Hebrews is a powerful and deeply theological letter showing the supremacy of Jesus Christ over every aspect of the old covenant. Written to believers tempted to turn back to their former ways, Hebrews presents Jesus as the better revelation, better priest, better sacrifice, and mediator of a better covenant. The book encourages perseverance by fixing eyes on Christ and warns of the dangers of drifting away from the faith.
Background
Author: Unknown (traditionally attributed to Paul, but not stated)
Audience: Jewish Christians facing pressure, persecution, and temptation to return to Judaism
Date: AD 60–70
Location Written: Uncertain
Context: The early Jewish believers were suffering hardship and wrestling with the cost of following Jesus. Some were tempted to abandon Christianity and return to temple worship. The writer argues that Jesus fulfills and surpasses every aspect of the old covenant system. Through comparisons, warnings, and encouragements, Hebrews calls believers to endurance, faith, and confidence in Christ’s perfect work.
Characters
- Jesus Christ — supreme Son of God, High Priest, and perfect sacrifice
- Author of Hebrews — inspired teacher urging perseverance and faith
- Hebrew Believers — audience struggling with persecution and spiritual drift
- Angels — referenced to show Christ’s superiority
- Moses — faithful servant contrasted with Christ’s greater role
- Melchizedek — priestly figure used to explain Christ’s eternal priesthood
- Old Covenant Priests — contrasted with Jesus’ perfect and final priesthood
Major Events
- Jesus revealed as superior to angels (Chapters 1–2)
- Warning against drifting from the faith (Chapter 2)
- Jesus compared to Moses with greater authority (Chapter 3)
- Call to enter God’s rest through faith (Chapters 3–4)
- Christ’s priesthood explained through Melchizedek (Chapters 5–7)
- Jesus as mediator of a better covenant (Chapter 8)
- Superiority of Christ’s sacrifice over the old system (Chapters 9–10)
- The hall of faith and examples of perseverance (Chapter 11)
- Call to run with endurance by fixing eyes on Jesus (Chapter 12)
- Final exhortations about community, leaders, and worship (Chapter 13)
Application & Life Lessons
- Jesus is greater than anything we may be tempted to turn back to
- Faith requires perseverance especially in trials
- God’s word is powerful, living, and discerning
- The sacrifice of Jesus provides full access to God
- Spiritual drifting is dangerous and must be resisted
- God disciplines His children for their growth and holiness
- Community, obedience, and worship strengthen perseverance
- Fixing eyes on Jesus gives endurance and hope
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Hebrews
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Hebrews
Podcasts
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Articles
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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