Hebrews

Hebrews

Important Historical Background

The book of Hebrews was written to a Jewish community around the time of the Roman Emperor Nero. The christians at this time were experiencing great persecution because Christianity was an illegal religion at this time (10:32-36). We do not know for sure who wrote the book of Hebrews. Some people believe it was Paul while others believe it could have been Priscilla or Barnabas. 

Character and Nature of God

In Hebrews God reveals Jesus ultimately as the Great Hight Priest. This is the first time in the New Testament that Jesus is revealed as being a high priest. The author presents his case throughout the book proving that Jesus is a valid priest and is much better than the old form of Judaism that the Jews had previously followed (3:1,2; 4:14-10; 7-8:6).

Reason Written

Hebrews was written to the Jewish Christian community who were experiencing persecution during the time of Nero’s rule. Because of their persecution, it would have been easier for them to simply return to Judaism, which was their former way of following God. This book was written to encourage them to continue on despite persecution and warn them of the dangers of apostasy and turning away from following after Christ (3:6-4:16; 6:1-6,10-12; 9:23; 10:32-39; 12:1-17).

Main Idea

The main idea from Hebrews is that Jesus is the best way. The Christians were facing temptation to resort back to the way things by going back to Judaism due to the persecution undergoing Christians at that time. The author wanted the readers to understand that Jesus is the ultimate way and that He is the best way. There was to be no turning back to the old ways but a complete embracing of Jesus as He was the best and only way to God (7:8-28; 10).