INTRODUCTION TO HEBREWS
The book of Hebrews is assumed to have been written by either Paul or Barnabas. It describes the superiority of Jesus Christ, the covenant he has established, and the basis of the life of a believer.
Hebrews 1:1-10:18 is doctrinal in its approach. In this section, Jesus is revealed to be superior in every way, whether to angels or in the priestly service that he did through the offering of himself for the sin of the world. By his coming, his life, and his death, Jesus bound believers to God for all eternity in a new and superior covenant. He ruled over the powers of sin and death. He is demonstrated in every way to be superior-to be God's own.
Hebrews 10:19-13:25 is practical. Here we learn the superiority of the life of faith given to believers. It is a life that was practiced in Israel's history by the Old Testament heroes from Abraham through the prophets. It was testified by them. They are a shining example for what it is to live by faith in a covenant relationship with God. Through faith we have perfect access to God.

God had revealed himself to the people of Israel throughout their history. He delivered them from their bondage in Egypt, led them by the pillars of cloud and fire, and gave them his word at the holy mountain. Whether they succeeded or failed, God never failed to reveal his love and faithfulness to them. Now, during these last days, Jesus, the Son of God, is the perfect revelation of God's glory to all people. Through him, all things were created, and by his word, all things are sustained. God is perfectly revealed as the one who provides purification to sinners. Jesus is the Son. He is incomparably superior in all creation for he is the radiance and exact representation of God himself.

The author testifies to the Son's superiority by comparing him to angels. Angels were highly revered by the Jews at this time. Since Jesus is the Son of God, how much greater is he than angels! The angels are his, and they worship him. The Son's power and righteousness are eternal. God set him above all things for all eternity because he provided an inheritance of salvation for God's people. Jesus is the perfect representation of our God.


Application: Lord, thank you for revealing yourself through your Son. Help me to look only to Jesus to know your eternal greatness.
One Word: Jesus, the radiance of God's glory