At the end of chapter 12 we’ve been reminded that we have a kingdom that cannot be shaken and a God who deserves worship. Chapter 13 seems to at least relate to that discussion in that it lays out what that worship looks like, which is consistent with what it looks like to live in the Kingdom. These things are sacrifices pleasing to God.
What are they? Love the brothers. Heck, love the strangers, you never know who you’re dealing with, it could be a messenger of God (either spirit or otherwise). Remember the folks in prison and those who are mistreated as though you are with them. (Note, this is likely in reference to Christians who have been mistreated because they are Christians although I don’t see any reason to not apply it to all situations.) Let marriage be held in honor among all. (This is likely also within a context of “among Christians” as the “all”. So at the very least, let’s fight for the marriages within the faith.) Don’t love money and be content because God provides (underlying thread here is not to worry).
The Hebrews are also supposed to remember those who taught them about Jesus and imitate their faith. Don’t follow others who teach weird things about Jesus that make it sound like he changes the way he does things, he doesn’t. And while they’re at it, don’t get involved in any weird food stuff (sounds like old Hebrew notions may be sticking around for this group).
We offer a continue “sacrifice of praise” by acknowledging with our lips what Jesus has done. And we follow in his footsteps, doing good and sharing what we have, as those, as well, are sacrifices pleasing to God. (Don’t miss that.) Also, submit to your leaders, those who are caring for your souls since they will have to give an account to God on your behalf (gulp.) They should do so with joy and not with groaning (that I can do) for that is no advantage to you (I assume for them to be curmudgeonly about the whole thing.)
v.20 starts to send them out by a reminder of a bunch of cool stuff about God. He is the God of peace, he brought Jesus back from the dead, he is the Great Shepherd (Psalm 23 style), and has enacted a promise to His people that shall never end. And the prayer is that God will equip them to do the work that he has set out for them which is pleasing to Him.
The final greeting is interesting in a couple of ways. They must use “briefly” differently in Koine Greek because I would say our man was a bit long-winded. However, he asks they heed the words in the letter even though it wasn’t quite 15 scrolls long. Also, Timothy has sprung from the joint and Hebrews writer and him may hook up and visit if circumstances allow. Regardless, tell everyone “hi” and the bros from Italy say “hi” as well.
Grace be with them.