Hebrews 13:15

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

Hebrews 13:15 (KJV)

Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and were tempted to revert to their former Jewish practices. The author encourages them to remain steadfast in their faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing His superiority over all things, including the Old Testament laws and sacrifices. This verse belongs to the concluding remarks of the letter, where practical instructions for the Christian life are gathered together.

Meaning

The phrase “By him therefore” points to Jesus Christ as the mediator through whom believers have access to God. Because of His priesthood and His once-for-all sacrifice, believers may approach God with confidence and offer worship that is acceptable to Him. The author then urges them to “offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually.” In the Old Testament, animal sacrifices were offered to God as an act of worship and to seek His forgiveness. Under the new covenant, established through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, believers are called to offer a different kind of sacrifice—the sacrifice of praise. This is not a sacrifice to atone for sin, for Christ has already made that offering once for all. Rather, it is a spiritual sacrifice that flows from faith in Him and is well-pleasing to God.

The verse defines this sacrifice as “the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” The Greek expression can be rendered “the fruit of lips that confess His name,” indicating an open and joyful acknowledgment of God. This sacrifice is not the offering of animals or material possessions, but the offering of heartfelt gratitude and adoration. It involves recognizing and honoring God’s character, attributes, and all that He has done, acknowledging His sovereignty, faithfulness, love, mercy, and grace.

Biblical connections

The language of “fruit of our lips” echoes the Old Testament practice of offering the firstfruits of the harvest to God. Just as the Israelites brought the best of their produce as an offering, believers now bring the fruit of their lips—words of thanksgiving and praise—as a continual offering to God. This connection shows that praise is not merely an emotion but a deliberate act of worship, comparable to the sacrifices of the old covenant.

Application

The word “continually” emphasizes the ongoing nature of this sacrifice. Praise should not be limited to specific times or occasions, such as church services or moments of blessing, but should permeate every aspect of life. Our words and attitudes should consistently reflect a heart of gratitude toward God, even in difficult circumstances. When we offer the sacrifice of praise, we direct our thanks to God’s name, which means we honor His character and His actions on our behalf. This practice strengthens our relationship with Him, reminds us of His faithfulness, and encourages others who hear our testimony.

Reflection

Hebrews 13:15 calls every believer to a life marked by continual thanksgiving. Because Christ has opened the way to God, our praise is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is a sacrifice that costs us something—our pride, our complaints, our self-focus—but it is also a joy, for it draws us near to the God who has saved us and given us a city that is to come. Let us therefore offer the fruit of our lips with sincere hearts, giving thanks to His name at all times.