INTRODUCTION

AUTHORSHIP:

"The Epistle to the Hebrews is an anonymous book. Its authorship has been debated since post-apostolic days. In certain places its language is like Paul's and, on account of the personal reference to Timothy in 13:23, some scholars have attributed the letter to Paul. Although there is no conclusive proof of its authorship, Hebrews, as a part of Scripture, speaks with divine authority. The letter was composed prior to the destruction of Jerusalem, since it is evident that the temple was still standing when Hebrews was written. (Hebrews 10:11 )." Schofield

DATE:

"Various dates have been suggested for the writing of Hebrews, from the 60s to the 90s. However, its use in the book of 1 Clement, which was written in 95, requires a date some time before that. The lack in the book, of any reference to the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem as the divine proof that the Old Testament sacrificial system was finished argues strongly for a date before 70. In addition, the mention of Timothy's recent release (Hebrews 13:23 ), if it was in connection with his ministry to Paul in Rome, requires a date in the late 60s." Ryrie

PURPOSE:

"Whoever the author was, he wanted to reassure Jewish believers that their faith in Jesus as Messiah was secure and reasonable. He tried to prepare them for the impending disaster. The temple with its attendant animal sacrifices would soon be destroyed by the Romans, just as Jesus predicted. There was no need for the temple, because Jesus had cleared the way for direct access to God's throne (Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:19-22 ). Animal blood was no longer necessary, because the blood of the Lamb of God now continually takes away sin (Hebrews 9:18-26 ) His system is vastly superior to the abolished Jewish system." The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible

CONTENTS:

"The theme of the book is the superiority of Christ and thus of Christianity. The words "better," "perfect." and "heavenly" appear frequently....Christ is superior both in His Person and His Priesthood. Favourite passages include 2:3 (so great salvation); 4:12 (the living Word of God); 4:16 (the throne of grace); 7:25 (the intercession of Christ); 11:4-40 (the heroes of faith); 12:1-2 (the Christian race); and 13:20-21 (a great benediction)." Ryrie

Remember there are warnings and exhortations in Hebrews that need to be personally applied.

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QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

1. No author is named for Hebrews. Is it more important to you that the book speaks with divine authority and is therefore, God's Word speaking to the point of your need?

2. Do you have a favourite passage of text in Hebrews? Can you share your reasons with the group?

3. Is it possible to delight in the revelation of this book, but neglect its warnings and exhortations? What suggestions can you make to obtain the most benefit from studying Hebrews?