What does Hebrews 13:9 mean?

Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. Hebrews 13:9

Explanation

The verse Hebrews 13:9 cautions against being swayed by various and alien teachings, implying religious or doctrinal teachings that differ from those established as true and sound by the Christian faith. It emphasizes the importance of having one’s heart stabilized by grace rather than focusing on dietary laws, which is referred to as “meats” in this context. The “meats” may symbolize Jewish food laws or possibly other forms of ascetic practices that were common in the Hellenistic world. The key message here is the superiority of internal grace over external observances, pointing out that such observances have not proven beneficial to those who have been preoccupied with them.

Historical Context

Hebrews was likely written for a community familiar with the Old Testament and Jewish traditions, which is reflected in the constant reference to Old Testament figures and the comparisons between the old and new covenants. The epistle may have been written before the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in 70 A.D. At this time, there were many different teachings circulating about what it meant to be a follower of Jesus, and some of these teachings could lead believers away from the essential truths of Christian doctrine.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse reflects the concept of “Sola gratia,” meaning that salvation is by grace alone, a central tenet of the Protestant Reformation. It highlights that spiritual well-being and right standing with God come from divine grace and not from adherence to religious laws or rituals. Some theologians see this as a reinforcement of the New Testament message that faith in Christ supersedes the Old Testament law.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, the teaching in Hebrews 13:9 encourages believers to focus on what builds up the heart—spiritual grace—rather than on external religious practices that may lead to a false sense of piety. It suggests that individuals should avoid being distracted by new and varied teachings that deviate from the core message of the Gospel and instead should seek to grow in inner spiritual maturity.

Cross-References

• Galatians 1:6-7: “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.”
• Ephesians 4:14: “That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;”
• Romans 14:17: “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”

Language Study

The term “divers” is an archaic term that means “various” or “diverse.” The word “strange” can mean foreign, or not according to the standard teaching. “Doctrine” refers to teachings or instructions. The phrase “heart be established” suggests the idea of being strengthened or made firm. “Grace” here refers to the unmerited favor of God. “Meats” is a reference to food but in the context of Hebrews is often interpreted as referring to Jewish dietary laws.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The caution against “divers and strange doctrines” can be seen in the broader context of many ancient cultures and religions, where fidelity to one’s own religious teachings was an important value. The Jewish tradition, with its emphasis on the Torah and the dietary restrictions found in Leviticus, illustrates the care with which religious laws were to be followed. In contrast, Hellenistic religions often featured a more diverse pantheon of gods and practices, which might have been considered “strange” to the Jewish Christian audience of Hebrews.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives usually do not directly inform interpretations of verses that deal with doctrinal matters. However, modern nutritional science could provide insights into the historical discussions about “meats.” Scientific understanding of diet and health could shed light on why certain dietary laws may have been established and why the author of Hebrews might argue that grace, rather than dietary practices, is what truly benefits believers.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have offered various interpretations of Hebrews 13:9. Some assert that this verse addresses the problem of Judaizing tendencies, where Jewish Christians attempted to impose Mosaic Law on Gentile converts. Others see it as a broader warning against any teachings that might detract from Christian liberty and the centrality of Christ’s sacrifice. Commentators often highlight the contrast between works and grace, viewing the verse as a reinforcement of the doctrine that faith, not adherence to the law or ritual, is what saves.