Hebrews - Introduction
The author is not stated and is not definitely known. One good possibility is that it was Paul. However, the language of Hebrews does not match that of any of Paul's other known books in the Bible. One possibility is that Hebrews is a speech or written work by Paul in Aramaic that was translated into Greek by another person, so that the Greek reflects them and not Paul. Another possible author is Silas, and especially if he is the one who wrote down in Greek I Peter for Peter, as the language in it and Hebrews is very similar. Both of these people are mentioned in ancient writings as the possible authors.
Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians, likely around 65 AD. It was written to a particular group that was in existence for quite a while (5:11-12 and 10:32), and had underdone persecution (10:32-34). Because this book of the Bible was written to Jewish Christians, it brings together the Old Testament and the New Testament better than any other book, showing how the Old Testament was fulfilled in the New Testament, and especially how through Jesus.
Hebrews 1 - The Superiority of God's Son
- What are the two ways verses 1-2 say that God has spoken to us? How did God speak to us through the prophets? Why was God's speaking through Jesus superior to this?
- Who does Hebrews say created the universe? For what purpose was it created?
- What 7 things do verses 2-3 tell us about who Jesus is and what He has and is doing?
- What do we learn about angels from this chapter?
- How is Jesus superior to the angels? How does the writer of Hebrews prove this?