THURSDAY June 18, 2026
Words of Exhortation
And I appeal to you, brethren, bear with the word of exhortation, for I have written to you in few words. Know that our brother Timothy has been set free, with whom I shall see you if he comes shortly.
Hebrews 13:22-23
Paul the Apostle made an appeal to the Hebrew believers. They were to bear with his constant words of exhortation that he had given to them. In his letter, they were exhorted time and time again.
Honestly, Paul had their best interests at heart, because his sound teaching, if obeyed, saved them from the deception that was being taught by Judaizers. They were attempting to seduce the Hebrew Christians back to the Jewish ceremonial laws and back into bondage. They needed to stand firmly in the grace of God––to remain in Christ.
It seems Timothy, Paul’s dearly beloved son in the faith, was imprisoned and had been set free. This is the reason why I strongly believe the letter of Hebrews was written by Paul. You see, they had a close father-son relationship in the faith (1 Timothy 1:2), and there was a renewed hope that, after his release, he would be able to come with Timothy to visit the Hebrew brethren. Certainly, we can see that Hebrews 13:1: Let brotherly love continue––was very evident in their lives.
How do you receive words of exhortation? Do not grow weary in listening to the words of a pastor’s exhortation, nor turn a deaf ear when he speaks. Why? Those words are for your edification. When a pastor or leader gives you words of exhortation, they are intended for your best interest. These important words will benefit you as you continue your spiritual walk with God.
Invitations to salvation must provide both exhortation and warning.
~John MacArthur~
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