Concluding Words

1Let brotherly love continue. 2Stop neglecting to show hospitality to strangers, for by showing hospitalitya some have had angels as their guests without being aware of it. 3Continue to remember those in prison as if you were in prison with them, as well as those who are mistreated, since they also are only mortal.b

4Let marriage be kept honorable in every way, and the marriage bed undefiled. For God will judge those who commit sexual sins, especially those who commit adultery.

5Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for Godc has said, “I will never leave you or abandon you.”d 6Hence we can confidently say, “The Lorde is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?”f

7Remember your leaders, those who have spoken God’s word to you. Think about the impact of their lives, and imitate their faith. 8Jesus, the Messiah,g is the same yesterday and today—and forever!

9Stop beingh carried away by all kinds of unusual teachings, for it is good that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by food lawsi that have never helped those who follow them.

10We have an altar, and those who serve in the tent have no right to eat at it. 11For the bodies of animals, whose blood is taken into the sanctuary by the high priest as an offering for sin, are burned outside the camp. 12That is why Jesus, in order to sanctify the people by his own blood, also suffered outside the city gate. 13Therefore go to him outside the camp and endure the insults he endured. 14For here we have no permanent city but are looking for the one that is coming. 15Therefore, through him let us always bring God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of our lips that confess his name. 16Do not neglect to do good and to be generous, for God is pleased with such sacrifices.

17Continue to follow and be submissive to your leaders, since they are watching over your souls as those who will have to give a word of explanation. By doing this, you will be letting them carry out their duties joyfully, and not with grief, for that would be harmful for you.

18Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. 19I especially ask you to do this so that I may be brought back to you sooner.

20Now may the God of peace, who by the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep, 21equip you with everything goodj to do his will, accomplishing in usk what pleases him through Jesus, the Messiah.l To him be glory forever and ever!m Amen.

Final Greeting

22I urge you, brothers, to listen patiently to my encouraging message,n for I have written you a short letter.o 23You should know that our brother Timothy has been set free. If he comes soon, he will be with me when I see you.

24Greet all your leaders and all the saints. Those who are from Italy greet you.

25May grace be with all of you!p