Hebrews Introduction
Introduction
Neither the author nor the specific audience for the book of Hebrews is known. It may be that the people who received the book were from Italy. The author does send greetings to them from those who are from Italy. But it is clear the book was written for Jews who believe in Jesus the Messiah. They were, however, in danger of leaving the faith. The book is clearly written to encourage them. It presents the truths God has revealed in his new covenant. It states that they are far better than the temporary ones of the first covenant. It encourages these new Jewish believers to remain strong in their faith in Jesus.
The book presents two types of teachings. And it goes back and forth between the two types. One type reviews Israel’s history or tells about worship in the temple. The other type presents the challenges based on these teachings. The book presents four pairs of these sets of teachings.
First, the writer states that Jesus and the salvation he brings are the greatest. Jesus is higher and greater than the angels and the law given by Moses.
Second, the writer states that Jesus is our apostle. An apostle is one sent by God on a specific mission. Jesus brings us into a greater peace and a better, renewed land. These are far better than the land Moses and Joshua brought Israel to.
Third, the writer states that Jesus is a more effective high priest. He is better than the priests appointed by the law of Moses.
Fourth, believers are reminded to remain faithful as people have for many, many years. Believers must move forward in faith. They can do that because Jesus is bringing a kingdom that can’t be shaken.
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Hebrews Introduction: NIrV
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