Hebrews 13:22

Hebrews 13:22 serves as a concluding plea from the author, urging the recipients to graciously receive the message of his letter. It highlights the nature of the epistle itself as a word of encouragement and counsel, despite its profound theological depth.

Context

This verse comes at the very end of the Book of Hebrews, following a series of practical instructions and final greetings. The entire letter is a sustained argument for the supremacy of Jesus Christ over the Old Covenant, written to a community of Jewish Christians who were likely facing persecution and temptation to abandon their faith and revert to former practices. The author, whose identity remains unknown, has delivered a complex and extensive theological treatise, often described as a "sermon" or "word of exhortation" (as mentioned here). His concluding remarks in Hebrews 13 transition from doctrinal teaching to practical admonitions and personal requests, culminating in this humble appeal.

Key Themes

• The Nature of the Epistle: The author explicitly calls his work a "word of exhortation." This term, from the Greek paraklesis, encompasses encouragement, comfort, admonition, and strong appeal. It underscores the letter's primary purpose: to strengthen the faith of weary believers and urge them to persevere in Christ.
• Humble Appeal: The phrase "I beseech you, brethren, suffer" reveals the author's pastoral heart and humility. He isn't demanding obedience but gently pleading for their receptive attention to the vital truths he has conveyed. To "suffer" here means to bear with, tolerate, or patiently receive.
• Conciseness of the Message: When the author states, "I have written a letter unto you in few words," it's a relative statement. While Hebrews is a substantial book, its theological depth and comprehensive treatment of Christ's superiority could have been expanded much further. The author implies he has been concise, packing immense truth into a manageable form for his audience, perhaps indicating a desire not to overburden them or suggesting the urgency of the message allowed for brevity.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "word of exhortation" translates the Greek logos parakleseos (λόγος παρακλήσεως). The root word paraklesis is rich in meaning, signifying not just encouragement but also comfort, solace, and a strong appeal or earnest entreaty. It is the same root from which the term Paraclete (referring to the Holy Spirit as the Comforter or Helper) is derived. This highlights that the letter's content was intended to provide spiritual strength and guidance, urging the readers towards steadfastness in their faith, much like the Spirit's role in the believer's life. The description "in few words" comes from the Greek dia bracheon (διὰ βραχέων), emphasizing the succinctness with which profound truths were presented.

Practical Application

Hebrews 13:22 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

• Receiving God's Word: We are called to "suffer," or patiently and openly receive, the word of God, even when it involves challenging truths or exhortations to change. The Bible is not just for information but for transformation, often requiring us to bear with difficult concepts or calls to obedience.
• Value of Encouragement: This verse reminds us of the critical role of biblical teaching and pastoral encouragement. Like the original recipients, we need constant reminders and exhortations to persevere in our faith, especially amidst life's trials and temptations.
• Pastoral Humility: The author's humble request sets an example for those who teach or lead. Even when delivering weighty truths, a spirit of humility and loving appeal can foster receptivity in the audience.
• The Power of Brevity: While the letter is long, the author's claim of "few words" suggests the potency of concise, Spirit-inspired communication. It encourages us to appreciate the distilled wisdom found in Scripture, where every word carries significance.