TRV
Oecumenius
Medieval · AD 800–1500 · 987 passages across 19 books
On Hebrews
Hebrews 12:27
And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.
"as of things that are made," that is, those suffering according to nature. For since it takes a beginning and reaches an end, he says, as of things that are made. For since it has been made, and it began from motion, that which comes from non-being to being will reasonably be shaken and moved again in the change.
"so that the things which cannot be shaken may remain." The creation shakes and alternates, so that the unshakable may remain; that is, those that will no longer be shaken or changed; as if it were saying: Therefore, it shakes and alternates the creation, so that in the future the unshakable may remain in its place, no longer subject to shaking or changing. The unchanging, therefore, rightly will no longer be subject to shaking. For once it has received the first change, it will be incorruptible.
"so that the things which cannot be shaken may remain." The creation shakes and alternates, so that the unshakable may remain; that is, those that will no longer be shaken or changed; as if it were saying: Therefore, it shakes and alternates the creation, so that in the future the unshakable may remain in its place, no longer subject to shaking or changing. The unchanging, therefore, rightly will no longer be subject to shaking. For once it has received the first change, it will be incorruptible.
Hebrews 12:28-29
· 2 passages
Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:
“Therefore, receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken.” If creation is unshakable, much more the kingdom of heaven, which you are about to receive as a reward for the sufferings here for Christ. Since the sufferings are the cause of the kingdom, let us give thanks to God for them.
“by which we may serve.” For which, with thanksgiving;for it is by giving thanks to God even for tribulations and temptations that one serves Him acceptably.
“with reverence and godly fear.” And it is not enough, Paul says, to be merely grateful, unless there is also shame, both towards all and towards God, accompanying piety.
“by which we may serve.” For which, with thanksgiving;for it is by giving thanks to God even for tribulations and temptations that one serves Him acceptably.
“with reverence and godly fear.” And it is not enough, Paul says, to be merely grateful, unless there is also shame, both towards all and towards God, accompanying piety.
“For our God is a consuming fire.” By saying this, Paul either wishes to frighten them not to be ungrateful, nor to complain about their tribulations, lest they suffer the wrath and punishment of God; or to comfort them; as if he were saying: let us give thanks in our tribulations; for we have a Master who is able to consume our adversaries.
Hebrews 13:1-3
Let brotherly love continue.
"Let brotherly love continue." Let it be unwavering, do not allow it to escape from you. "Do not forget to show hospitality." For as they had been plundered of their possessions, they might perhaps have been more sparing. But by saying, let it remain, and do not forget, it shows that they had long possessed these virtues, but now, due to the continuous hardships, they were in danger of becoming indifferent to these virtues; therefore, Paul again encourages them towards these things. "in this way, some have been unaware while they entertained angels." Thus, Paul says, great is hospitality, so that it became a cause for those around Abraham and Lot to receive the angels. (Gen. 18) And the fact that they were unaware, instead of not knowing, that the guests were angels, and yet they received them so hospitably; therefore this great reward for them; for if they had known, they would have done nothing great. "as bound." For he who is bound to someone, even if he wishes to forget, cannot. "and those who suffer adversity." Of those who are suffering either in prisons, or in famine, or in an…
"Let brotherly love continue." Let it be unwavering, do not allow it to escape from you.
"Do not forget to show hospitality." For as they had been plundered of their possessions, they might perhaps have been more sparing. But by saying, let it remain, and do not forget, it shows that they had long possessed these virtues, but now, due to the continuous hardships, they were in danger of becoming indifferent to these virtues; therefore, Paul again encourages them towards these things.
"in this way, some have been unaware while they entertained angels." Thus, Paul says, great is hospitality, so that it became a cause for those around Abraham and Lot to receive the angels. (Gen. 18) And the fact that they were unaware, instead of not knowing, that the guests were angels, and yet they received them so hospitably; therefore this great reward for them; for if they had known, they would have done nothing great.
"as bound." For he who is bound to someone, even if he wishes to forget, cannot.
"and those who suffer adversity." Of those who are suffering either in prisons, or in famine, or in another affliction. For if someone were to consider that he himself is surrounded by a body that suffers similarly, he would have more compassion for them, both because of sympathy, and because of the fear that he too might experience similar sufferings from inhumanity.
"Do not forget to show hospitality." For as they had been plundered of their possessions, they might perhaps have been more sparing. But by saying, let it remain, and do not forget, it shows that they had long possessed these virtues, but now, due to the continuous hardships, they were in danger of becoming indifferent to these virtues; therefore, Paul again encourages them towards these things.
"in this way, some have been unaware while they entertained angels." Thus, Paul says, great is hospitality, so that it became a cause for those around Abraham and Lot to receive the angels. (Gen. 18) And the fact that they were unaware, instead of not knowing, that the guests were angels, and yet they received them so hospitably; therefore this great reward for them; for if they had known, they would have done nothing great.
"as bound." For he who is bound to someone, even if he wishes to forget, cannot.
"and those who suffer adversity." Of those who are suffering either in prisons, or in famine, or in another affliction. For if someone were to consider that he himself is surrounded by a body that suffers similarly, he would have more compassion for them, both because of sympathy, and because of the fear that he too might experience similar sufferings from inhumanity.
Hebrews 13:4
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
"Marriage is honorable in all things." How much indeed is the discourse about moderation! For also earlier, recalling sanctification, Paul spoke about this, and again after this he will speak about prostitutes and adulterers. Therefore, in all things, that is, not honorable in this part and not in another, but entirely throughout honorable and unblemished, let it be. In all ways and at all times; not in distress, but in ease let it not be.
"but God will judge fornicators and adulterers." And here, along with punishments, is the prohibition of fornication and adultery. For God will judge, or rather condemn. And rightly so. For if marriage is permitted, and it is lawful to fulfill desire without sin, what excuse will there be for adulterers and fornicators?
"but God will judge fornicators and adulterers." And here, along with punishments, is the prohibition of fornication and adultery. For God will judge, or rather condemn. And rightly so. For if marriage is permitted, and it is lawful to fulfill desire without sin, what excuse will there be for adulterers and fornicators?
Hebrews 13:5-6
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
"Let your conversation be without greed." Paul did not say, "Do not possess anything"; (and it is clear from what he leads to: Being content with what is present, whatever it may be.) but rather, "You have a philosophical and ungreedy opinion." For he himself has said: "for he has said, 'I will never leave you, nor forsake you.'" Since your possessions have been seized; for Paul said: And you have received the confiscation of your possessions with joy (Heb. 10:34); he advises them to be content with what is present; lest they say: With what present things shall we be content? We have been seized, and we have nothing; he says: but even if you have been seized, you can be content with what remains, even if it is very little, because of the one who says, God: 'I will not forsake you,' that is, I will not leave you, nor will I abandon you. "So that we may boldly say." If he does not allow it, God does not abandon either, therefore, he says, we must speak boldly the words of David: "The Lord is my helper." (Ps. 118:6-7) For if God helps, one should not be afraid of those who seize or thre…
"Let your conversation be without greed." Paul did not say, "Do not possess anything"; (and it is clear from what he leads to: Being content with what is present, whatever it may be.) but rather, "You have a philosophical and ungreedy opinion." For he himself has said:
"for he has said, 'I will never leave you, nor forsake you.'" Since your possessions have been seized; for Paul said: And you have received the confiscation of your possessions with joy (Heb. 10:34); he advises them to be content with what is present; lest they say: With what present things shall we be content? We have been seized, and we have nothing; he says: but even if you have been seized, you can be content with what remains, even if it is very little, because of the one who says, God: 'I will not forsake you,' that is, I will not leave you, nor will I abandon you.
"So that we may boldly say." If he does not allow it, God does not abandon either, therefore, he says, we must speak boldly the words of David: "The Lord is my helper." (Ps. 118:6-7) For if God helps, one should not be afraid of those who seize or threaten."
"for he has said, 'I will never leave you, nor forsake you.'" Since your possessions have been seized; for Paul said: And you have received the confiscation of your possessions with joy (Heb. 10:34); he advises them to be content with what is present; lest they say: With what present things shall we be content? We have been seized, and we have nothing; he says: but even if you have been seized, you can be content with what remains, even if it is very little, because of the one who says, God: 'I will not forsake you,' that is, I will not leave you, nor will I abandon you.
"So that we may boldly say." If he does not allow it, God does not abandon either, therefore, he says, we must speak boldly the words of David: "The Lord is my helper." (Ps. 118:6-7) For if God helps, one should not be afraid of those who seize or threaten."
Hebrews 13:7-8
Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
"Remember your leaders." Of the teachers. This Paul also advised the Thessalonians, so that they hold them in honor exceedingly. (1 Thess. 5:13) And just as they share in the word, so if it is possible, to help them in their bodily needs. For this is hinted at by the phrase, “remember”. It also encourages them to imitate them. “consider the outcome of their.” Reflecting, examining. This can be said both about the deceased and the living; concerning the deceased: reflecting, Paul says, on how they exited life, what kind of conduct they had in the world, imitate their faith; for a pure life is based on faith. For if they had not believed in what was to come, but had hesitated, they would not have demonstrated the best way of life. Concerning their way of life: Reflecting, he says, on how they conduct themselves well in life, become imitators of their faith. "the outcome of their way of life." The community until the end. "Jesus Christ yesterday and today." Some among them were saying, The crucified one, the proclaimed and expected Christ does not exist. Another, they say, will come. Th…
"Remember your leaders." Of the teachers. This Paul also advised the Thessalonians, so that they hold them in honor exceedingly. (1 Thess. 5:13) And just as they share in the word, so if it is possible, to help them in their bodily needs. For this is hinted at by the phrase, “remember”. It also encourages them to imitate them.
“consider the outcome of their.” Reflecting, examining. This can be said both about the deceased and the living; concerning the deceased: reflecting, Paul says, on how they exited life, what kind of conduct they had in the world, imitate their faith; for a pure life is based on faith. For if they had not believed in what was to come, but had hesitated, they would not have demonstrated the best way of life. Concerning their way of life: Reflecting, he says, on how they conduct themselves well in life, become imitators of their faith.
"the outcome of their way of life." The community until the end.
"Jesus Christ yesterday and today." Some among them were saying, The crucified one, the proclaimed and expected Christ does not exist. Another, they say, will come. Therefore, Paul says, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." By "yesterday," he indicates the past ages; by "today," the present; by "the same forever," the future. As if he said: Another Christ will not come. For this one who has come is the one who was before, and he is and will be forever.
“consider the outcome of their.” Reflecting, examining. This can be said both about the deceased and the living; concerning the deceased: reflecting, Paul says, on how they exited life, what kind of conduct they had in the world, imitate their faith; for a pure life is based on faith. For if they had not believed in what was to come, but had hesitated, they would not have demonstrated the best way of life. Concerning their way of life: Reflecting, he says, on how they conduct themselves well in life, become imitators of their faith.
"the outcome of their way of life." The community until the end.
"Jesus Christ yesterday and today." Some among them were saying, The crucified one, the proclaimed and expected Christ does not exist. Another, they say, will come. Therefore, Paul says, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." By "yesterday," he indicates the past ages; by "today," the present; by "the same forever," the future. As if he said: Another Christ will not come. For this one who has come is the one who was before, and he is and will be forever.
Hebrews 13:9
Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.
"diverse and strange teachings." Paul says, do not be led astray by teachings that go beyond doctrines, neither different nor strange ones. For the doctrine itself is also recognizable; but to be carried away, as from the metaphor of those who are mad, who are carried here and there, has been said.
"for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace." For the heart established by the grace of God will not be led astray by diverse and strange teachings, but will keep to the truth.
"not by foods." Therefore, by faith, which is active through the grace of God, the heart must be strengthened, not being strengthened in regard to the observance of foods; for those who walk in these observances, that is, those who keep them, have gained nothing from them.It is said that some among them observe the food according to Jewish customs.
"for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace." For the heart established by the grace of God will not be led astray by diverse and strange teachings, but will keep to the truth.
"not by foods." Therefore, by faith, which is active through the grace of God, the heart must be strengthened, not being strengthened in regard to the observance of foods; for those who walk in these observances, that is, those who keep them, have gained nothing from them.It is said that some among them observe the food according to Jewish customs.
Hebrews 13:10
We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.
"We have an altar." Since Paul said that we should not observe foods, lest they think our offerings are shameful by being unobserved, he says: For do we not also have observances? But not of foods, rather of our altar, namely, of the unbloody sacrifice of the life-giving body. For even the very high priests of the Jews are not permitted to partake of this; for they who serve in the tabernacle, as it were, in the type and shadow, and not in truth.
"from which those who serve the tabernacle have no authority to eat." Not such as the Jewish ones, Paul says, and ours; so that it is not even lawful for the high priest to partake of them.
"from which those who serve the tabernacle have no authority to eat." Not such as the Jewish ones, Paul says, and ours; so that it is not even lawful for the high priest to partake of them.
Hebrews 13:11
For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp.
"For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into." Then Paul shows the solemn things among the Jews, being types of our own, and he says that those sacrifices were nothing, of which the people were prevented from partaking; but neither do the high priests of our law partake of our sacrifice; for those were the ones that they typified. Just as in the sacrifices offered for sin, the blood was brought into the holy place by the high priest; the bodies were burned outside the camp; so also Christ, suffering for the sins of the world, brought his own blood into the holy place to the Father as high priest; but his body was crucified outside the city of Jerusalem, because the bodies of the sacrifices for sin were burned outside the camp. Therefore, this blood is brought in by our high priest to our altar. Thus, it is not permitted for the Jewish high priests to eat from that altar.
Hebrews 13:12
· 2 passages
Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.
This is addressed to those who would wonder, How do you say you have an altar? For what was offered upon it? And indeed, Christ himself, whom you claim was offered above and below, that he became a sacrifice for the world and an offering, was not himself sacrificed upon your altar; for it is evident that he suffered outside the city of Jerusalem. Therefore, to these, Paul says, Yes, he suffered outside, but through this it is rather established that we have an altar. For even among them, the Jews, the bodies of those being sacrificed are not burned on their altars, but outside the camp. And again, for this reason he suffered outside the gate, so that he might sanctify all, and not only the priests. If he became a sacrifice for all, how is it not also an altar? The phrase, in order to sanctify the people, gives another meaning. Paul says that those who serve at the tabernacle have no authority to eat from our altar, not because it is impossible for them, but because they consider themselves unworthy in their own opinion; since from the love of Christ, they are not only not hindered, b…
This is addressed to those who would wonder, How do you say you have an altar? For what was offered upon it? And indeed, Christ himself, whom you claim was offered above and below, that he became a sacrifice for the world and an offering, was not himself sacrificed upon your altar; for it is evident that he suffered outside the city of Jerusalem. Therefore, to these, Paul says, Yes, he suffered outside, but through this it is rather established that we have an altar. For even among them, the Jews, the bodies of those being sacrificed are not burned on their altars, but outside the camp. And again, for this reason he suffered outside the gate, so that he might sanctify all, and not only the priests. If he became a sacrifice for all, how is it not also an altar?
The phrase, in order to sanctify the people, gives another meaning. Paul says that those who serve at the tabernacle have no authority to eat from our altar, not because it is impossible for them, but because they consider themselves unworthy in their own opinion; since from the love of Christ, they are not only not hindered, but also have suffered for this very reason. For he says, in order to sanctify the people, not this one, or that one, but the whole people, and make them have authority to eat from his altar, he suffered outside the gate.
The phrase, in order to sanctify the people, gives another meaning. Paul says that those who serve at the tabernacle have no authority to eat from our altar, not because it is impossible for them, but because they consider themselves unworthy in their own opinion; since from the love of Christ, they are not only not hindered, but also have suffered for this very reason. For he says, in order to sanctify the people, not this one, or that one, but the whole people, and make them have authority to eat from his altar, he suffered outside the gate.
"Therefore Jesus also."
Hebrews 13:13
· 2 passages
Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.
"Let us then go to him outside." Since Christ suffered outside the gate, let us go out to Him outside the camp, that is, outside the world, bearing nothing worldly, neither earthly nor carrying the filth of the earth. This, outside the gate, that is, outside the world, bearing His reproach, that is, suffering the same things as He did, if He should ask; for this indicates, bearing the reproach he endured, which He Himself endured through both the mockeries and the scorn.
It seems that the divine Paul, outside the camp, outside the world, speaks; for he takes us out of worldly life.
Hebrews 13:14-15
For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.
"for we have no lasting city here." Therefore, we must willingly choose the death for Christ; and especially because these cities are not ours, but we must seek another, the one that remains; for these are perishing. "Through him then." As for the high priest according to the flesh, let us offer up to the Father a sacrifice of praise, that is, thanksgiving. For we give thanks to the Father, as he has given his Son to sanctify us. This is for the weak. Since the grace of the Son, it is clear that the honor is equal; for he says, that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. (Jn. 5:23) "that is, the fruit of lips." What then is the fruit of lips? Prayers, hymns, requests to God. For when he said, "sacrifice," let them not think that he is speaking of sacrifices made through animals, Paul explained himself. He says, I mean the sacrifices that are without blood, those made through lips, those in prayers and hymns and supplications. "that acknowledge his name." Acknowledge with the lipsHis name, that is, giving thanks knowing that He died for our sins. That is, confessing wit…
"for we have no lasting city here." Therefore, we must willingly choose the death for Christ; and especially because these cities are not ours, but we must seek another, the one that remains; for these are perishing.
"Through him then." As for the high priest according to the flesh, let us offer up to the Father a sacrifice of praise, that is, thanksgiving. For we give thanks to the Father, as he has given his Son to sanctify us. This is for the weak. Since the grace of the Son, it is clear that the honor is equal; for he says, that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. (Jn. 5:23)
"that is, the fruit of lips." What then is the fruit of lips? Prayers, hymns, requests to God. For when he said, "sacrifice," let them not think that he is speaking of sacrifices made through animals, Paul explained himself. He says, I mean the sacrifices that are without blood, those made through lips, those in prayers and hymns and supplications.
"that acknowledge his name." Acknowledge with the lipsHis name, that is, giving thanks knowing that He died for our sins. That is, confessing with our lips His name.
"Through him then." As for the high priest according to the flesh, let us offer up to the Father a sacrifice of praise, that is, thanksgiving. For we give thanks to the Father, as he has given his Son to sanctify us. This is for the weak. Since the grace of the Son, it is clear that the honor is equal; for he says, that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. (Jn. 5:23)
"that is, the fruit of lips." What then is the fruit of lips? Prayers, hymns, requests to God. For when he said, "sacrifice," let them not think that he is speaking of sacrifices made through animals, Paul explained himself. He says, I mean the sacrifices that are without blood, those made through lips, those in prayers and hymns and supplications.
"that acknowledge his name." Acknowledge with the lipsHis name, that is, giving thanks knowing that He died for our sins. That is, confessing with our lips His name.
Hebrews 13:16-19
But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
"Do not forget the good deeds and the fellowship." Paul speaks of good deeds and fellowship as the same. "God is pleased." That is, He is pleased; for the term “is pleased” [εὐαρεστεῖται] indicates to be well-pleased. Therefore, it is necessary not only to offer the fruit of the lips, but also such sacrifices, like those of thanksgiving and good deeds. For the grateful person, it is evident that he is also generous, knowing what he is worthy of. "Obey your leaders." Paul speaks about bishops. Earlier, having praised them in saying that they are faithful and worthy of being rivalled, in saying: "Considering the outcome of their conduct, imitate their faith," (Heb. 13:7) he then adds, "Obey." What then? Should one obey every ruler? One should not obey the one who believes wrongly; but one should obey the one who lives poorly, yet believes well. For he says, "be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach." (Matt. 23:3) And concerning those corrupted regarding the faith he says: "Do not be led astray by various and strang…
"Do not forget the good deeds and the fellowship." Paul speaks of good deeds and fellowship as the same.
"God is pleased." That is, He is pleased; for the term “is pleased” [εὐαρεστεῖται] indicates to be well-pleased. Therefore, it is necessary not only to offer the fruit of the lips, but also such sacrifices, like those of thanksgiving and good deeds. For the grateful person, it is evident that he is also generous, knowing what he is worthy of.
"Obey your leaders." Paul speaks about bishops. Earlier, having praised them in saying that they are faithful and worthy of being rivalled, in saying: "Considering the outcome of their conduct, imitate their faith," (Heb. 13:7) he then adds, "Obey." What then? Should one obey every ruler? One should not obey the one who believes wrongly; but one should obey the one who lives poorly, yet believes well. For he says, "be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach." (Matt. 23:3) And concerning those corrupted regarding the faith he says: "Do not be led astray by various and strange teachings." (Heb. 13:9) Why is that? Because the one who lives poorly would not advise others to live poorly; for even he, doing these things, is ashamed; and it is clear that he is trying in every way to hide what he does; but the one who is wicked regarding the faith will proclaim wickedness to the people.
"and submit to them." The stretched persuasion through the phrase, "and submit to them," indicates that they may also serve them through deeds, if it is necessary.
"for they are keeping watch over your souls." Let the leaders hear that, just as it is necessary for the people to be obedient, so too must the priest be keeping watch for the sins of the people; for the leaders are subject to punishment for the sins of the people.
"Let them do this with joy." They will certainly stay awake for your souls; but whether you are obedient or not will prepare them to do this either with joy or with groaning, which will be unprofitable for you, that is to say, no advantage to you, useless; for God will help.
"Pray for us." Because some were slandering the apostle, as teaching apostasy from the law, many of the Hebrews had a strong distaste toward him; therefore, Paul did not even place his name at the beginning of the letter, so that they would not find the name of Paul and then not read the letter. Therefore, he now defends himself to them. And first, he asks them to pray for him, as we are accustomed to ask from those who love us. Then he also shows himself to be innocent; for we are sure, he says, that we have a clear conscience; that is, we have done nothing with hypocrisy, but our conscience is clear, and we are not aware that we have plotted against you, or have done anything evil against you, or have slandered you.
"desiring to act honorably in all things." That is, in all things, living without offense and without causing scandal; not proclaiming a departure from the law, as some slander, but rather transitioning from the letter and the shadow to the spirit and the truth (Jn. 4:24); which is not a departure, but rather a fulfillment and promotion of the law.
"I urge you to do this more sincerely." What is this? To pray for us. This was something they greatly loved, to want to pray for them sincerely and with all diligence, so that they might quickly be restored.
"in order that I may be restored to you sooner." This was said because Paul had a good conscience, wanting to persuade them in person; which he would not have done if he were aware of any wrongdoing in himself.
"God is pleased." That is, He is pleased; for the term “is pleased” [εὐαρεστεῖται] indicates to be well-pleased. Therefore, it is necessary not only to offer the fruit of the lips, but also such sacrifices, like those of thanksgiving and good deeds. For the grateful person, it is evident that he is also generous, knowing what he is worthy of.
"Obey your leaders." Paul speaks about bishops. Earlier, having praised them in saying that they are faithful and worthy of being rivalled, in saying: "Considering the outcome of their conduct, imitate their faith," (Heb. 13:7) he then adds, "Obey." What then? Should one obey every ruler? One should not obey the one who believes wrongly; but one should obey the one who lives poorly, yet believes well. For he says, "be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach." (Matt. 23:3) And concerning those corrupted regarding the faith he says: "Do not be led astray by various and strange teachings." (Heb. 13:9) Why is that? Because the one who lives poorly would not advise others to live poorly; for even he, doing these things, is ashamed; and it is clear that he is trying in every way to hide what he does; but the one who is wicked regarding the faith will proclaim wickedness to the people.
"and submit to them." The stretched persuasion through the phrase, "and submit to them," indicates that they may also serve them through deeds, if it is necessary.
"for they are keeping watch over your souls." Let the leaders hear that, just as it is necessary for the people to be obedient, so too must the priest be keeping watch for the sins of the people; for the leaders are subject to punishment for the sins of the people.
"Let them do this with joy." They will certainly stay awake for your souls; but whether you are obedient or not will prepare them to do this either with joy or with groaning, which will be unprofitable for you, that is to say, no advantage to you, useless; for God will help.
"Pray for us." Because some were slandering the apostle, as teaching apostasy from the law, many of the Hebrews had a strong distaste toward him; therefore, Paul did not even place his name at the beginning of the letter, so that they would not find the name of Paul and then not read the letter. Therefore, he now defends himself to them. And first, he asks them to pray for him, as we are accustomed to ask from those who love us. Then he also shows himself to be innocent; for we are sure, he says, that we have a clear conscience; that is, we have done nothing with hypocrisy, but our conscience is clear, and we are not aware that we have plotted against you, or have done anything evil against you, or have slandered you.
"desiring to act honorably in all things." That is, in all things, living without offense and without causing scandal; not proclaiming a departure from the law, as some slander, but rather transitioning from the letter and the shadow to the spirit and the truth (Jn. 4:24); which is not a departure, but rather a fulfillment and promotion of the law.
"I urge you to do this more sincerely." What is this? To pray for us. This was something they greatly loved, to want to pray for them sincerely and with all diligence, so that they might quickly be restored.
"in order that I may be restored to you sooner." This was said because Paul had a good conscience, wanting to persuade them in person; which he would not have done if he were aware of any wrongdoing in himself.
Hebrews 13:20-25
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
"the God of peace." First, asking for their prayers and honoring them even in this way, Paul himself also prays for them. Since, he says, God is peace, you ought not to be stirred up against me from mere gossip and to have hostility. "who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep." Which one? Our Lord, he says, Jesus. He affirms to them a certain word about the resurrection, taking the use from the prophecy of Isaiah (Isa. 40:11). And while there were also other shepherds, minor ones, he said the great one. For many are the prophets and teachers, but one is the instructor, Christ. “by the blood of the eternal covenant.” That is to say, He raised him from the dead who had died, and having poured out his blood, that this might be for us an eternal covenant, that is, not to be cancelled, as the legal one, but everlasting. Thus: He raised him from the dead by the blood of an eternal covenant. For when he was raised, his blood was granted to us for an eternal covenant. For if he had not been raised, his blood would not have been for us a covenant. "equip you in every good w…
"the God of peace." First, asking for their prayers and honoring them even in this way, Paul himself also prays for them. Since, he says, God is peace, you ought not to be stirred up against me from mere gossip and to have hostility.
"who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep." Which one? Our Lord, he says, Jesus. He affirms to them a certain word about the resurrection, taking the use from the prophecy of Isaiah (Isa. 40:11). And while there were also other shepherds, minor ones, he said the great one. For many are the prophets and teachers, but one is the instructor, Christ.
“by the blood of the eternal covenant.” That is to say, He raised him from the dead who had died, and having poured out his blood, that this might be for us an eternal covenant, that is, not to be cancelled, as the legal one, but everlasting. Thus: He raised him from the dead by the blood of an eternal covenant. For when he was raised, his blood was granted to us for an eternal covenant. For if he had not been raised, his blood would not have been for us a covenant.
"equip you in every good work." That is, to fulfill, to perfect. It shows, therefore, that they have begun the good works; they needed to be perfected in them; Paul who also prays for them. But see, that we must begin first, and then ask from God for the end.
"That you do His will." For he who is equipped and filled for every good work, he has the strength to do the will of God. And he says every work, work and faith.
"working in us that which is pleasing in his sight." When He equips us for every good work, to do His will, then He produces in us what is pleasing to Him. And what is pleasing to Him? It is to do His will. And when He said, which is pleasing, He added, in His sight. For we are truly pleasing when we appear good before God, not when we appear so only before men.
"through Jesus Christ." He says, He does what is pleasing to Him, through us as go-betweens. Do you see that everything is of God? This He will do and accomplish for us, what is pleasing to Him, through Christ. For if He wished to be a mediator between God and us, it is fitting that the Father will accomplish what is pleasing to Himself for us through Him.
"bear with the word of encouragement." Gladly accept the encouragement sent to you through the letters from me. Paul does not say, of counsel or exhortation, but, because of the tribulations in which they were, he speaks of encouragement, that is, of consolation, of the call to endure.
"for I have written to you briefly." Briefly, as it relates to what is to be said in the future, there are indeed many things, if everything has been said.
"You should know that our brother Timothy has been released." Rather, they did not have a grudge against Timothy, which is why Paul writes about him. What does it mean, “released”? Either that he was in prison and was released; or that he was being released from Athens, because he was there.
"with whom I shall see you if he comes soon." Timothy was released; but if he comes to me soon, I will see you together with him, coming to you. For it was likely that he had been released, but had not yet gone to Paul.
"Greet all your leaders." See how Paul honors them, for he addresses the leaders through them; for it was more fitting to command the leaders and to address the ones being led through them; but he wisely heals the weaker ones.
"Those from Italy greet you." Therefore, I am so filled with you that not only do I greet you myself, but I also establish such a longing towards you in others, that even from such a distance they desire you, and for this reason, they greet you.
"Grace be with all of you." Since grace is something common, it is prayed for mutually for all, both leaders and those being led. But what is grace? It is the forgiveness of sins, the cleansing, the participation in the Spirit. How can it be with you all? If you do not insult the support of God, sinning and being negligent, if you do not live unworthily of it. For grace remains when we have good works; it departs when we do not live according to the command of the one who gives it to us. But let it be, knowing this, and all that we have received through it, not to conduct ourselves in arrogance towards such great goods bestowed upon us; but through good works glorifying Him, and showing that this grace was not given to ungrateful and thankless people, to have it unyielding in our souls, in Christ Himself, the supporter of our souls. With whom be glory to the Father, together with the Holy Spirit, now and always, and until forever and ever. Amen.
The end, with the aid of divine favor, of the Epistle to the Hebrews.
It was written from Italy by Timothy.
"who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep." Which one? Our Lord, he says, Jesus. He affirms to them a certain word about the resurrection, taking the use from the prophecy of Isaiah (Isa. 40:11). And while there were also other shepherds, minor ones, he said the great one. For many are the prophets and teachers, but one is the instructor, Christ.
“by the blood of the eternal covenant.” That is to say, He raised him from the dead who had died, and having poured out his blood, that this might be for us an eternal covenant, that is, not to be cancelled, as the legal one, but everlasting. Thus: He raised him from the dead by the blood of an eternal covenant. For when he was raised, his blood was granted to us for an eternal covenant. For if he had not been raised, his blood would not have been for us a covenant.
"equip you in every good work." That is, to fulfill, to perfect. It shows, therefore, that they have begun the good works; they needed to be perfected in them; Paul who also prays for them. But see, that we must begin first, and then ask from God for the end.
"That you do His will." For he who is equipped and filled for every good work, he has the strength to do the will of God. And he says every work, work and faith.
"working in us that which is pleasing in his sight." When He equips us for every good work, to do His will, then He produces in us what is pleasing to Him. And what is pleasing to Him? It is to do His will. And when He said, which is pleasing, He added, in His sight. For we are truly pleasing when we appear good before God, not when we appear so only before men.
"through Jesus Christ." He says, He does what is pleasing to Him, through us as go-betweens. Do you see that everything is of God? This He will do and accomplish for us, what is pleasing to Him, through Christ. For if He wished to be a mediator between God and us, it is fitting that the Father will accomplish what is pleasing to Himself for us through Him.
"bear with the word of encouragement." Gladly accept the encouragement sent to you through the letters from me. Paul does not say, of counsel or exhortation, but, because of the tribulations in which they were, he speaks of encouragement, that is, of consolation, of the call to endure.
"for I have written to you briefly." Briefly, as it relates to what is to be said in the future, there are indeed many things, if everything has been said.
"You should know that our brother Timothy has been released." Rather, they did not have a grudge against Timothy, which is why Paul writes about him. What does it mean, “released”? Either that he was in prison and was released; or that he was being released from Athens, because he was there.
"with whom I shall see you if he comes soon." Timothy was released; but if he comes to me soon, I will see you together with him, coming to you. For it was likely that he had been released, but had not yet gone to Paul.
"Greet all your leaders." See how Paul honors them, for he addresses the leaders through them; for it was more fitting to command the leaders and to address the ones being led through them; but he wisely heals the weaker ones.
"Those from Italy greet you." Therefore, I am so filled with you that not only do I greet you myself, but I also establish such a longing towards you in others, that even from such a distance they desire you, and for this reason, they greet you.
"Grace be with all of you." Since grace is something common, it is prayed for mutually for all, both leaders and those being led. But what is grace? It is the forgiveness of sins, the cleansing, the participation in the Spirit. How can it be with you all? If you do not insult the support of God, sinning and being negligent, if you do not live unworthily of it. For grace remains when we have good works; it departs when we do not live according to the command of the one who gives it to us. But let it be, knowing this, and all that we have received through it, not to conduct ourselves in arrogance towards such great goods bestowed upon us; but through good works glorifying Him, and showing that this grace was not given to ungrateful and thankless people, to have it unyielding in our souls, in Christ Himself, the supporter of our souls. With whom be glory to the Father, together with the Holy Spirit, now and always, and until forever and ever. Amen.
The end, with the aid of divine favor, of the Epistle to the Hebrews.
It was written from Italy by Timothy.