Hebrews 13:18

¶ Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.

Pray {G4336} for {G4012} us {G2257}: for {G1063}{G3754} we trust {G3982} we have {G2192} a good {G2570} conscience {G4893}, in {G1722} all things {G3956} willing {G2309} to live {G390} honestly {G2573}.

Keep praying for us, for we are certain that we have a clear conscience and want to conduct ourselves properly in everything we do.

Pray for us; we are convinced that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.

Pray for us: for we are persuaded that we have a good conscience, desiring to live honorably in all things.

Commentary

Hebrews 13:18 is a concise yet profound request from the author of Hebrews to his readers, emphasizing the importance of prayer and the commitment to live a life of integrity. It serves as a personal appeal embedded within a broader chapter of practical Christian exhortations.

Context

Hebrews 13 concludes this powerful epistle, moving from deep theological exposition to practical Christian living. Following instructions regarding brotherly love, hospitality, marriage, and contentment, the author turns to a direct appeal for prayer. This request for intercessory prayer is characteristic of New Testament apostles and leaders, highlighting their reliance on the spiritual support of the community. It underscores the reciprocal relationship between leaders and congregants, where mutual prayer strengthens the body of Christ.

Key Themes

The Call to Intercessory Prayer

The simple plea, "Pray for us," reveals the humility and dependence of the author (and likely his associates) on God's grace and the spiritual support of the believers. This is a common theme in apostolic writings, where leaders frequently ask for prayer for their ministry, boldness, and protection. It highlights the biblical principle of intercessory prayer as a vital component of Christian community and spiritual warfare. Similar requests can be found from Paul, such as in Colossians 4:3 and 1 Thessalonians 5:25.

The Importance of a Good Conscience

The author's assertion, "for we trust we have a good conscience," speaks to an inner conviction of moral uprightness and sincerity. A good conscience is one that is clear before God and free from guilt, reflecting an unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness. It's not a boast of perfection, but an assurance of their genuine intent to live according to God's will. This inner integrity provides a foundation for their request for prayer, suggesting they are living lives worthy of support.

Living with Integrity

To be "willing to live honestly" (KJV) or "honorably" speaks to a deliberate and consistent commitment to ethical conduct in all aspects of life. This isn't merely about avoiding wrongdoing, but actively pursuing what is right, commendable, and transparent. It emphasizes moral uprightness and genuine character that stands up to scrutiny. This commitment to living honorably is a testimony to their faith and a prerequisite for effective ministry and witness.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV's "honestly" translates the Greek word kalōs (καλῶς), which more broadly means "well," "rightly," "honorably," or "beautifully." It implies not just an absence of wrong, but a positive and commendable quality of life. It suggests living in a manner that is morally excellent, fitting for believers, and demonstrating integrity in both public and private spheres. This goes beyond mere legality to a life that is truly admirable and reflective of Christ.

Practical Application

Hebrews 13:18 offers timeless lessons for believers today. Firstly, it reminds us of the profound power and necessity of intercessory prayer, urging us to pray earnestly for our spiritual leaders, missionaries, and for one another within the body of Christ. Secondly, it challenges us to cultivate a "good conscience" by striving for genuine integrity and moral uprightness in all our dealings. Our commitment to live "honorably" should be a consistent and deliberate choice, reflecting the character of Christ to a watching world. This verse serves as a powerful call to personal accountability and mutual support within the Christian community, emphasizing that righteous living and fervent prayer go hand in hand.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:25

    Brethren, pray for us.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:1

    ¶ Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified, even as [it is] with you:

  • 1 Timothy 1:5

    ¶ Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and [of] a good conscience, and [of] faith unfeigned:

  • Colossians 4:3

    Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

  • Acts 24:16

    And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and [toward] men.

  • Romans 15:30

    ¶ Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in [your] prayers to God for me;

  • 1 Peter 3:21

    ¶ The like figure whereunto [even] baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: