilt, cleansed the heart, nor gave power over sin.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
about--rather, as oldest manuscripts read, "carried aside"; namely, compare Eph 4:14. divers--differing from the one faith in the one and the same Jesus Christ, as taught by them who had the rule over you (Heb 13:7). strange--foreign to the truth. doctrines--"teachings." established with grace; not with meats--not with observances of Jewish distinctions between clean and unclean meats, to which ascetic Judaizers added in Christian times the rejection of some meats, and the use of others: noticed also by Paul in Co1 8:8, Co1 8:13; Co1 6:13; Rom 14:17, an exact parallel to this verse: these are some of the "divers and strange doctrines" of the previous sentence. Christ's body offered once for all for us, is our true spiritual "meat" to "eat" (Heb 13:10), "the stay and the staff of bread" (Isa 3:1), the mean of all "grace." which have not profited--Greek, "in which they who walked were not profited"; namely, in respect to justification, perfect cleansing of the conscience, and sanctification. Compare on "walked," Act 21:21; namely, with superstitious scrupulosity, as though the worship of God in itself consisted in such legal observances.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines,.... The word "divers" may denote the variety and multitude of other doctrines; referring either to the various rites and ceremonies of the law, or to the traditions of the elders, or to the several doctrines of men, whether Jews or Gentiles; whereas the doctrine of the Scriptures, of Christ, and his apostles, is but one; it is uniform, and all of a piece; and so may likewise denote the disagreement of other doctrines with the perfections of God, the person and offices of Christ, the Scriptures of truth, the analogy of faith, and even with themselves: and "strange" doctrines may design such as were never taught by God, nor are agreeable to the voice of Christ, nor to be found in the word of God; and which are new, and unheard of, by the apostles and churches of Christ; and appear in a foreign dress and habit: wherefore the apostle exhorts the believing Hebrews not to be "carried about with them"; as light clouds and meteors in the air, by every wind: for so to be, is to be like children; and discovers great ignorance, credulity, levity, inconstancy, uncertainty, fluctuation, and inconsistency: for it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; with the doctrine of grace, which is food for faith, and does not leave men at uncertainties about things; but establishes the heart, with respect to the love and favour of God, and builds souls upon the foundation, Christ; so that they are not at a loss about the expiation of sin, justification, and salvation; but firmly look for, and expect eternal happiness by Christ, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God: not with meats; referring to the distinction of meats among the Jews; or the sacrifices ate both by the priests and by the people; or the whole ceremonial law which stood in divers meats and drinks: which have not profited them that have been occupied therein; they were only profitable to the body; and could be of no other use to the soul, when they were in force, than as they led to Christ, and were regarded by believers; for they were of no advantage to hypocrites and carnal men; they could not sanctify, nor justify, nor cheer the spirits, nor establish the heart; and are of no manner of service at all, since the death of Christ, whereby the whole ceremonial law is abolished.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:9-10 Since Jesus does not change (13:8), it is unwise for a believer to be attracted by strange, new ideas. The false teachings in view seemed to involve rules about food. In some branches of Judaism, certain ritual meals were understood as providing God’s grace to those participating. Some in the community might have been tempted to abandon the Christian community by participating in Jewish fellowship meals. These Jewish meals at times encouraged participants to focus on the Jerusalem altar. The author reminds his hearers that we have an altar of which those under the old covenant have no part—Christ’s sacrifice (7:27-28; 8:13; 9:11-14; 10:11-14).
Hebrews 13:9
Christ’s Unchanging Nature
8Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.9Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace and not by foods of no value to those devoted to them.10We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Discipline - Personal Life, Questions and Answers
By Hoseah Wu1.5K59:18DisciplineMAT 6:33MAT 14:15HEB 8:10HEB 13:7HEB 13:9HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of ministers who preach the Word of God and encourages the listeners to imitate their faith. He highlights the need for discipline in studying the Bible and suggests reading through whole books for a better understanding. The speaker also urges the audience to engage in evangelism and visiting those in prison as acts of self-discipline for the sake of the gospel. Additionally, he addresses the issue of contentment and warns against the love of money in an affluent society. The sermon concludes with a reminder to obey and support leaders, acknowledging that they may be criticized but encouraging diligence in serving the Lord and His people.
Exhortations Considerations Revelations
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:07:21ExhortationMAT 6:33EPH 1:4HEB 13:5HEB 13:91PE 1:2In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a paragraph from the book of Peter, specifically verses 13 to 21. The speaker highlights the expectations, considerations, and revelations found within this paragraph. The expectations include being prayerful and guarding the mind against the devil's influence. The considerations revolve around the Father, emphasizing the need to be sober and hopeful for the grace that will be revealed through Jesus Christ. The speaker also references Paul's letter to the Philippians, emphasizing the importance of not being anxious and guarding the mind against negative thoughts.
Three Gifts Under the Tree
By Jim Cymbala1.4K36:23GiftsPSA 27:5PSA 51:10JER 13:23MAT 5:8JHN 13:34PHP 2:12HEB 13:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses three unusual gifts that God has given to believers. These gifts are a pure heart, a steadfast spirit, and a willing spirit. The speaker shares the testimony of a former heroin addict who found Christ and emphasizes the depth of God's love. The speaker also highlights the importance of surrendering to God and allowing Him to shape us according to His will. These gifts were purchased for us on the "blackest Friday" when Jesus hung on the cross, and they are part of the salvation that Jesus provided. The speaker encourages listeners to open these gifts and rely on God's power to live a righteous life.
The Gospel of the Grace of God (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:00:29ZEC 12:10JHN 1:17ACT 20:24ROM 6:14ROM 8:3HEB 13:91PE 5:12JUD 1:4This sermon delves into the concept of sin, the choices we face between earthly and heavenly things, and the innate sinful nature in humanity. It emphasizes the need to understand the true grace of God, which delivers us from sin and transforms our hearts, contrasting it with a false grace that permits sin. The speaker highlights the seriousness of sin in God's eyes, drawing attention to Eden and Calvary as pivotal points to grasp the gravity of sin and the sacrificial love of Jesus.
The Grace of God
By Bob Hoekstra99659:16ACT 20:32ROM 1:17ROM 5:2COL 2:62TI 2:1TIT 2:11HEB 13:9JAS 4:6This sermon focuses on the importance of growing in the grace of God, emphasizing the need to be established in grace for daily living. It explores the concepts of humility and faith as relational realities that develop as we grow in our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. The sermon highlights the access to grace through faith and the necessity of relying on the strength and power of Jesus Christ for living a life pleasing to Him.
Free From Sin by the Life of Christ
By Zac Poonen6461:13:43MAT 11:28ROM 6:14ROM 7:4ROM 8:13ROM 8:28ROM 8:31ROM 8:38GAL 2:18EPH 2:6HEB 13:9This sermon delves into the journey of believers from being bound by the law to being married to Christ, emphasizing the importance of dying to the law and living in partnership with Jesus. It highlights the transformation from struggling under the law's strictness to experiencing grace and freedom in Christ, leading to a life of victory over sin through the power of the Holy Spirit. The speaker encourages a deep dive into Romans 1 to 8, urging listeners to seek understanding through meditation, study, and prayer for a truly godly life.
Entering the Full New Covenant
By Zac Poonen5961:15:06JHN 6:38PHP 2:13HEB 8:10HEB 13:9This sermon emphasizes the progression in the new covenant relationship with God. It starts with the forgiveness of sins and justification, then moves to knowing God as a loving Father, and finally to having God's law written in our hearts to love Him and others. The goal is to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit in loving unconditionally and living out God's will.
Hebrews Chapter 14 Concluding Messages
By A.B. Simpson0Faith in ActionThe Great ShepherdPHP 2:12COL 1:29HEB 13:1HEB 13:5HEB 13:9HEB 13:13HEB 13:15A.B. Simpson concludes his sermon on Hebrews Chapter 14 by emphasizing the practical applications of faith, which is rooted in love, contentment, and service to others. He highlights the importance of being steadfast in faith, submitting to spiritual leaders, and engaging in mutual prayer, all while recognizing Jesus as the Great Shepherd who reconciles us to God through the everlasting covenant. Simpson encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ, allowing God's work within them to manifest in good deeds that please Him. The sermon culminates in a powerful benediction, affirming that it is God who equips us for every good work, leading to a life of holiness and praise.
Some New Mystery Bagged
By A.W. Tozer0Avoiding False TeachingsFaithfulness to ScripturePSA 119:105PRO 18:15ACT 17:211CO 3:11COL 2:81TI 6:202TI 4:3HEB 13:9JAS 1:52PE 3:16A.W. Tozer addresses the tendency of some Christians to seek out new and obscure teachings instead of focusing on the foundational truths of the faith. He warns against the allure of chasing after mysteries that are not rooted in Scripture, which can lead to confusion and distraction from the core tenets of Christianity. Tozer emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to God's Word and understanding its profound truths without succumbing to the temptation of novelty for the sake of reputation. He encourages believers to seek wisdom and understanding while avoiding the pitfalls of dogmatism based on uncertain interpretations.
He Set Up the Pillars Before the Temple, . . .
By F.B. Meyer0Strength in WeaknessEstablishment in Christ2CH 3:17PSA 18:2ISA 41:10MAT 16:18ROM 1:11EPH 3:17PHP 4:13COL 2:7HEB 13:91PE 5:10F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of the pillars Jachin and Boaz, which symbolize God's establishment and strength in our lives. He explains that Jesus has established redemption, the Church, and our standing before God, ensuring that we are rooted in faith and love. Meyer encourages believers to seek Jesus for strength and stability, highlighting the importance of abiding in Him to remain steadfast. He reminds us that our strength comes from Christ, who empowers us to face life's challenges. Ultimately, the sermon calls for reliance on Jesus as our source of strength and support.
Steadfastness of Character
By Duncan Campbell0Christian CharacterSteadfastnessGEN 17:1PSA 139:23PRO 24:21MAT 5:48LUK 9:23JHN 16:8ROM 14:7PHP 2:151TH 5:21HEB 13:9Duncan Campbell emphasizes the importance of steadfastness of character in the Christian life, urging believers to resist the temptation of change and to hold fast to their convictions. He references Proverbs 24:21 and highlights the need for Christians to be blameless and harmless, as stated in Philippians 2:15, while also calling for a sacrificial commitment to follow Christ. Campbell warns against the superficiality of contemporary evangelism and the dangers of conforming to worldly standards, advocating for a life that reflects the authority and anointing of God. He encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, which empowers them to live out their faith authentically and impactfully. Ultimately, he calls for a return to a sense of urgency and the fear of God in the pursuit of holiness and effective witness.
5. Grace Upon Grace
By Chuck Smith0GraceForgivenessMAT 5:7MAT 6:15JHN 8:10GAL 6:1HEB 13:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the vital role of God's grace in our lives, asserting that without it, none of us would stand a chance. He critiques the harsh legalism found in some churches that neglects the need for mercy and restoration, advocating instead for a ministry that mirrors Jesus' grace and compassion. Smith illustrates the importance of forgiveness and the necessity of extending grace to others, especially those who have fallen, as a reflection of the grace we have received. He encourages believers to err on the side of grace rather than judgment, highlighting the transformative power of God's grace in restoring lives. Ultimately, he calls for a church that prioritizes healing and restoration over condemnation.
The Law of Humility
By Zac Poonen0GraceHumilityPSA 103:2MAT 1:21JHN 8:32ROM 6:14ROM 16:201CO 1:262CO 12:9HEB 13:91PE 5:51JN 1:9Zac Poonen emphasizes the law of humility, explaining that God has established spiritual laws similar to natural laws, such as gravity. He highlights that pride leads to God's opposition, while humility attracts His grace, which is essential for overcoming sin and spiritual challenges. Poonen illustrates this with biblical examples, stressing that true victory in the Christian life comes from being humble and relying on God's grace rather than seeking worldly recognition or authority. He encourages believers to recognize their weaknesses and to seek God's help in humility to experience true freedom from sin. Ultimately, Poonen calls for a deep understanding of grace and the importance of humility in the believer's life.
Epistle 223
By George Fox0GEN 3:15JER 23:29JHN 1:1ROM 5:2EPH 4:13EPH 6:10PHP 1:5HEB 11:6HEB 13:91JN 5:4George Fox preaches about standing firm in the power of God, equipped with spiritual armor and weapons to have victory, access to God, please Him, and maintain unity with one another. He emphasizes the importance of using the Word of God as a sword and being shod with the gospel to combat false teachings and remain in fellowship with God. Fox encourages believers to dwell in righteousness, truth, and justice, and to fearlessly tread on the power of the devil with the power of God.
Steady in Our Walk
By Charles E. Cowman01CO 16:13COL 2:7HEB 13:9JAS 1:61PE 5:10Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of establishing, strengthening, and settling in our relationship with Christ. He emphasizes the need for intellectual understanding and a committed choice to stand in this new relationship without reservation. Just as a broken arm needs to be set and stabilized, God desires to establish His children in faith until it becomes a permanent habit, despite the challenges and trials they may face.
Give Attendance to Reading
By George Warnock0MRK 16:20ACT 16:31ROM 15:81CO 1:62CO 1:21COL 2:7HEB 2:3HEB 13:9The preacher emphasizes the concept of 'Confirmed' (bebaioo) from the Greek word meaning to make sure, certain, and reliable. The writer assures that the word of salvation is guaranteed, firm, and reliable, inspiring confidence and inner solidity. Various Bible verses are cited to show how the word of salvation was confirmed through signs, promises, and the testimony of ear-witnesses, highlighting the importance of not neglecting this great salvation. The sermon stresses the urgency of accepting Christ as the only way to salvation and the grave consequences of neglecting this opportunity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Be not carried about - Μη περιφερεσθε· Be not whirled about. But ABCD, and almost every other MS. of importance, with the Syriac, Coptic, Arabic, Vulgate, and several of the Greek fathers, have μη παραφερεσθε, be not carried away, which is undoubtedly the true reading, and signifies here, do not apostatize; permit not yourselves to be carried off from Christ and his doctrine. Divers and strange doctrines - Διδαχαις, ποικιλαις· Variegated doctrines; those that blended the law and the Gospel, and brought in the Levitical sacrifices and institutions in order to perfect the Christian system. Remember the old covenant is abolished; the new alone is in force. Strange doctrines, διδαχαις ξεναις, foreign doctrines; such as have no apostolical authority to recommend them. That the heart be established with grace - It is well to have the heart, the mind, and conscience, fully satisfied with the truth and efficacy of the Gospel; for so the word χαρις should be understood here, which is put in opposition to βρωμασιν, meats, signifying here the Levitical institutions, and especially its sacrifices, these being emphatically termed meats, because the offerers were permitted to feast upon them after the blood had been poured out before the Lord. See Lev 7:15; Deu 12:6, Deu 12:7. Which have not profited them - Because they neither took away guilt, cleansed the heart, nor gave power over sin.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
about--rather, as oldest manuscripts read, "carried aside"; namely, compare Eph 4:14. divers--differing from the one faith in the one and the same Jesus Christ, as taught by them who had the rule over you (Heb 13:7). strange--foreign to the truth. doctrines--"teachings." established with grace; not with meats--not with observances of Jewish distinctions between clean and unclean meats, to which ascetic Judaizers added in Christian times the rejection of some meats, and the use of others: noticed also by Paul in Co1 8:8, Co1 8:13; Co1 6:13; Rom 14:17, an exact parallel to this verse: these are some of the "divers and strange doctrines" of the previous sentence. Christ's body offered once for all for us, is our true spiritual "meat" to "eat" (Heb 13:10), "the stay and the staff of bread" (Isa 3:1), the mean of all "grace." which have not profited--Greek, "in which they who walked were not profited"; namely, in respect to justification, perfect cleansing of the conscience, and sanctification. Compare on "walked," Act 21:21; namely, with superstitious scrupulosity, as though the worship of God in itself consisted in such legal observances.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines,.... The word "divers" may denote the variety and multitude of other doctrines; referring either to the various rites and ceremonies of the law, or to the traditions of the elders, or to the several doctrines of men, whether Jews or Gentiles; whereas the doctrine of the Scriptures, of Christ, and his apostles, is but one; it is uniform, and all of a piece; and so may likewise denote the disagreement of other doctrines with the perfections of God, the person and offices of Christ, the Scriptures of truth, the analogy of faith, and even with themselves: and "strange" doctrines may design such as were never taught by God, nor are agreeable to the voice of Christ, nor to be found in the word of God; and which are new, and unheard of, by the apostles and churches of Christ; and appear in a foreign dress and habit: wherefore the apostle exhorts the believing Hebrews not to be "carried about with them"; as light clouds and meteors in the air, by every wind: for so to be, is to be like children; and discovers great ignorance, credulity, levity, inconstancy, uncertainty, fluctuation, and inconsistency: for it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; with the doctrine of grace, which is food for faith, and does not leave men at uncertainties about things; but establishes the heart, with respect to the love and favour of God, and builds souls upon the foundation, Christ; so that they are not at a loss about the expiation of sin, justification, and salvation; but firmly look for, and expect eternal happiness by Christ, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God: not with meats; referring to the distinction of meats among the Jews; or the sacrifices ate both by the priests and by the people; or the whole ceremonial law which stood in divers meats and drinks: which have not profited them that have been occupied therein; they were only profitable to the body; and could be of no other use to the soul, when they were in force, than as they led to Christ, and were regarded by believers; for they were of no advantage to hypocrites and carnal men; they could not sanctify, nor justify, nor cheer the spirits, nor establish the heart; and are of no manner of service at all, since the death of Christ, whereby the whole ceremonial law is abolished.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:9-10 Since Jesus does not change (13:8), it is unwise for a believer to be attracted by strange, new ideas. The false teachings in view seemed to involve rules about food. In some branches of Judaism, certain ritual meals were understood as providing God’s grace to those participating. Some in the community might have been tempted to abandon the Christian community by participating in Jewish fellowship meals. These Jewish meals at times encouraged participants to focus on the Jerusalem altar. The author reminds his hearers that we have an altar of which those under the old covenant have no part—Christ’s sacrifice (7:27-28; 8:13; 9:11-14; 10:11-14).