Useful Bible Studies > Hebrews Commentary > chapter 13
The author of Hebrews liked to contrast similar words as he wrote in the Greek language. Teachers often do that because it can help people to remember the lesson.
In Hebrews 13:1-2, the author contrasted words that mean ‘love for a brother’ and ‘love for strangers’. Now in Hebrews 13:5, he uses another similar word that contrasts with them both. It means ‘without love for money’.
In 1 Timothy 6:10, Paul warned Timothy about the love of money. He explained that it causes all kinds of evil behaviour. Paul’s advice in 1 Timothy 6:3-10, and his statement in Philippians 4:10-13, explain Hebrews 13:5 well. Christians should be content, whether they are rich or poor. They should love God, and not money. As Jesus said, it is impossible for both God and money to rule a person’s life at the same time (Matthew 6:24).
Christians do not need to worry about money because they trust God. He will provide for them (Matthew 6:25-34).
As evidence of that fact, the author refers to Moses’ words in Deuteronomy 31:6. Moses originally spoke those words to Israel’s people before they entered Canaan. They should not be afraid of their enemies, because God was with them. He would not leave them.
Moses was God’s loyal servant (Hebrews 3:5), and a servant has authority to speak on behalf of his master. So really, Moses was declaring God’s words to his people. God’s people have no reason to be afraid because God is with them. And when they have troubles, he will not leave them.
Next part: Why Christians can be confident (Hebrews 13:6)
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© 2014, Keith Simons.