Hebrews 13:20 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant,

NIV: Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep,

NASB: Now may the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, that is, Jesus our Lord,

CSB: Now may the God of peace, who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus—the great Shepherd of the sheep —through the blood of the everlasting covenant,

NLT: Now may the God of peace — who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood —

KJV: Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,

NKJV: Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,

This verse begins the formal close to this letter to persecuted Jewish Christians. The benediction offered in verses 20 and 21 echoes several of the highlights from the book of Hebrews.

God is frequently associated with peace (1 Thessalonians 5:23; Philippians 4:7; Romans 15:33). In the context of the book of Hebrews, this "peace" is closely tied to the reconciliation we're offered through Jesus Christ. Rather than God choosing a long-term system of fear, wrath, and judgment (Hebrews 12:18–21), He lovingly provided us with grace (Hebrews 12:22–29).

Likewise, references to Christ as a shepherd are common in the Bible. Jesus instigated this comparison Himself, often using it as a way to explain His role as Messiah (John 10:1–6; 10:7–13; 10:14–16). The shepherd imagery implies guidance, protection, and care. Prior text in the book of Hebrews referred to Christ as a leader, author, or captain—an example to be followed (Hebrews 2:10; 12:2).

The writer also refers to the resurrection of Christ. This is the capstone event proving the ministry of Jesus as something truly from God (Acts 5:30; 1 Corinthians 6:14; Colossians 2:12). Other New Testament passages note that Jesus' return from the dead is the lynch-pin of Christian faith (1 Corinthians 15:13–20). Interestingly, this is the first time the book of Hebrews specifically mentions Jesus' resurrection. The intent of this letter was to show that Jesus' ministry on our behalf was always God's plan. Discussion of Christ, here, has focused mostly on the parallels between Jesus' sacrifice and those prescribed in the old covenant.

The writer also reiterates the idea of the new covenant being "eternal." This is true both looking forwards and backwards. Looking into the past, the writer of Hebrews showed how God had always intended to establish a "new covenant" in order to save mankind (Hebrews 8:4–8). Looking to the future, the results of the new covenant were described as something which "cannot be shaken," in contrast to the temporary things of earth (Hebrews 12:25–29).

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.