1. Closing Remarks

2.  Hebrews chapter 13, verses 20-25 is oft identified as the “benediction.”  According to Miriam-Webster, a benediction involves the invocation of a blessing, sometimes referring to a short prayer with which public worship is concluded, or as here, the concluding paragraph of a much longer epistle.

3.  Jehovah is the God of peace (cf. Rom. 15:33; 16:20; Phil. 4:9; 1 Thess. 5:23).  Jesus Christ is the Great Shepherd (cf. John 10:11, 14-15; 1 Pet. 2:25; 5:4).  He was resurrected from the dead (cf. Acts 2:22-24; Rom. 1:1-4; Phil. 3:10-11).  Through the shedding of His blood, He instituted the Eternal Covenant (cf. Mat. 26:26-29; Heb. 9:15-20; 12:22-24).

4.  In closing, the author expresses a wish that God might bless his people, by equipping them in every good thing to do his will, and also by working in us that which is pleasing in His sight (Heb. 13:21).

5.  In closing, the author expresses a wish that his readers might respond appropriately, by bearing with this word of exhortation, by taking notice of Timothy’s release, and by greeting their leaders and all the saints (Heb. 13:22-24).

6.  The Hebrew author closes by saying “Grace be with you all” (Heb. 13:25).  Similar language was oft employed by Paul (Eph. 6:24; Col. 4:18; 1 Tim. 6:20-21; 2 Tim. 4:22; Titus 3:15).  However, to enjoy God’s unmerited favor, we must comply with His will and word.