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Hebrews 13:10–16 “Outside the Camp”

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4–7 minutes

Hebrews 13:10-16 NIV

Suggested Praise Songs:

Resources for Family Worship (with Children):

Explanation:

“The altar” (v. 10) refers to the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross. In the Old Testament, the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place and seek God’s forgiveness at the atonement cover (mercy seat) above the Ark of the Covenant. That was the altar for the Jewish people. In contrast, “we”—Christians—receive the grace of forgiveness through the cross of Jesus Christ. The term “Jewish temple” is a contextual translation of the Greek word skēnē, which literally means “tent” or “tabernacle.” The phrase “those who serve” is better translated as “those who offer sacrifices.” This term not only refers to priests and Levites but broadly includes all who seek God’s grace through temple sacrifices. “The offerings on this altar” point to God’s grace received through the sacrifice of the cross. Those who rely on temple sacrifices cannot receive the grace that comes through the cross.

The phrase “Jewish sacrificial rituals” (v. 11) refers specifically to the sacrificial practices of the Day of Atonement. According to the Law, when a typical sin offering was made, the meat of the sacrifice was shared and eaten by the priest and the worshipers as a fellowship offering. However, on the Day of Atonement, the high priest would take the blood of the sacrifice into the Most Holy Place to perform the ritual, and then “the rest of the animal—its hide, flesh, and intestines—was to be taken outside the camp and burned” (Leviticus 16:27). Jesus offered his eternal atoning sacrifice in the heavenly sanctuary, not made by human hands. His blood was shed there, and his body suffered death “outside the city gate” (v. 12).

Here, the author encourages the readers to share in Christ’s suffering. The call to “go outside the camp” means willingly accepting rejection, exclusion, and suffering. Experiencing hardship for the sake of faith is to participate in “the afflictions of Christ” (Colossians 1:24). Believers belong to “the city that is to come” (v. 14). So, they are not disturbed by being rejected by the cities of this world. Instead of offering “animal sacrifices,” believers now offer “sacrifices of praise” (v. 15). The phrase “the fruit of lips that openly profess his name” refers to acknowledging, thanking, and praising God for the grace of salvation He has given. This sacrifice of praise must be extended through “doing good and sharing with others” (v. 16). In other words, the sacrifice of the hands and feet must accompany the sacrifice of the lips. God delights in such sacrifices.

Meditation:

The Greek word parembolē is translated as “camp” or “military encampment.” When the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, they would set up camp whenever they paused. At the center of that camp stood the Tent of Meeting (the Tabernacle). After the Israelites settled in Canaan, they lived in towns or cities scattered throughout the land.

In those days, the greatest disaster one could experience was being cast out from the camp and expelled from the village or city. This was considered a form of social death. According to the Law, individuals infected with contagious diseases were to be isolated outside the camp, and those guilty of detestable sins were to be executed outside the camp as well. Given these practices, we can begin to understand just how terrifying it was to be sent “outside the camp.”

The author of Hebrews reminds us that Jesus suffered and died outside the gates of Jerusalem—the “camp”—and urges us to follow Him there. This is not a call for a physical relocation but to live a distinct and set-apart life. Living in the camp, among others, while following Jesus often places believers in a position similar to being cast outside the camp. We cannot truly live by faith unless we are willing to accept this reality. We belong to an unshakable kingdom; thus, in this world’s kingdoms, we are foreigners and strangers.

The discrimination, shame, and rejection that we experience as foreigners in this world are to be expected. However, our distinction as followers of Christ should be revealed through acts such as “sacrifices of praise,” “doing good,” and “sharing what we have.” These are the marks of a faithful and set-apart life.

Prayer:

Lord, we live far too comfortably “inside the camp” (in this world).
Those who do not believe hardly see us and think, “They are different from us.”
They do not find us unsettling, nor see us as a challenge or a threat.
Are we truly living as believers should?
Oh Lord, have mercy on us. Amen.

Discussion Questions for Children & Youth:

Key Point: Following Jesus means being willing to live differently, even when uncomfortable or unpopular. Jesus suffered outside the city, and we are called to follow Him by living lives of praise, kindness, and sharing—even when it sets us apart from others.

  • For Preschool-Elementary
    • Where did Jesus die—inside or outside the city? Why do you think that matters?
    • What ways can you show you love Jesus, even if others don’t?
    • How can you share what you have with others this week?
  • For Youth
    • Why do you think the Bible says Jesus suffered “outside the camp”? What does that teach us about following Him?
    • Have you ever felt left out because of your faith? How did you respond?
    • What does it look like to live a set-apart life today—in school, online, or with friends—and how can quiet or introverted people live that out meaningfully?

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