Hebrews -- Holding on to Jesusਨਮੂਨਾ

Reflecting on Hebrews

The closing words of Hebrews offer a wonderful blessing that also speaks to our purpose as followers of Jesus:

Hebrews 13:20–21 (NIV): “Now may the God of peace … equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ.” This is not just a benediction; it’s a prayer for action. It’s a reminder that God is not finished with us. Through Jesus, God is working in you, equipping, refining, and maturing you.

The author continues in Hebrews 13:22 (NIV): “Bear with my word of exhortation, for in fact I have written to you quite briefly.” This tells us the writer’s intention: to offer encouragement. In Acts 13:15, the phrase “word of exhortation” refers to a sermon. So it’s fitting to view Hebrews as a written sermon, meant to strengthen weary believers, both then and now.

To help you carry the message of Hebrews with you, here is a brief summary of its seven core themes:

1. The supremacy of Jesus
Jesus is greater than angels, prophets, Moses, and the Levitical priesthood.

2. The New Covenant is better
The Old Covenant was based on the law; the New Covenant is based on grace through Christ’s sacrifice.

3. Faith and perseverance are essential
We are called to run the race with endurance, keeping our eyes on Jesus.

4. Strong warnings against apostasy
Hebrews warns of the danger of drifting from the faith or returning to old systems of religion.

5. Jesus as our High Priest
He intercedes for us and offers a once-for-all sacrifice that grants us direct access to God.

6. A unified redemptive history
Jesus fulfills the Old Testament’s promises, types, and shadows, revealing the continuity of God’s redemptive plan.

7. Living in right relationship with others
The final chapter teaches us how to live in community—with love, hospitality, submission, and integrity.

Hebrews leaves us with both confidence and challenge. Confidence in who Jesus is and what He has done, and the challenge to press on, hold fast to our confession of faith, not grow weary, and live lives that reflect the glory of our Savior.

Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”