What does Hebrews 13:13 mean?

Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. Hebrews 13:13

Explanation

Hebrews 13:13 speaks to the Christian experience of identifying with Jesus Christ, particularly in the context of suffering and rejection. Literally, the verse is calling followers to go to Jesus, symbolically “outside the camp,” which refers to leaving the safety and security of the established order, both religious and social, to bear the same contempt or dishonor that Jesus endured.

The deeper meaning of this passage is urging believers to embrace and not shy away from the alienation or persecution that may come as a result of their faith. It emphasizes solidarity with Christ’s sufferings and, by extension, a willing departure from traditional Jewish practices and temple rituals (the “camp”) that were rendered obsolete by Jesus’ sacrifice.

Historical Context

In the time this letter was written, early Christians, many of whom were Jewish converts, faced significant persecution and were often marginalized or cast out of the Jewish synagogical community. This “camp” that the author refers to could be the literal encampment of Israel in the wilderness or the figurative social and religious order of Judaism. Therefore, the call to go forth “unto him” would symbolize a decisive break with the Jewish temple system and an embrace of the new covenant established through Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, there are different interpretations of what “outside the camp” means. One viewpoint holds that it refers to the willingness of Jesus to suffer outside the gates of Jerusalem, where He was crucified at a place called Golgotha. As such, Christians are to follow His example in enduring reproach for their faith.

Another perspective considers this an invitation to leave behind the comfort of established religious systems and cultural norms, symbolizing a break with the old covenant law and an entry into the new covenant in Christ. This suggests a movement away from reliance on ritual and tradition toward a faith characterized by grace.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Hebrews 13:13 can be taken as an encouragement for believers to stand firm in their faith despite opposition or unpopularity. It means to not compromise one’s beliefs for the sake of acceptance or to avoid conflict. It also carries the implication of being willing to be marginalized for the sake of truth and the Christian gospel.

The verse may also inspire Christians to consider the importance of community and mutual support, especially when facing adversity because of their faith.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 11:26 – “Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.”
• Hebrews 13:12 – “Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.”
• 1 Peter 4:14 – “If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.”
• 2 Corinthians 1:5 – “For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Hebrews 13:13 include:

• “Let us go forth” (ἐξερχώμεθα): which has the sense of moving out or departing.
• “Therefore” (οὖν): connecting the previous thought; since Jesus suffered, therefore follow His example.
• “Without” (ἔξω): outside or beyond.
• “The camp” (τῆς παρεμβολῆς): encampment or camp – metaphorically speaking to the place of the Jewish community or place of ‘normal’ religious practice.
• “Bearing” (φέρων): carrying or taking up.
• “His reproach” (τὸ ὄνειδος): the disgrace or insult that Jesus bore.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the ancient world, to be expelled from one’s tribe or community – as symbolized by the camp – was a dire situation, often leading to vulnerability and hardship. Comparably, in many ancient myths, heroes were often exiled or forced to undergo trials outside the comfort of their homes. This Christian teaching diverges as it willingly embraces rather than resists such marginalization as a path to spiritual fulfillment and identification with the divine.

In other religions, such as Judaism and Islam, bearing reproach for one’s faith may also be valued, though the context and implications of doing so differ based on their own scriptures and teachings.

Scientific Perspectives

The intersection of this verse with modern scientific understandings may be minimal, as its focus is more on an ethical response to social dynamics rather than empirical observations. However, studies in psychology and sociology can provide insights into human behavior related to group dynamics, including the willingness of individuals to endure exclusion or impacts on personal well-being from alienation.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentaries offer insights into Hebrews 13:13:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the need for Christians to bear afflictions as Christ did and suggests that true Christians will be willing to sacrifice their establishment in this world for their faith.
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary highlights the contrast between the old covenant practices associated with the “camp” and the new community established in Jesus, which is willing to bear scorn as He did.
• The MacArthur Study Bible explains that “outside the camp” refers to the place of Christ’s crucifixion and likens it to the Old Testament practice of burning the sin offering outside the camp, thus reinforcing the theme of Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for sin.