Hebrews 13:6 - Printer Friendly

ESV: So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?"

NIV: So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?"

NASB: so that we confidently say, 'THE Lord IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?'

CSB: Therefore, we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

NLT: So we can say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?'

KJV: So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

NKJV: So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”

In this passage, the writer of Hebrews has offered direct, practical instructions for Christian living. Among these are concepts such as love, hospitality, purity, and contentment (Hebrews 13:1–5). The prior verse tied a Christian's ability to be content with his trust in God to provide for his needs. That reference was, most likely, a reference to God's promise to Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:6 and Joshua 1:5.

Here, the writer further supports the claim that a believer ought to trust in God, rather than being unhappy with his current circumstances. The point made here is one that's very reasonable, but hard to remember when we're in a crisis. If the Creator of the universe, the one true God, says He will care for us (1 Peter 5:7) and work out all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28), then what possible reason would we have to fear circumstances on earth? The words quoted here by the writer are from the Old Testament, possibly Psalm 118:6 or Psalm 56:4.

Hebrews 13:1–6 contains practical, real-world instructions for Christian believers. These mirror some of the more common themes in the New Testament. Brotherly love, hospitality, care for the abused, sexual morality, and contentment are all commended. The writer ties the ability to be content, and faithful, to our trust in Christ to be there with us, and for us, in all of our circumstances. This grounding is strengthened in the following passage.

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.

Accessed 9/7/2024 9:47:08 PM