What does Hebrews 13:1 mean?

Let brotherly love continue. Hebrews 13:1

Explanation

Hebrews 13:1, taken from the King James Version of the Bible, states: “Let brotherly love continue.” This verse is both a directive and an encouragement for Christians to persistently practice love towards their fellow believers. The term “brotherly love” is translated from the Greek word “philadelphia,” which denotes a familial affection characteristic of the love between siblings. The admonition to let it continue suggests that such love should be steadfast and enduring, not momentary or superficial. The phrase carries a deeper meaning, which is an appeal for unity and mutual support within the Christian community, exemplifying the love that Jesus Christ embodies.

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish-Christians who were facing persecution and hardships due to their faith during the first century. The author of Hebrews, whose identity is uncertain but is often attributed to Paul, Apollos, or Barnabas, was likely concerned with the community’s stability and unity in the face of these challenges. The exhortation to continue in brotherly love served as a reminder that their strength came from their solidarity and the love that they had for one another, which was countercultural in the Roman Empire’s often harsh and competitive society.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, brotherly love is a fundamental Christian virtue that exemplifies the second greatest commandment: to love one’s neighbor as oneself. In the context of Hebrews, this love also serves as a witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. It echoes Jesus’ teaching that by the love believers have for one another, all people will know that they are His disciples (John 13:35). The call to love is seen as a reflection of God’s love and is made possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Different theological traditions emphasize this verse differently, but most agree on its centrality to Christian ethics and community life.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, this verse urges believers to act in loving ways towards others in their community by showing kindness, generosity, and forgiveness. It encourages individuals to maintain and foster relationships through patience, service, and support. In contemporary settings, this can manifest through volunteering, participating in community life, and being attentive to the needs of others. The notion of continuing in love also suggests accountability and an ongoing effort to cultivate a loving attitude even amid personal struggles or disagreements.

Cross-References

• Romans 12:10: “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;”
• 1 Peter 1:22: “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:”
• 1 Thessalonians 4:9: “But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye all are taught of God to love one another.”
• 1 John 4:7: “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.”
• John 13:34: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”

Language Study

The Greek term used in Hebrews 13:1 for “brotherly love” is “φιλαδελφία” (philadelphia), which derives from “φιλέω” (phileo), meaning “to love” and “ἀδελφός” (adelphos), meaning “brother.” Philadelphia implies a deep, affectionate, and sibling-like bond among members of the Christian community. The verb “continue” is translated from the Greek “μένω” (meno), which implies remaining, abiding, or persisting. Thus, the original language conveys a sense of durable, resilient love that remains through various circumstances.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures and religions, conceptions of love and community were often centered on kinship, ethnicity, or civic duty. The Greco-Roman emphasis on friendship and civic virtue included a love for one’s fellow citizens but not necessarily the kind of universal familial love promoted by Christianity. In contrast to the broader culture, the Christian concept of brotherly love transcended ethnic and social boundaries, encouraging a radical inclusivity within the context of their faith community.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the concept of altruism and prosocial behavior has been a subject of study in psychology and sociology. Research suggests that behaviors compatible with brotherly love, such as empathy, cooperation, and acts of kindness, can have positive effects on individual well-being and societal harmony. Studies in neuroscience have shown that compassionate behaviors can trigger neural responses associated with reward, underlining that caring for others has intrinsic benefits for both giver and receiver.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have reflected on Hebrews 13:1 with various insights. Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes the enduring nature of Christian charity and interprets brotherly love as an internal disposition that governs all of one’s actions. John Calvin highlights the purity of this love, which seeks the well-being of others. Modern commentaries, such as the New International Commentary on the New Testament, discuss the social and ecclesial dimensions of “philadelphia,” noting its foundational role in sustenance and growth of the Christian community. Most commentators agree that this verse serves as a foundational call to live out the Christian faith through sustained, practical love for others.