READ: Heb. 13:16-25: Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood …, make you complete in every good work … through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.…
First, the writer provides instructions on mutual service (v.16), obedience to leaders (v.17), and the need for intercession on his behalf (v.18,19). Then he concludes his letter. Throughout, he has described and depicted Jesus Christ as the great High Priest and Captain at the right hand of the Father, who saves His church from destruction and cares for, protects, and preserves it.
His omnipotence, faithfulness, love, help, and care have been extensively described. The congregation is encouraged to surrender to this Savior in faith rather than falling back into false and willful religion. This requires perseverance in faith and a struggle against false teachings and unholy living. How can they put this into practice and persevere? Surely, only with God’s help?
Therefore, the writer prays to God the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ. He calls on the God of peace to equip His church with everything necessary to live for Him. God is the God of peace for us because through Christ’s sacrifice, He has granted us access to His sanctuary (Rom. 5:1-5). For this purpose, God raised His Son from the dead, thereby giving divine approval to His reconciling work.
The blood His Son shed is now the basis for the eternal covenant, in which anyone who believes in Him can share (9:26; 10:10). He, our Lord Jesus Christ, is now the great Shepherd of us He gave His life for us as His sheep and leads us to our ultimate goal.
May God now, through this Shepherd, equip us in such a way that we do every good work that is in accordance with His will in that eternal covenant. May He work in us in such a way that we do what pleases Him. May He grant that in all this, we see His work in His Son, for which we will eternally give Him the honor He deserves. Amen.
Does our prayer align with this blessing?
Singing: Ps. 23:2