BACKGROUND NOTES ON THE BOOK OF HEBREWS

Author
The author of Hebrews is not explicitly named in the text. The early Church debated authorship, with suggestions including Paul, Barnabas, Luke, and Apollos. While some early traditions attribute it to Paul, differences in style and vocabulary set it apart from his known letters. The book does, however, reflect Pauline theology. Conservative scholars often lean towards Pauline authorship or at least Pauline influence, with a disciple of Paul (such as Luke or an anonymous companion) possibly responsible for writing it.
 
Why was it written?
Hebrews was written to encourage Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and wavering in their faith. The author exhorts them to remain steadfast in Christ, emphasizing His superiority over the Old Covenant and all its institutions – angels, Moses, the priesthood, and sacrifices. The letter warns against apostasy and urges believers to persevere in faith.
 
How and when was it written?
How and when was it written?Hebrews was likely written before the destruction of the Jerusalem temple in AD 70, since it discusses temple sacrifices in the present tense, implying they were still ongoing. Most conservative scholars date the book between AD 60-68. It was written in sophisticated Greek, which suggests the author was well-educated and writing to a Hellenistic Jewish audience.
 
First audience and destination
First audience and destinationThe letter was addressed to Jewish Christians, likely living in Rome or another major city with a significant Jewish population. The content suggests they were well-versed in the Old Testament and struggling with pressure to revert to Judaism due to persecution. The emphasis on Jesus' high priesthood and the superiority of the New Covenant was meant to reassure them of their faith's foundation.
 
Literary style
Literary styleHebrews is often classified as an epistle, though it lacks a formal letter introduction. It is structured more like a sermon, with strong rhetorical elements and logical arguments. The book is written in high-quality Greek, indicating an educated author. It frequently quotes the Old Testament, often from the Greek Septuagint, to show how Jesus fulfills its promises.
 
Themes
· The supremacy of Christ: He is greater than angels, Moses, and the Levitical priesthood.
· The New Covenant: Jesus' sacrifice is once for all, replacing the old system of repeated sacrifices.
· Faith and endurance: Believers must hold fast to their faith and not turn back.
· The priesthood of Christ: Jesus is the perfect High Priest who mediates a better covenant.
· Warnings against apostasy: Several strong warnings urge believers to remain faithful.
 
Special features
· Extensive use of Old Testament quotations and interpretations.
· Strong theological exposition on the priesthood of Jesus and the meaning of faith.
· A focus on heavenly realities rather than earthly symbols.
· A unique emphasis on Jesus as both divine and human, making Him the perfect mediator.
 
General structure
· Chapter 1:1-4: Introduction – God's final revelation through His Son
· Chapters 1:5-2:18: Jesus' Superiority Over Angels
· Chapters 3:1-4:13: Jesus Greater Than Moses
· Chapters 4:14-7:28: Jesus as the Great High Priest
· Chapters 8:1-10:18 The New Covenant and the Perfect Sacrifice
· Chapters 10:19-12:29Call to Perseverance and Faith
· Chapter 13:1-25Practical Exhortations and Conclusion
 
 

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