Introduction to the Letter to the Hebrews
Introduction to the Letter to the Hebrews
The letter to the Hebrews is more than a letter many mentioned as an appeal and work of a Judeo-Christian author, not of Paul. But, unfortunately, many New Testament scholars for centuries that dealt with the truth of the author of this epistle, its style, salutation, and not mentioning his name Paul in his work led them to believe that it is the work of a faithful Christian of Jewish origin.
“For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow (flesh), and can discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
Having a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, lets us hold tightly to our confession. 15 For we don’t have a high priest who can’t be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but one who has been tempted like we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us, therefore, draw near with boldness too, of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace for help in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16
Hebrews 12:1-2: “Therefore, since such a great cloud of witnesses surrounds us, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
There were three groups during the ancient time when people were dragged from one religious doctrine to another, leading many to be unbelievers. The Jews, as some claimed to be the first Christian groups followed by the non-Jews (Gentiles), were the faithful heroes of today’s Christians. Without their sacrifices and faithfulness, where would Christianity be today? Understanding and paying attention to which group the Scripture is addressing is essential. Old and New Testament passages have messages for a specific individual or group so as not to be confused or misled about your belief that leads to the truth. We have to focus on what Jesus said, we only have one Father in heaven, and He, our LORD, is mightier than he is. To avoid getting lost in translation, we should also understand that there are scriptures metaphorically and symbolically written.
The writer of the Hebrews mentions Jesus, the high priest, the only begotten Son, better than the angels and heir of all things. With all these being said, it reveals the superiority Christian faith.
To God our all in all.