Hebrews 13:19 - Printer Friendly

ESV: I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.

NIV: I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored to you soon.

NASB: And I urge you all the more to do this, so that I may be restored to you more quickly.

CSB: And I urge you all the more to pray that I may be restored to you very soon.

NLT: And especially pray that I will be able to come back to you soon.

KJV: But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner.

NKJV: But I especially urge you to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner.

The prior verse demonstrates exactly the kind of humility required of those who claim to teach the Word of God (James 3:1). There, the plea was that the readers would pray to keep the writer's conscience clear and his actions honorable (Hebrews 13:18). Faced with a godly, modest leader, the earlier instruction to cooperate with spiritual leaders becomes much easier, and much more natural (Hebrews 13:7; 13:17).

In this verse, the writer includes an appeal that his readers pray for restoration. In this case, the writer means having an ability to visit these persecuted believers once again. Wording such as this lends weight to the belief that Paul wrote this letter, since he often expressed a desire to see those to whom he wrote letters. In his case, prison and persecution often interfered with his ability to travel freely. This request is given some emphasis, as something "urged," and "the more earnestly." There is no question that the writer of this passage sincerely wishes to see his readers again.

The following verse features a benediction, which is the equivalent of a prayer from the writer, on behalf of his readers.

Hebrews 13:18–25 closes out the letter written to persecuted Jewish Christians. The writer asks for prayer, humbly mentioning his desire to live an honorable life with a clear conscience. This is followed by a benediction which touches on several major themes from the rest of the book of Hebrews. The writer also notes that this writing has only just begun to explore these deep ideas. Hebrews ends with a signature seen at the end of the writings of the apostle Paul: a reference to grace.

Chapters 1—9 explained how the new covenant in Jesus Christ is superior to the old covenant of animal sacrifices. This comparison drew on extensive use of Old Testament Scripture. Chapters 10––12 applied that evidence to encourage Christians to ''hold fast'' despite persecution. The summary of these applications was that believers ought to trust in their faith, and choose to obey God, during times of struggle. Chapter 13 adds a few specific reminders about Christian conduct. This passage also reiterates the idea that Christ is meant to be our ultimate example. The letter concludes with a request for prayer and words of blessing.

The last chapter of the book of Hebrews follows a pattern common in New Testament books, especially those written by Paul. The writer gave extensive evidence in chapters 1––9 to support a central idea. This concept was that the new covenant, in Jesus Christ, is superior to the old covenant, composed of the Levitical laws. Chapters 10¬-––12 applied this knowledge to the need for persecuted Christians to maintain their faith. Here, in chapter 13, the writer offers a few specific encouragements for the reader, before signing off with a request for prayer and a benediction.

The book of Hebrews is meant to challenge, encourage, and empower Christian believers. According to this letter, Jesus Christ is superior to all other prophets and all other claims to truth. Since God has given us Christ, we ought to listen to what He says and not move backwards. The consequences of ignoring God are dire. Hebrews is important for drawing on many portions of the Old Testament in making a case that Christ is the ultimate and perfect expression of God's plan for mankind. This book presents some tough ideas about the Christian faith, a fact the author makes specific note of.