New Testament 101: Hebrews
Many religious people in the first century after Jesus’ birth, both Jews and Gentiles, had questions about the religion of the early Christians. They were looking for evidence that this new faith was genuine. Jews had the miracle of the crossing of the Red Sea and the agreement made with God at Mount Sinai to support their faith. But what miracles did Christians have? Jews had beautiful worship ceremonies and a high priest who offered sacrifices in the temple so that the people would be forgiven. But what did Christians have? How could this new Christian faith, centered in Jesus, offer forgiveness of sins and friendship with God?
The letter to the Hebrews was written to answer exactly these kinds of questions. In it the author (traditionally Paul the Apostle was thought to be the author. However, since the third century this has been questioned, and the consensus among most modern scholars is that the author is unknown) tells the readers how important Jesus really is. He is greater than any of God’s angels (1:5-14), greater than any prophet, and greater even than Moses and Joshua (2:1-4, 14). Jesus is the perfect high priest because he never sinned and, by offering his own life, he has made the perfect sacrifice for sin once and for all time. (9:23-10:18). By his death and return from death he has opened the way for all people to come to God (4:14-5:10, 7:1-8,13).
This letter has much to say about the importance of faith. The writer points out that what Jesus offers comes only by faith. And this faith makes his followers sure of what they hope for and give them proof of things that cannot be seen. The writer praises God’s faithful people of the past (11: 1-40) and encourages those who follow Jesus now to keep their eyes on him as they run the race (12: 1-3).
What does it mean to have a high priest like Jesus?
Jesus understands every weakness of ours, because he was temped in every way that we are. But he did not sin! So, whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness and we will find help. (4:15, 16)
A Quick Look at This Letter
1. The Greatness of God’s Son (1:1-4)
2. Jesus is Greater Than Angels (1:5-2:18)
3. Jesus is Greater Than Moses and Joshua (3:1-4:13)
4. Jesus is the Great High Priest (4:14-7:28)
5. Jesus Brings a Better Agreement (8:1-9:22)
6. Jesus’ Sacrifice is Once and for All (9:23-10:31)
7. Some of God’s People Who Had Great Faith (11:1-40)
8. Follow the Example of Jesus (12:1-13, 19)
9. Final Prayers and Greetings (13:20-25)
Pastor Beryl