Hebrews 13:22

KJV

And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} I beseech {G3870} you {G5209}, brethren {G80}, suffer {G430} the word {G3056} of exhortation {G3874}: for {G1063}{G2532} I have written a letter {G1989} unto you {G5213} in {G1223} few words {G1024}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now I urge you, brothers, to bear with my message of exhortation; for I have written you only briefly.

Berean Standard Bible

I urge you, brothers, to bear with my word of exhortation, for I have only written to you briefly.

American Standard Version

But I exhort you, brethren, bear with the word of exhortation: for I have written unto you in few words.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 13:22 serves as a tender, concluding plea from the author, urging his readers to graciously and patiently receive the message of his letter. This verse encapsulates the epistle's dual nature: it is a profound "word of exhortation" intended to strengthen and guide, yet presented with a humble brevity, underscoring the author's pastoral heart and the concentrated power of divine truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the very end of the Book of Hebrews, forming part of the author's concluding remarks, personal requests, and final benediction. The preceding chapters have meticulously laid out a complex theological argument for the supremacy of Jesus Christ as High Priest and the superiority of the New Covenant over the Old. Following a series of practical admonitions concerning Christian living (e.g., hospitality, marriage, contentment, obedience to leaders in [Hebrews 13:1-17](/hebrews/13-1-17 "Hebrews 13:1-17 - Practical Exhortations")), the author transitions to personal appeals, including a request for prayer in [Hebrews 13:18-19](/hebrews/13-18-19 "Hebrews 13:18-19 - Request for Prayer") and a final blessing in [Hebrews 13:20-21](/hebrews/13-20-21 "Hebrews 13:20-21 - The Great Benediction")). Verse 22, therefore, acts as a final, humble request for the readers to internalize the weighty truths and challenging calls to perseverance that have filled the preceding twelve chapters, framing the entire epistle as a pastoral "word of exhortation."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Hebrews was written to a community of Jewish Christians, likely in Rome or Italy, who were facing significant pressure and persecution. They were tempted to revert to aspects of Judaism, perhaps due to the allure of its established traditions, the familiarity of its rituals, or the desire to escape the social and political ostracization that came with identifying as followers of Christ. The author's primary aim was to prevent apostasy by demonstrating the absolute superiority of Christ's person and work over all aspects of the Old Covenant system—its priesthood, sacrifices, and covenant. The "word of exhortation" was not merely theological discourse but a vital lifeline for believers on the brink of abandoning their faith, designed to fortify their resolve and encourage steadfast endurance in the face of suffering, as highlighted in passages like [Hebrews 10:32-39](/hebrews/10-32-39 "Hebrews 10:32-39 - Endurance in Suffering") and [Hebrews 12:1-3](/hebrews/12-1-3 "Hebrews 12:1-3 - Running the Race with Perseverance")).
* **Key Themes:** This concluding verse contributes to several key themes woven throughout Hebrews. Firstly, it underscores the **pastoral nature and purpose of the epistle**. The author explicitly labels his work a "word of exhortation" (Greek: _logos paraklēseōs_), indicating its primary function as a source of encouragement, comfort, and strong admonition for a struggling community. Secondly, it highlights the **humility and authority of the author**. Despite delivering profound and challenging truths, the author humbly "beseeches" his readers, demonstrating a pastoral heart that seeks their willing reception rather than demanding blind obedience. This aligns with the emphasis on faithful leadership seen in [Hebrews 13:7](/hebrews/13-7 "Hebrews 13:7 - Remember Your Leaders"). Thirdly, the phrase "in few words" subtly points to the **conciseness and potency of divine revelation**. While the epistle is lengthy and deeply theological, the author views it as a condensed message, implying that its truths are so weighty and essential that they could have been expanded even further, yet were presented succinctly for the audience's benefit. This brevity, far from indicating superficiality, emphasizes the concentrated power of the Spirit-inspired message.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **beseech (Greek, _parakaléō_):** This verb (G3870) means "to call near," and by implication, "to invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)." It conveys a sense of earnest appeal, urging, or comforting. It is not a command but a gentle, yet firm, request, revealing the author's pastoral heart and desire for the readers' willing reception of his message.
* **suffer (Greek, _anéchomai_):** This verb (G430) is in the middle voice and means "to hold oneself up against," or figuratively, "to put up with, bear with, endure, forbear." In this context, it implies patiently receiving, tolerating, or enduring the "word of exhortation," even if it contains challenging truths or calls to repentance. It suggests a need for receptivity and open-mindedness.
* **exhortation (Greek, _paráklēsis_):** This noun (G3874) is derived from _parakaléō_ and encompasses a rich range of meanings: "imploration, hortation, solace, comfort, consolation, entreaty." It describes the very essence of the letter's content—a message designed to strengthen, encourage, admonish, and provide comfort to believers facing trials. It is the same root from which "Paraclete" (the Holy Spirit as Comforter/Helper) is derived.
* **few words (Greek, _brachýs_):** This adjective (G1024) literally means "short" (of time, place, quantity, or number). Here, used with the preposition _diá_ (G1223, "through"), it forms the phrase _dia brachéon_ ("through few words" or "in few words"). The author's claim of brevity is relative; Hebrews is a substantial and complex book. However, he implies that the profound, comprehensive truths presented could have been expanded much further, highlighting the concentrated and potent nature of the message he has delivered.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I beseech you, brethren,"**: The author, with a deep sense of pastoral care and humility, makes a direct and earnest appeal to his readers. The term "brethren" (Greek: _adelphós_) emphasizes the familial bond and shared faith, softening the tone of his request and reinforcing his genuine concern for their spiritual well-being. This is not a stern demand but a heartfelt entreaty.
* **"suffer the word of exhortation:"**: This clause contains the core of the author's request. To "suffer" here means to patiently endure, bear with, or graciously receive. The "word of exhortation" (Greek: _logos paraklēseōs_) refers to the entire epistle itself. It is a message intended to provide comfort, encouragement, and strong admonition, urging the readers to persevere in their faith and not fall away. The author desires that they not merely read, but truly embrace and act upon the challenging truths and calls to steadfastness within the letter.
* **"for I have written a letter unto you in few words."**: This explanatory clause provides the reason for the author's plea. The "for" (Greek: _gar_) introduces the justification. By stating he has written "in few words," the author is likely making a relative statement. While Hebrews is extensive, its theological depth and comprehensive treatment of Christ's superiority could have been even more elaborate. The implication is that the message is concise yet packed with immense, vital truth, making it imperative for the readers to give it their full and patient attention. It suggests that the brevity was intentional, perhaps to ensure the message was digestible and impactful, given the urgency of their situation.

#### Literary Devices
The author employs several literary devices in this concluding verse. The primary device is **Plea or Supplication**, as the author uses the verb "beseech" (_parakaléō_) to make a humble, earnest request rather than a command. This establishes a **Pastoral Tone**, emphasizing his loving concern and gentle guidance for his "brethren." There is also an element of **Understatement** in the phrase "in few words." Given the theological depth and length of Hebrews, this statement is clearly a relative one, serving to highlight the concentrated power and essential nature of the truths conveyed, rather than suggesting a superficial treatment. The entire epistle is framed as a **"word of exhortation" (paráklēsis)**, which itself is a rhetorical device defining the genre and purpose of the writing—it is meant to persuade, comfort, and strengthen.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 13:22 beautifully encapsulates the nature of inspired Scripture and the heart of pastoral ministry. It affirms that God's word, even when delivered through human instruments, is a powerful "word of exhortation" designed to comfort, challenge, and guide believers toward perseverance and maturity. The author's humble plea underscores the importance of a receptive heart when engaging with divine truth, recognizing that even challenging admonitions are given for our spiritual good. It also highlights the divine economy of words, where even a seemingly "brief" message can carry immense theological weight and transformative power, demanding diligent attention and application. This verse serves as a timeless reminder that faithful teaching is both authoritative and compassionate, always aiming for the spiritual flourishing of the flock.

* [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed")
* [1 Peter 5:1-2](/1_peter/5-1-2 "1 Peter 5:1-2 - Shepherding the Flock")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:12-14](/1_thessalonians/5-12-14 "1 Thessalonians 5:12-14 - Respect for Leaders and Mutual Exhortation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 13:22 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. First, it challenges us to cultivate a posture of humility and openness when encountering God's Word, especially when it contains "exhortations" that might be difficult to hear or require personal change. Are we truly willing to "suffer"—to patiently receive and internalize—the full counsel of God, even when it confronts our comfort zones or calls us to greater obedience? Second, it reminds us of the vital role of encouragement and biblical teaching within the Christian community. Just as the original recipients needed a "word of exhortation" to persevere amidst trials, so too do we need faithful shepherds and fellow believers who will lovingly challenge, comfort, and guide us through the truths of Scripture. Finally, the author's humble request, despite the weighty authority of his message, serves as a powerful model for all who teach or lead. It demonstrates that effective communication of divine truth is often most impactful when delivered with a spirit of genuine love, humility, and earnest appeal, fostering receptivity rather than resistance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How readily do I "suffer" or patiently receive challenging "words of exhortation" from Scripture or from faithful Christian leaders?**
* **In what ways can I, like the author of Hebrews, offer words of encouragement and truth to others with both conviction and humility?**
* **Considering the "few words" packed with profound truth in Hebrews, how does this encourage me to approach the study of Scripture with greater diligence and appreciation for its concentrated wisdom?**

### FAQ
**Who is the author of Hebrews, and why does he refer to his letter as "in few words"?**

Answer: The author of Hebrews remains anonymous, though various theories suggest figures like Paul, Barnabas, Apollos, or Priscilla. The identity is ultimately less important than the divine inspiration of the message. When the author refers to having written "in few words," it's not a literal statement about the epistle's length, as Hebrews is quite extensive and deeply theological. Rather, it is likely an **understatement** or a **relative statement**. The author implies that the profound, comprehensive, and vital truths he has conveyed about the supremacy of Christ and the New Covenant could have been expanded even further. Thus, "in few words" emphasizes the concentrated power, essential nature, and perhaps the urgency of the message, which, despite its brevity relative to its potential scope, demands the readers' full and patient attention. It highlights the efficiency and potency of Spirit-inspired communication.

**What does it mean to "suffer the word of exhortation" in this context?**

Answer: The King James Version's "suffer" (from the Greek _anéchomai_) can be misleading to modern ears, as it often implies pain or hardship. However, in this context, it means to **patiently bear with, tolerate, or graciously receive**. The author is not asking his readers to endure something painful, but to be receptive and open-minded to his message, even if it contains challenging truths, admonitions, or calls to perseverance. The "word of exhortation" (Greek: _paráklēsis_) itself is a message of comfort, encouragement, and strong appeal. So, to "suffer the word of exhortation" means to listen carefully, consider thoughtfully, and allow the message of the letter to take root and effect change in their lives, rather than dismissing it or becoming impatient with its demands. It's a plea for receptivity to the profound and vital truths contained within the epistle, which are ultimately for their spiritual good and perseverance in faith, as seen in the call to "run with endurance the race that is set before us" in [Hebrews 12:1](/hebrews/12-1 "Hebrews 12:1 - Running the Race").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 13:22, though a concluding personal plea, profoundly resonates with the Christ-centered message of the entire epistle. Jesus Christ Himself is the ultimate "word of exhortation" and the supreme embodiment of the truths conveyed in this letter. He is the one through whom God has spoken "in these last days" ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken by His Son")), and His life, death, and resurrection are the most powerful exhortation to faith and perseverance. The author’s humble appeal for his readers to "suffer" (receive patiently) his words mirrors Christ's own patient and humble submission to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility")). Furthermore, the idea of writing "in few words" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who, though the eternal Word ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God")), perfectly and succinctly revealed the Father's glory and purpose through His incarnate life. His finished work on the cross ([John 19:30](/john/19-30 "John 19:30 - It Is Finished")) is the concise yet complete message of salvation, requiring no further elaboration or addition. Thus, the author's plea for reception of his "word of exhortation" is ultimately a call to embrace Jesus Christ, the Living Word, in whom all the profound truths of God are perfectly and sufficiently revealed for our salvation and endurance.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Peter 5:12

By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.

2 Corinthians 6:1

¶ We then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.

Hebrews 3:1

¶ Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

Galatians 6:11

¶ Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand.

Hebrews 10:19

¶ Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

Hebrews 10:39

But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

Hebrews 12:1

¶ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,