Who Wrote This Book?  The author does not identify himself.  Some think it was Paul, but others suggest Baranabas, Luke or Apollos as possible writers.

Date of Writing:  The letter was written between A.D. 60 and 70.

Written To:  Hebrews sounded a warning to early Jewish believers who, because of persecution and hardship, were tempted to revert back to their Old Testament way of life and give up their newfound faith and freedom in Jesus Christ.

Why It Was Written.  We all face frustrations, obstacles and temptations; one’s spiritual journey is not always even-paced.  The book of Hebrews offers help for  times like these, first by acknowledging the pitfalls and perils, second by encouraging us to never quit.  Hebrews is something like a coach’s pep talk, at halftime:  It can warn of us of the dangers of defeat.

Look for the vivid Old Testament images used by the writer to illustrate what God has done through Jesus Christ.  Notice the strong emotional appeals made to persuade the Jewish believers to stick with the new covenant rather than going back to the old covenant.  The writer makes frequent contrasts between Old Testament ritual law and New Testament faith.  Along the way, you’ll also find strong arguments for the superiority of Jesus Christ.

Key Verses:

Hebrews 1: 1-6  (NLT)

Jesus Christ Is God’s Son

 ¹ Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. ² And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. ³ The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. ⁴ This shows that the Son is far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names.

The Son Is Greater Than the Angels

 ⁵ For God never said to any angel what he said to Jesus:

   “You are my Son. Today I have become your Father.^[a]”

   God also said, “I will be his Father, and he will be my Son.”^[b]

 ⁶ And when he brought his firstborn Son into the world, God said,^[c]

   “Let all of God’s angels worship him.”^[d]