King James Version

What Does Hebrews 13:21 Mean?

“Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. working: or, doing”

Context

But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner.

Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, covenant: or, testament

Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. working: or, doing

And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words.

Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Make you perfect.**—To “make perfect” is the translation of two different words in this Epistle. In the one, which is of frequent occurrence (Hebrews 2:10; Hebrews 10:1; Hebrews 12:23, *et al.*)*, *“perfect” stands contrasted with that which is immature, which has not attained its end and aim. The other, which is used here (and in a somewhat different sense in Hebrews 10:5; Hebrews 11:3), rather conveys the thought of completeness, complete equipment or preparation. **Every good work.**—The best authorities read “every good thing;” and below, substitute “us” for “you.” **Working.**—Literally, *doing, *or *making.* The words of Philippians 2:12-13, are different, but the general thought is the same. “Well pleasing” recalls Hebrews 11:5; Hebrews 12:28; Hebrews 13:16. (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:10.) **Through Jesus Christ.**—That is, “working in us through Jesus Christ that which is well-pleasing in His sight.” In Hebrews 13:20 (as in Hebrews 2:9) we read of the exaltation of “Jesus.” Here, where the subject of thought is the lasting mediation of our High Priest, the writer introduces the complete name “Jesus Christ,” thus preparing for the doxology which follows. That this ascription of praise is addressed to our Saviour (as in 2Timothy 4:18; Revelation 1:6; 2Peter 3:18), it seems hardly possible to doubt. **Glory.**—Rather, *the glory.* (See Galatians 1:5.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hebrews 13:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.