Paul concluded his epistle to the Hebrews with some brief teachings and statements of counsel.
How should we treat strangers and those “in bonds”? In Paul’s epistle to the Hebrews, he taught that we are all brothers and sisters in Christ, and should love one another (Hebrews 13:1). We should show compassion and charity to all, no matter if they be strangers, “in bonds,” or our closest friends (Hebrews 13:2). We are all one in Christ.
How is marriage looked upon? Paul taught that marriage is “honorable" (Hebrews 13:4) and that we should look at marriage as a sacred covenant between a man and woman and not something to be taken lightly. When two are married, they become one (Matt 19:5) and should faithfully love one another with all their hearts. (D&C 42:22)
What warnings are given about covetousness? Paul advises the Hebrews to be content with what they have and to not covet that of their neighbor (Hebrews 13:5). He comforts them that the Lord will always provide for and will always be with those who live by the commandments and are worthy.
What is “the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever”? God is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). We have seen throughout history how man and societies are constantly changing. One constant that we can always rely on is the gospel of Jesus Christ. "God, who is the same “yesterday, today, and forever” (2 Nephi 29:9), continues to reveal scripture in modern times as He did in ancient times. Latter-day prophets counsel people everywhere to study the scriptures daily, including the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price.” (Scriptures) So, when we find ourselves in need of release of this whirlwind of a world we live in, we can turn to the scriptures; to our constant; to our Lord.
How are we sanctified? We are sanctified through the atonement of Jesus Christ. Be cause of the atoning sacrifice that our Savior made for us, if we are worthy and true to our covenants, we can repent and be forgiven of our sins, so that we might return to live with Him again one day. There is a scripture in the Book of Moroni I’d like to share, “And again, if ye by the grace of God are perfect in Christ, and deny not his power, then are ye sanctified in Christ by the grace of God, through the shedding of the blood of Christ, which is in the covenant of the Father unto the remission of your sins, that ye become holy, without spot” (Moro. 10:33; emphasis added).
How do we respond to those who rule over us? Paul instructs, "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls” (Hebrews 13:17). To me, this would mean our Prophets and the leaders of the Church who speak for our Savior. Jesus Christ has given them the authority and guidance to lead us and we must have faith that they will keep us on the righteous path to our eternal destination.
Who did Paul ask the people to pray for? "Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly” (Hebrews 13:18). Paul is asking the Hebrews to pray for him and the other apostles and those who are looking out for them that they might be good leaders and keep them on the path of righteousness. This touched me because Paul was showing humility by asking for strength and support from his brothers and sisters.
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