Hebrews 13:16

But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

But {G1161} to do good {G2140} and {G2532} to communicate {G2842} forget {G1950} not {G3361}: for {G1063} with such {G5108} sacrifices {G2378} God {G2316} is well pleased {G2100}.

But don’t forget doing good and sharing with others, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Commentary

Hebrews 13:16 provides a concise yet profound exhortation for believers, emphasizing that practical acts of kindness and generosity are a form of worship highly pleasing to God. Following a series of ethical instructions, this verse succinctly captures the essence of active Christian living in the New Covenant.

Context

This verse is part of the concluding chapter of the Epistle to the Hebrews, which transitions from deep theological exposition about the supremacy of Christ and the New Covenant to practical applications for daily Christian life. Chapter 13 offers various admonitions, including hospitality, remembering prisoners, honoring marriage, and contentment, before reminding readers of their spiritual leaders and the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ. Verses immediately preceding this one speak of going "without the camp" (identifying with Christ's suffering) and offering the "sacrifice of praise" (Hebrews 13:15). In this context, "doing good" and "communicating" (sharing) are presented as integral components of the spiritual sacrifices that replace the ritualistic animal offerings of the Old Covenant.

Key Themes

  • Active Benevolence: The command "to do good" underscores that faith is not merely intellectual assent but must be expressed through tangible acts of kindness, compassion, and moral uprightness in the world.
  • Generosity and Sharing: The instruction "to communicate" highlights the importance of sharing resources, time, and fellowship with others, especially those in need. This is a communal and outward-focused expression of love.
  • Spiritual Sacrifice: The verse explicitly calls these actions "sacrifices." Unlike the animal sacrifices of the Levitical law, these are spiritual offerings of a transformed life, demonstrating genuine faith and love, which are infinitely more valuable to God.
  • Divine Pleasure: The assurance "for with such sacrifices God is well pleased" reveals God's delight in the practical outworking of faith through service and sharing, affirming that these actions are true worship.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "communicate" in this verse translates the Greek term koinōnia (κοινωνία). This word is rich in meaning, encompassing concepts such as "fellowship," "partnership," "sharing," and "contribution." It implies a deep sense of community and mutual participation, particularly in sharing material possessions or support with others. Thus, "to communicate" here means far more than just verbal interaction; it denotes active, tangible sharing and generosity within the Christian community and beyond.

The phrase "such sacrifices" directly contrasts with the animal sacrifices of the Old Testament. The author of Hebrews has consistently argued for the superiority of Christ's one-time sacrifice. Here, the emphasis shifts to the "spiritual sacrifices" that believers are now called to offer. This echoes the sentiment found in other New Testament passages, such as the call to present our bodies as "a living sacrifice" in Romans 12:1, and the concept of believers as a holy priesthood offering "spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God" in 1 Peter 2:5.

Practical Application

Hebrews 13:16 serves as a timeless reminder that our faith is meant to be active and outward-focused. It encourages believers to:

  • Prioritize Good Works: Actively seek opportunities to do good, showing kindness and compassion to all, regardless of their background.
  • Practice Generous Sharing: Be ready and willing to share resources, time, and talents with those in need, fostering a spirit of mutual support and community.
  • View Service as Worship: Understand that acts of charity and benevolence are not merely good deeds but are genuine expressions of worship that bring pleasure to God. They are a tangible demonstration of our love for Him and for our neighbor, fulfilling the essence of the law (compare with Matthew 22:39).

In a world often focused on self-interest, this verse calls Christians to a counter-cultural life of self-giving, reflecting the very nature of Christ.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (41 votes)

    But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.

  • Romans 12:13 (37 votes)

    Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

  • Galatians 6:10 (36 votes)

    As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

  • Hebrews 6:10 (32 votes)

    For God [is] not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

  • Hebrews 13:1 (26 votes)

    ¶ Let brotherly love continue.

  • Hebrews 13:2 (26 votes)

    Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

  • 1 Timothy 6:18 (23 votes)

    That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;