Overview of Hebrews

Hebrews Introduction

This letter, or Epistle, was written to the Messianic Jews who were referred to as “Hebrews”.

Unlike other Epistles, this one has no introduction to reveal who the author is. However, we have some very clear clues: The language and style are the same as used by the Apostle Paul. The author had three main objectives; to combat possible apostasy, to encourage them to persevere on to spiritual maturity and to comfort them in their persecutions. This letter fits perfectly as the final trilogy of ‘The Just shall Live by Faith’, Habakkuk 2:4: ROMANS which identified the Just; GALATIANS, which tells them how to Live; and HEBREWS which reveals the way to live IS by Faith. Hebrews fits so perfectly with this Truth that most scholars assume the author was Paul. However, the Bible itself gives us a wonderful “clue” in 2 Peter 3:15-16, where Peter is writing to the Messianic Believing Jews and tells them that “…The longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul, also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;…” So Peter reveals that Paul had written to the Hebrews. Peter calls Paul’s letter “Scripture”; so, this would clearly indicate that this letter to the Hebrews was written by Paul. The only other explanation would be that Paul’s letter was lost, and thus a part of Scripture, which is the Bible; is missing! Even though Paul, for some unknown reason to us, failed to identify himself; yet he secretly gives his trademark closing: “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” Hebrews 13:25. Note that the word “Grace” in this context, does not even appear in any of the other Epistles, except those written by Paul. The word “Grace” is used by Peter where it is used as an instruction and not as a blessing. Lastly, the Author asks for his readers to “Pray for us”, only Paul makes that statement in his writings.

If we are to gain God’s Truth from this Epistle, we must remember this letter is written, not just for the Messianic Jews, but for all of us throughout the ages; to strengthen our Faith and show us how to truly Live by Faith. We will see that these Believers are true Believers as the author calls them ‘brethren’, (Heb 3:1, 12) and ‘beloved’, (Heb. 6:9) and ‘partakers of the heavenly calling’, (Heb 3:1) and ‘partakers of Christ, the Messiah’. (Heb 3:14) All of these statements identify them as True Believers. Even the warning of “falling away”, can only be done by one who is already a Believer! The chastening of stating that they have been Believers for a long time and should now be teachers of the Word. (Heb 5:11-14) All these statements tell us this letter is only to true Believers. It is important to understand this Truth so that as we are made aware of the warnings and their consequences, we will understand that they cannot lose their Justification in Christ as they have eternal security in Christ; but they can lose their rewards of being a Faithful and True Overcomer. These rewards are revealed at the Judgment Seat of Christ. In our past studies we have learned how important it is to be a Faithful and True follower of Jesus. In these last days we are warned to beware of false prophets and teachers, those who would lead as away from the Truth in apostasy. We must never, never compromise the Truth of God’s Word with anything, or anyone!

Salvation is not just a one time act of the will. Salvation is identified by three aspects: 1. Justification: A gift from God of everlasting life received by faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. 2. Sanctification: A progressive work in us by the Holy Spirit that involves obedience in Faith and results in works that honor and Glorify Jesus. 3. Glorification: The final result of the Justification and Sanctification. All Believers will be glorified and resurrected and given a body like Christ, However some will have far more glory as reward(s) of their obedience in Faithfully following Jesus on earth. Think of it this way: Justification separates us from the PENALTY of sin. Sanctification separates us from the POWER of sin. Glorification separates us from the PRESENCE of sin.

As we study this Epistle, keep in mind that nearly half, 45%, of this letter is prophetic! Thus these Truths are for the future, for us, and for the Millennium.

As with all of God’s Word, we reap what we sow. Thus is a crucial Truth! Why is this important? So that you prayerfully seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance and direction before you begin your reading and studying. Be open to the leading and direction of the Holy Spirit to show you new and exciting applications in your life and journey in Sanctification. May God, our Creator, Lord, and Savior, richly bless you as you seek to know Yeshua, Jesus, and become more like Him. Shalom!