We left off yesterday with the simple introduction to Hebrews 13. “Let brotherly love continue.” Some of us like to wrestle with the complex stuff in part because we’ve learned that as long as we’re debating scripture, we’re not actually putting it into practice. But Hebrews ends with the same sort of practical instruction that occurs in much of the New Testament. Here’s how it starts:

• Let brotherly love continue.
• Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
• Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.
• Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.
• Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
• Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. (Hebrews 13.1 – 5, 7, ESV, bulleted for clarity)

Just basic, practical stuff: love, be hospitable, visit the prisoners (see Matthew 25.35, 36), be faithful in marriage, be content – not covetous, and remember your leaders.

By the way, “remember your leaders” for what? Their way of life and their faith. If I’m a leader, then how I live is more important than what I say. More about that tomorrow, perhaps with a tie-in to the Skip Gray memorial service.

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4.1 – 3, ESV)