THE LETTER TO THE
HEBREWS
Introduction: The writer of this letter does not identify himself, but he was obviously well known to the original recipients. Various ideas prevailed among the early church leaders (centering around Paul, Barnabas, and Apollos), but the most famous opinion is that of Origen, who asserted that "who it was that wrote the epistle, God only knows."Even though the name is not known, the letter bears evidence that the author was a second-generation Christian, one who was well versed in the Old Testament, who may have been a Jew, who was a friend of Timothy, and who probably belonged to Paul's circle of friends. He gives evidence of high literary ability and a style closer to classical Greek than that of any other New Testament writer.
The date seems to point to the late sixties of the first century, before the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70. During this decade the fear of persecution was a grim reality for the church in Rome. Very likely this letter was addressed to Jewish Christians in Palestine or in Rome, converts who were being tempted to revert to Judaism or to Judaize the Gospel.
"Better" is a key word of this epistle. The author points to Jesus as the culmination of God;s revelation through the prophets. This divine revelation in the person of Jesus Christ is superior in every respect. The theme of Hebrews is the absolute supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ as Revealer and Mediator of God's grace. More than twenty names and titles are used in referring to Jesus Christ. The offices of Jesus receive special consideration, with particular note of Christ as Priest-King. Frequent warnings are expressed, that the reader might not neglect or reject this great salvation that has been provided in Jesus.
Outline:
- The better Spokesman for God 1.1-4.13
- The better Intercessor or Priest 4.14-7.28
- The superior covenant and offering 8.1-10.18
- The practical appeal 10.19-13.25
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