The content of Hebrews reveals that the letter was written to Jewish Christians. The letter's recipients may have been part of several house churches within the larger church community in Rome. It seems that some of the people were at the point of forsaking their faith in Jesus because of persecution and discouragement. Others were being tempted to turn back to Judaism and, therefore, finding an excuse to impose certain old covenant regulations on new covenant Christianity.
Some have suggested that Barnabas may have written the letter. However, among the men mentioned by name in the New Testament, Luke's description of Apollos in Acts 18:24-28 most perfectly fits the profile of the author of Hebrews. Regardless of who wrote Hebrews, this much is certain: the author wrote with an insight, authority and revelation of one inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Hebrews is more like sermon than a letter. The author describes his work as a "word of exhortation" (13:22). Exhortation is an urgent appeal, a challenge, encouragement or warning to do what is right and to follow God's plans and purposes for spiritual salvation.
Hebrews has three major divisions. First, Jesus as the powerful Son of God is declared to be God's full and complete revelation to humanity - greater than the prophets, angels Moses, the lawgiver, and Joshua, the conqueror. This section contains serious warnings about the consequences of ignoring spiritual salvation, drifting from Christ or hardening one's heart in rebellion and unbelief toward God. The second division, presents Jesus as a high priest whose qualifications, character and ministry far surpass every aspect of the Old Testament Jewish priesthood. As the ultimate mediator between God and man, Jesus offered the perfect sacrifice - His own life - to pay the complete penalty for humanity's offenses against God. Jesus' work is perfect and everlasting. This section warns believers against remaining spiritually immature or falling away from faith after experiencing a personal relationship with Christ.
Nine special features characterize this letter. 1. It is unique among New Testament letters in its format: it begins like a treatise, proceeds like a sermon, and concludes like a letter. 2. It is the New Testament's most polished book. 3. It is the only New Testament writing that develops the concept of Jesus' high priestly ministry. 4. Its Christology is richly varied, using more than twenty names and titles for Christ. 5. Its key word is "better" (13 times).6. It contains the most prominent chapter in the Bible on faith. 7. It is filled with Old Testament references and allusions that provide rich insight into early Christian interpretation of Old Testament history and worship. 8. It warns about the dangers of spiritual apostasy more than any other New Testament writing. 9. It teaches that effective pastoral encouragement and warning are deeply grounded in accurate Bible-based views of God, His standards and the teaching of His Word.
No comments:
Post a Comment