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Hebrews 13:1–9 “Imperfect Freedom”

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5–7 minutes

Hebrews 13:1-9 NIV

Suggested Praise Songs:

Resources for Family Worship (with Children):

Explanation:

If we have become citizens of the “kingdom that cannot be shaken” (12:28) by the grace of Jesus Christ, we are to fear God and live in a way that pleases Him. The author gives several specific instructions about what it means to live a life pleasing to God.

First, the author says, “Continue to love one another as brothers and sisters” (v. 1). Literally translated, this can be rendered as “Remain in brotherly love.” The next one further specifies this command: “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers” (v. 2). Love must manifest itself in concrete actions toward others. The phrase “by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it” refers to the story of Abraham (Genesis 18:1–8; 19:1–3).

Second, the author urges readers to share in the suffering of “those in prison” and “those who are mistreated” (v. 3). These individuals are imprisoned and abused because of their faith. The author encourages the audience to regard themselves as if they were imprisoned along with them. This is a reminder that the suffering endured by those believers is not just their individual problem but a shared burden for the entire community.

Third, the author commands the readers to honor the marriage covenant and avoid sexual immorality (v. 4). “To honor” is often used to describe something as precious, like a costly gem. Valuing the marriage covenant is shown through sexual purity. The instruction to “keep the marriage bed pure” refers to avoiding adultery. Sexual relations within the covenant of marriage are a sacred gift, but “adultery,” which breaks this covenant, is a sin. “Sexual immorality” refers to perverse acts that seek pleasure apart from love, and such misuse of God’s holy gift is subject to judgment.

Fourth, the author addresses one’s attitude toward money (vv. 5–6). “Loving money” (v. 5) refers to pursuing wealth as the highest goal in life or finding one’s greatest joy in spending it. Such a mindset does not fit those who belong to the “kingdom that cannot be shaken.” Here, the author quotes Deuteronomy 31:6 and Psalm 118:6. A person who truly trusts in the Lord seeks security not in money but God. Therefore, such a person can be free from the power of money and live with contentment.

Fifth, the author exhorts, “Remember your leaders” (v. 7). The phrase “consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith” suggests that “your leaders” refers to those who taught God’s word and have since passed away. To “remember” them means to hold fast to the teachings they passed on. The truth they taught remains unchanging since Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (v. 8). This is why believers must not be carried away by “all kinds of strange teachings” (v. 9).

Meditation:

At times, we see people who, after facing the brink of death, return to live transformed, with entirely transformed lives. Some experience a near-death moment where they glimpse the world beyond and come back profoundly changed. Having seen an absolute and eternal realm, they begin to view this relative and temporary world in a different light.

Likewise, when our relationship with God is renewed, it is only natural that every aspect of our lives is transformed. Once we see God’s absolute and eternal realities, the things of this world become relativized. When we receive eternal promises from God, we are liberated from our attachment to temporary, worldly things. And when we become citizens of a kingdom that cannot be shaken, we are able to be content even with unstable and transient things.

This kind of talk can seem abstract. It sounds convincing when we hear it, but it can feel vague when it comes to actual practice. That is why the author of Hebrews gives concrete examples to encourage specific actions: welcoming strangers, sharing in the suffering of others, honoring the covenant of marriage by remaining sexually faithful to one’s spouse, using the gift of sexuality in a holy way, finding security in God rather than in wealth, living with material contentment, and remembering the teachings of faithfully devoted leaders.

These examples can be infinitely expanded. As those who belong to a kingdom that cannot be shaken, we are called to live distinctively in a world that is constantly shifting. Each time we make a choice or decision, we must remember who we are and act in a manner worthy of that identity. This is not something done out of coercion or mere obligation—it must flow from a deep assurance of the eternal kingdom to which we belong.

Prayer:

Lord, we confess that we still lack full assurance of the unshakable kingdom. That is why we continue to cling to material things and remain vulnerable to the lure of pleasure. Our hearts are still selfish, and our hands often turn inward. Though you have set us free, we remain bound; though you have made us righteous, we are still impure. And so, we ask all the more. Pour out more of the gifts of the Holy Spirit upon us. Let our freedom grow deeper, and our holiness stronger. We ask this in your holy name. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Children & Youth:

Key Point: God wants us to live differently from the world. He helps us show love, stay pure, be kind, and trust Him more than money.

  • For Preschool-Elementary
    • What does it mean to “love like a brother or sister” at church or school?
    • Have you ever helped someone sad or hurt? How did it feel?
    • Why do you think God wants us to share and not be greedy with money or toys?
  • For Youth
    • The author of Hebrews reminds us to care for others, even strangers and those in prison. Why is this important for Christians today?
    • What does it mean to be “free from the love of money” look like in your everyday life as a student?
    • Why is remembering the teachings and example of past Christian leaders helpful when your faith feels shaken?

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