Overview

This lecture introduces the Book of Hebrews, focusing on its historical background, authorship theories, date, purpose, audience, structure, main themes, and key terms to lay a foundation for deeper study.

Historical Background & Context

• The Book of Hebrews was written for Jewish Christians facing pressure to return to Judaism.
• Early Christian preaching was centered in Jerusalem and directed mainly toward Jews.
• Persecution, especially under Nero in AD 64, forced Christians out of Jerusalem and led to the gospel spreading.
• The destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in AD 70 marked the end of the Jewish sacrificial system.

Authorship & Date

• The author of Hebrews is unknown; early traditions attribute it to Paul, Barnabas, Apollos, Luke, or Clement.
• Paul’s authorship is widely doubted due to different writing style and lack of self-identification.
• Barnabas was an apostle of the priestly tribe of Levi and possessed qualifications for authorship.
• Apollos, suggested by Martin Luther, was a learned Jewish Christian from Alexandria.
• Most scholars date Hebrews before AD 70, likely between AD 63-69, because the Temple's destruction is not mentioned.

Purpose & Audience

• Main purpose: Encourage Jewish Christians to remain faithful to Christ and not revert to Judaism.
• The recipients were likely a known group of Jewish Christians, possibly in Rome, experiencing discouragement and neglecting worship.
• The letter compares Christianity and Jesus to Judaism to prove Jesus’ superiority.

Structure & Main Themes

• Hebrews divides into two main parts: Jesus' superiority (Ch. 1–10:18) and the glory of the church (Ch. 10:19–end).
• Themes include Jesus as superior to prophets, angels, Moses, Aaron, and as fulfillment of the Old Testament.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Judaizers — Jewish Christians demanding Gentiles adopt Jewish customs before becoming Christians.
• Heirs — Individuals legally or spiritually designated to receive an inheritance.
• Last Days — The final era from Pentecost until Christ’s return, following the flood (post-diluvian period).
• Radiance — Jesus is described as sharing the same divine nature as the Father, not merely reflecting but embodying God’s glory.
• High Priest — A mediator between God and people; Jesus is presented as the ultimate high priest.
• Angels — Powerful, intelligent spiritual beings created by God to serve His purposes; not divine or to be worshipped.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Read Hebrews Chapter 1 before the next session.
• Review and memorize key terms and their definitions for discussion.