The Book of Hebrew – Introduction

Bible Study Lesson:

Heb 1:1-4

Introduction to the book of Hebrew:

• The book of Hebrew was written to mainly Jewish people to seriously consider Christianity (as name implies).
• The author and the exact location of readers are unknown.
• Written to those who have heard the gospel.
• It mainly answers two questions.
• Is Jesus really God? The author uses Old testament references, prophecies and comparisons with Angels. leaders, priests to prove that.
• What is your Response? (Hebrew 2:3 – “How can we escape, if we ignore such a great salvation?”)
• There are about 80 references to Old Testament!

Background:

• Jewish people under roman rule.
• Jewish traditions that goes back to thousands of years.
• There was sudden unusual growth of people calling themselves, “Christians”!

What was at stake for the ‘Christians’?

• Excommunication from the community
• Persecution, Prison
• Torture, Death
• (Also check, Conditions of Christian Discipleship)

Hebrews 1: 1-4

Q. How is time separated in this passage?

• In the Past (before the Son)
• In these last days

Q. What is very encouraging thought in verse 1?

• God has spoken!
• He is not silent, he has not forsaken us.
• But he has communicated with mankind.

Q. What are the ways in which God communicate?

• Through prophets (God’s chosen people who delivered God’s words to his people)
• Many ways – read The Ways in Which God Speaks.

Q. What are the attributes to the ‘Son’?

• Appointed heir of all things
• Maker of the whole universe
• The radiance of God’s glory
• Exact representation of his being
• Sustainer of all things by his words
• Provided purification for sins
• Sitted on the right hand of God in heaven
• superior than Angels

Q. What does it mean to be ‘Exact representation of God’s being’?

• Like Father, son reflects his character, nature, thoughts, actions and being!

Application:

• If God has spoken, what is your response? (Hebrew 2:3)
• If Jesus is what he claims to be, that changes everything. If God has truly spoken through Jesus, then his words are the most important. This is the Greatest News, ever told!

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