Bible Commentary on Hebrews 13:21

Verse: "make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen."

Introduction

The closing chapter of the Epistle to the Hebrews affords profound insights into the nature of divine perfection, the importance of good works, and the implications of Christ's agency in our lives. The Apostle, through this verse, expresses a benediction that reflects deep theological significance.

The Meaning of Perfection

Matthew Henry emphasizes that the concept of being made "perfect" transcends mere moral completeness. It encapsulates the notion of restoration and equipping believers to accomplish God's will. As he articulates, perfection in this context is indicative of being made complete for every good work.

Albert Barnes further reinforces this understanding by parsing out the original Greek meaning of "perfect." He notes that it implies not only maturity in faith but also alignment with the divine purpose, suggesting that God’s preparation requires an active participation from the believer.

Workmanship and Divine Will

This verse highlights that God actively works within us to carry out His will. Adam Clarke points out that the phrase "working in you" emphasizes the ongoing divine influence that enables Christians to perform good works. This influence is not mere passive support but an active endeavor of the Holy Spirit.

• Good Works: These are not simply human endeavors but are framed within the character and mission of Jesus Christ, who epitomizes the ultimate good work.
• God’s Will: Understanding that every outstanding work we seek to achieve in faith must align with God’s overarching will provides grounding for spiritual service.

Wellpleasing in His Sight

The assurance that our works are "wellpleasing" to God is a pressing theme in Hebrews 13:21. Matthew Henry suggests that this reflects God’s gracious disposition toward His children, implying that our efforts, though imperfect, are transformed through Christ’s intercession. Our good works, when offered in His name, are accepted as blessed and worthy.

This resonates with the notion articulated by Albert Barnes, who mentions that it is through Jesus Christ that we are made acceptable. Our shortcomings are overcome by Christ’s righteousness, reinforcing a foundational tenet of Christian soteriology.

Through Jesus Christ

The phrase "through Jesus Christ" indicates the indispensable role of Christ in our relationship with God. Adam Clarke elucidates that our good works and our acceptable worship depend on Christ's mediatorial work. All glory for our spiritual achievements is directed toward Him, establishing a Christocentric theology.

• Mediation: Christ mediates our relationship to the Father, enabling us to perform deeds that have eternal significance.
• Glory: The doxology at the end illustrates that all glory belongs to Christ, highlighting the end goal of our existence and endeavors.

Doctrinal Implications

This verse encapsulates several key doctrines: the transformation of the believer, the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, and the necessity of Christ’s intercession. Each of these plays a crucial role in the life of the Church and the individual believer.

The Transformation of the Believer

Matthew Henry applies this to the transformative nature of faith, which equips believers for noble service. The implication here is that God does not leave His children to toil alone; rather, He invests in their spiritual growth.

Sanctification

Albert Barnes further develops the idea of sanctification as God’s continual work in the believer, which allows for a life that yields spiritual fruitfulness.

Christ’s Intercession

The acknowledgment of Christ as the means through which good works are conferred brings depth to the understanding of redemption. Adam Clarke captures this thought by noting our reliance on Jesus’ righteousness not only for salvation but for the effectiveness of our works.

Conclusion

Hebrews 13:21 stands as a profound reminder of God’s active role in the life of believers, perfectly equipping them for works that align with His will. The integration of insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke reveals a multifaceted understanding of spiritual maturity, divine influence, and the tremendous grace afforded through Christ.

Above all, this verse calls believers not to self-reliance but to a dependence on God’s grace, emphasizing that all the glory for their good works ultimately belongs to Jesus Christ. In fulfilling His command and embracing His calling, believers partake in the divine nature and extend His Kingdom here on earth.