Keys of Truth: Hebrews (Chapter 1)

Introduction to Hebrews

Author: This is the first of the General Epistles (which are sometimes called the Catholic or Universal Epistles). There are eight in all. With the exception of Hebrews, these eight are named after their authors, whereas Paul's letters are named after their recipients. The author of the Book of Hebrews is unknown. However, many suggestions have been made. Tertullian (c. A.D. 155-222) ascribed the work to Barnabas. However, a contemporary, Clement of Alexandria, was of the opinion that Paul wrote it. Later, Origin (c. A.D. 185-254) noted two other opinions, that either Clement of Rome or Luke wrote the book. Origin concluded, "God only knows for certain."

Date of writing: A.D. 68. Many references to Jewish sacrifices and priesthood are in this book. The absence of any reference to the destruction of the temple and priesthood suggests that the sacrificial system was still operative when the book was written. Since the forces of Rome destroyed the temple in A.D. 70, a date somewhat earlier is plausible.

Theme: Heaven's last word. "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son" (1:1). So begins the epistle, indicating its theme. The burden of the writer is to demonstrate the finality and superiority of Christ. He does this through a series of contrasts in which Christ is shown to be higher than angels, Moses, and priests.

Purpose: This epistle was written to strengthen the endurance of persecuted Christians (10:32-39). If the dating of the book is correct, then these would likely have been Hebrew Christians being persecuted by Jews during the rebellion against Rome. Persecution was common throughout Christian history, as Hebrews testifies. Jewish believers in Jesus were under attack by their fellow countrymen. As a result, some wavered in their commitment to Christ. This epistle urges them to stand fast, since Jesus is God's last word to man.

1) In the past God spoke to His people through prophets. God used His prophets at different times and in different ways.

2) However, in the last days God has spoken to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. God has made Jesus responsible for everything. God, by the agency of His Word (Jesus) has made the universe and everything in it.

3) Jesus is the manifestation of God’s glory and the very likeness of His being; Jesus is everything that God is.

4) God holds everything in the universe together by the power of His Word. And Jesus after cleansing people from their sins received the highest distinction (honor) and position in heaven. He sits at the right hand of God the Father. Jesus the Son of God is greater than all of the inhabitants of heaven, even the angels; having been given a name superior to every name given in heaven or earth.

5) God has never called any of His angels son. He has never said to any angel, “I will be your Father, and you will be my Son.”

6) God commanded all of the angels to worship Jesus.

7) God makes the angels as the wind, and His servants (ministers) flames of fire.

8) God proclaimed that Jesus would sit upon His throne forever. Jesus rules His kingdom with justice.

9) Jesus loves the things that are right, and hates the things that are wrong. For this reason God has anointed Jesus with the oil of joy.

10) Jesus the “Word of God” has laid the foundation of the earth, and created the heavens.

11) The earth and the heavens will come to an end; being worn out like clothes; however, Jesus will live forever.

12) Jesus will create a new heaven and earth; doing away with the old heaven and earth. However, Jesus will remain the same forever; having unending life.

13) God has never given any angel the honor of sitting at His right hand. This is a privilege reserved for Jesus alone.

14) God sends His angels (they are spirits) to serve (minister for) those who receive salvation.