Hebrews 13:22 · Bible study
Hebrews 13:22 Commentary: Bearing the Word of Exhortation
Greek · 11 what the commentators say
Meaning in one sentence
Why does the author of Hebrews call his letter a 'word of exhortation' and ask readers to bear with it? Study the meaning, context, and pastoral significance.
Research Summary
- Meaning: The author humbly asks readers to patiently accept his entire letter as a necessary exhortation, written concisely.
- Key words: παρακαλῶ (I exhort/entreat), ἀνέχεσθε (bear with, endure), λόγος παρακλήσεως (word of exhortation), διὰ βραχέων (in few words).
- Main debate: Whether 'word of exhortation' refers to the whole epistle or only the closing chapters; the majority view is the entire letter.
- Theological theme: The necessity of perseverance and the role of Scripture as both comfort and challenge (παράκλησις).
- Best use: As a model for pastoral humility and for helping congregations receive difficult biblical teachings.
Translation Comparison
BSB Berean Standard Bible 2020
I urge you, brothers, to bear with my word of exhortation, for I have only written to you briefly.
WEB World English Bible 2000
But I exhort you, brothers, endure the word of exhortation, for I have written to you in few words.
KJV King James Version 1769
And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.
ASV American Standard Version 1901
But I exhort you, brethren, bear with the word of exhortation: for I have written unto you in few words.
YLT Young's Literal Translation 1898
And I entreat you, brethren, suffer the word of the exhortation, for also through few words I have written to you.
Darby Darby Bible 1890
But I beseech you, brethren, bear the word of exhortation, for it is but in few words that I have written to you.
Douay-Rheims Douay-Rheims Bible 1899
And I beseech you, brethren, that you suffer this word of consolation. For I have written to you in a few words.
Translations in other languages (10 available)
Empero os ruego, hermanos, que soportéis la palabra de exhortación; porque os he escrito en breve.
Eu vos rogo, porém, irmãos, que suportai esta palavra de exortação; pois eu vos escrevi de maneira breve.
Je vous prie, frères, de supporter ces paroles d’ exhortation, car je vous ai écrit brièvement.
Ich ermahne euch aber, liebe Brüder, haltet das Wort der Ermahnung zugute; denn ich habe euch kurz geschrieben.
Doch ik bid u, broeders, verdraagt het woord dezer vermaning; want ik heb u in het kort geschreven.
Or, fratelli, comportate, vi prego, la mia parola d’esortazione; perché v’ho scritto brevemente.
A proszę was, bracia! znoście cierpliwie słowo napominania tego; bomci do was krótko pisał.
Прошу вас, братия, примите сие слово увещания; я же не много и написал вам.
弟兄們， 我略略 寫信 給你們，望 你們 聽 我勸勉的 話。
But, brothers, take kindly the words which I have said for your profit; for I have not sent you a long letter.
Verse in Context
Original Language (Koine Greek)
New Testament · Koine Greek · Hebrews 13:22
Source: STEPBible TAGNT/TEHB (CC-BY 4.0). Click or tap a morphology code to see the full parsing.
Scholars' Consensus
The commentators agree that 'the word of exhortation' (τὸν λόγον τῆς παρακλήσεως) refers to the entire Epistle to the Hebrews, not merely its final chapter. Adam Clarke and Albert Barnes both interpret the phrase as an epithet for the whole letter, noting that the author has compressed profound theological arguments, Christ's supremacy, the insufficiency of the Levitical system, the new covenant, into a relatively brief compass. The request to 'bear with' (ἀνέχεσθε, a present middle imperative) is a courteous plea for patience. As Vincent's Word Studies explains, the verb means 'to hold oneself firm' and implies that the readers might be tempted to grow impatient. Matthew Henry and John Gill observe that the author, speaking as a brother rather than an apostle with authority, entreats them gently. The reason given, 'for I have written to you in few words', suggests both an apology for any severity and an acknowledgment that the subject matter could have been expanded. The consensus is that this verse serves as a humble, pastoral conclusion to a demanding letter.
How settled is the interpretation?
Interpretive difficulty: Medium
Main views:
- Whole-epistle view: Most commentators (Clarke, Barnes, Vincent) interpret 'the word of exhortation' as describing the entire letter, citing the phrase 'I have written to you in few words' as applying to the whole.
- Sectional view: Some (Gill, cautiously) allow that it might refer primarily to the exhortations in Hebrews 13 or even a particular passage like Hebrews 12:5, given the immediate context of concluding appeals.
What is clear: The author asks his readers to receive his written exhortation patiently, acknowledging its brevity compared to the subject's depth.
What Scholars Agree and Debate
| Topic | Agreed | Debated |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of 'word of exhortation' | Most commentators agree that it refers to the entire Epistle to the Hebrews. | Some (e.g., Gill) allow that it might refer specifically to the exhortations in chapter 13, or even a particular section like Hebrews 12:5, though the majority sees it as the whole letter. |
| Authorship of Hebrews | The verse shows a personal touch (mention of Timothy, appeal for prayer), suggesting an apostolic author closely connected to Paul's circle. | Traditions differ on whether Paul himself wrote this letter; many ancient sources attribute it to Paul, but others suggest Barnabas, Luke, or Apollos. The verse does not settle authorship. |
| Tone of the request | The author writes with gentle entreaty rather than apostolic command, indicating pastoral sensitivity. | Some see this as an apology for the letter's severity (Cambridge, Gill); others see it simply as a courteous closing without any note of defensiveness (Calvin). |
| Meaning of 'few words' | The author acknowledges that the letter is brief relative to the weight of the subject matter. | Barnes emphasizes the compressed style; Wesley notes it is longer than Paul's usual letters but still considered 'few words' given the topic. The phrase may imply humility or a desire not to weary the readers. |
Historical & Cultural Context
The phrase 'word of exhortation' (λόγος παρακλήσεως) carries a distinct echo of the synagogue service. In Acts 13:15, Paul and Barnabas are invited to 'speak a word of exhortation' after the reading of the Law and the Prophets. This suggests that Hebrews was composed to be read aloud in a Christian gathering, functioning as a written sermon. The audience, Jewish Christians, would have recognized the homiletic style and the authority of the speaker.
The author's tone here is notably restrained. He calls his readers 'brothers' and uses παρακαλῶ (I exhort or entreat) rather than a firmer command. Several commentators note that the letter addresses a community under pressure, tempted to drift back to Jewish practices or to abandon their confidence entirely (see Hebrews 2:1; 3:1). The warning passages throughout the epistle (e.g., chapters 6, 10) are severe. By closing with this appeal, the author softens the impact, asking them not to reject his counsel.
The mention that he has written 'in few words' (διὰ βραχέων) is likely a rhetorical gesture. The epistle is hardly short, it runs longer than most of Paul's letters, but compared to the depth of its subjects (Melchizedek, the new covenant, the heavenly sanctuary), it is indeed compressed. Barns remarks that the author could have expanded each topic into volumes. The historical situation of the letter (likely before the destruction of the temple in AD 70) gave urgency; he needed to say much in little space. The reference to Timothy's release (v. 23) firmly anchors the letter in a specific moment, showing the author's personal investment in the community.
Textual Notes
The supplied commentary sources do not discuss significant textual variants for Hebrews 13:22. The Greek text underlying the standard translations is well-established. The word 'But' (δὲ) in some translations (e.g., WEB, ASV) vs 'And' (KJV, YLT) reflects a minor difference in conjunction choice; it does not affect the sense of the verse.
Reception History
The phrase 'word of exhortation' was recognized early as connecting Hebrews to the synagogue homily tradition (Acts 13:15). During the Reformation, John Calvin drew on this verse to argue that Scripture does not eliminate the need for ongoing oral exhortation in the church; the apostle wrote briefly so as not to detract from the regular ministry of pastors. Puritan commentators such as Matthew Henry emphasized the apostle's gentle entreaty as a pattern for pastoral humility. In modern study, the verse is often cited to support the view that Hebrews is a written sermon sent to a specific congregation. Christians across traditions have treasured this verse as a window into the author's heart, a shepherd appealing to his flock to receive the truth with patience.
Preaching This Verse
Three-point outline
- The Letter as Exhortation. Hebrews is not pure doctrine; it is an urgent call to persevere. The author frames his entire argument as 'the word of exhortation', a term borrowed from synagogue practice (Acts 13:15). It is designed to move hearers to action.
- The Request for Patience. The verb ἀνέχεσθε means 'bear with' or 'endure'. The author expects that his message may be hard to accept. He does not command; he entreats as a brother. This models how challenging truth should be delivered, with humility and love.
- The Brevity that Packs a Punch. The author claims to have written briefly, a nod to both the weight of the subject and his respect for the reader's attention. Compressed truth is often the most memorable. God can say much in few words.
Five-point outline
- The Author's Self-Identification. He calls them brothers, not subordinates. He uses entreaty, not authority. This is pastoral identity.
- The Nature of the Message. A 'word of exhortation' includes both comfort and challenge. The same word (παράκλησις) can mean consolation or admonition. The sermon is designed to strengthen faith.
- The Tone of the Appeal. 'Bear with' implies the readers may find it difficult. The author acknowledges their struggle and asks for a hearing.
- The Reason Given. He has written in few words. This is not an excuse but an explanation: the subject matter deserves more, but he has condensed it out of care.
- The Example for Us. We are called to receive God's word even when it pricks. And when we deliver hard truths, we do so gently, as brothers and sisters.
Illustration hooks
- A doctor giving a short but serious diagnosis. The news is hard, but the brevity does not diminish its importance. You must 'bear with' it because it is true.
- A coach's halftime talk: concise, direct, meant to correct and motivate. The team may not like hearing it, but it is for their good.
- A friend who writes a brief letter of loving correction. You know they care, even if the words sting at first.
Questions your congregation is asking
- Why does this epistle seem so repetitive about warnings against drifting away?
- Is it okay to find certain Bible passages hard to accept or endure?
- How do I know if a challenging sermon is from God or just human opinion?
Leading a Discussion
Hebrews 13:22 is the author's personal signature on a demanding letter. He calls his work a 'word of exhortation' and asks his readers to bear with it. This invites us to consider how we receive challenging teaching, and how we offer it to others.
Discussion questions
- What does the phrase 'word of exhortation' tell us about the purpose of this letter? How does it fit with the warnings in Hebrews 2:1 and 3:1?
- Why do you think the author asks to be 'borne with' rather than giving a direct command? What does this reveal about his relationship with the readers?
- The author says he has written 'in few words.' Do you find that the length of a sermon affects how you receive it? Why?
- Read Hebrews 2:1: 'Therefore we ought to pay greater attention to the things that were heard, lest perhaps we drift away.' How does this connect to the appeal in 13:22?
- In what ways might God be asking you right now to 'bear with' a challenging truth from Scripture?
- How does the author's humility shape the way we should speak truth to one another, especially when it is hard to hear?
- What would change in your small group if everyone approached correction as a 'word of exhortation' meant to help, not harm?
Word Study
The key original-language words in this verse. Select any word for its full lexicon entry — meaning, every occurrence in Scripture, and related words.
Cross-References
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK, public domain)
| II Corinthians 5:20 | We are therefore ambassadors on behalf of Christ, as though God were entreating by us: we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. |
| II Corinthians 6:1 | Working together, we entreat also that you do not receive the grace of God in vain. |
| II Corinthians 10:1 | Now I Paul, myself, entreat you by the humility and gentleness of Christ, I who in your presence am lowly among you, but being absent am bold toward you. |
| Galatians 6:11 | See with what large letters I write to you with my own hand. |
| Philemon 1:8 | Therefore though I have all boldness in Christ to command you that which is appropriate, |
| Philemon 1:9 | yet for love’s sake I rather appeal to you, being such a one as Paul, the aged, but also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. |
| Hebrews 2:1 | Therefore we ought to pay greater attention to the things that were heard, lest perhaps we drift away. |
| Hebrews 3:1 | Therefore, holy brothers, partakers of a heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession: Jesus, |
Interlinear and lexical data from STEPBible (CC BY 4.0). Cross-reference data from OpenBible.info (CC BY 4.0). Commentaries are public domain.
For personal reflection
Read the devotional page — prayer, application, and "for families"
What the Commentators Say
10 public-domain commentaries, condensed into plain language.
Adam Clarke's Commentary Methodist/Wesleyan 1826
Clarke treats the phrase "word of exhortation" as a fitting description for the entire letter. He notes that because the epistle dismantles the Levitical system and declares it abolished, the apostle anticipated resistance and so pleads with readers to bear with this teaching, which he condensed into a brief written form.
Barnes' Notes on the Bible Protestant 1832
Barnes clarifies that the phrase "few words" does not mean this epistle is short compared to Paul's others. He argues it means the author condensed profound and difficult topics into as concise a form as possible, avoiding the much longer discussion the subjects would have allowed.
Calvin's Commentaries Reformed 1564
Calvin argues that Peter mentions writing briefly precisely to show that Scripture never replaces the living voice of pastors. The Spirit inspired the written word, but that does not cancel the need for constant oral exhortation in the church. People crave novelty and resist reproof, so they need regular reminders from their teachers.
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges Anglican 1880
The commentator notes that the writer apologises courteously for his severe tone, asking readers to bear with his exhortation. He points out that the word for "written" here means simply sending a letter, not commanding. The phrase "in few words" acknowledges the letter's brevity given its deep and lasting subject matter.
Geneva Bible Notes Reformed 1599
I beseeche you also, brethren, suffer the wordes of exhortation: for I haue written vnto you in fewe wordes.
Gill's Exposition of the Bible Baptist 1748
Gill notes Paul's tender approach: he entreats rather than commands, being careful with Jewish believers who were sensitive about his ministry. The "word of exhortation" may also mean consolation, suggesting these readers were suffering. Paul adds that his letter is brief, so they should bear with its admonitions without impatience.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary Protestant 1871
JFB observes that Paul writes this letter with deliberate restraint, addressing the Hebrews with gentle appeal rather than authority because his apostolic commission focused on Gentiles, not Jews. Though the subject could fill many pages, Paul keeps the epistle brief, making it read more like a compact treatise.
Matthew Henry's Commentary Reformed/Presbyterian 1710
Henry urges believers to pray for their ministers as a vital duty, because ministers need the people's prayers to be taught, strengthened, and made successful. He adds that the more earnestly people pray for them, the more benefit they themselves will receive from their ministry.
Vincent's Word Studies Evangelical 1887
Vincent notes that the writer asks readers to "bear with" his words, not merely tolerate them. He sees the entire letter as hortatory rather than teaching or comfort, and the closing phrase suggests an apology for its brevity.
Wesley's Explanatory Notes Methodist/Wesleyan 1754
Wesley observes that the letter is longer than his usual writings, yet still concise given the richness of the subject. He frames his request to "suffer the word of exhortation" as a gentle appeal for the reader's patience with the length, which the topic's depth requires.