Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Hebrews 13:22

"But I exhort you, brethren, bear with the word of exhortation, for I have written unto you in few words." — Hebrews 13:22 (ASV)

“I urge” (GK 4151) seems to mean something more like “I beg you.” There is appeal in it, but also encouragement. The letter has had its share of rebukes and warnings, and the writer now softens the impact a little with this appeal and with the affectionate address “Brothers.” He calls his letter the “word of exhortation” (cf. Acts 13:15, where this phrase clearly means a homily). So the point here may be that this letter is rather like a written sermon with lots of “exhortation” (GK 4155).

The author goes on to say that he has written only briefly. This letter is short, considering the subject matter. Some of the subjects could have been dealt with at much greater length (cf. 11:32). There has been some straight speaking. So before he finishes, the writer adds this brief section inviting the readers to take it in the right spirit.