Introduction to the Epistle to the Hebrews Most likely when the Book of Hebrews was
written, Christianity wasn't a religion tolerated by the Roman Empire,
while Judaism was.
The intended readers of this letter seemed to have been Jewish Christians who,
due to the threat of persecution, were thinking of abandoning their faith in
Christ and lapsing back into Judaism.
The Book of Hebrews is a masterful document written to these Jewish
Christians, exhorting them to hold fast to their confession of Jesus Christ as Savior
and Lord.
Judaism expressed true worship and devotion to God.
The commandments and rituals, along with the prophets, described God's promises and
revealed the way to forgiveness and salvation.
But what was needed was the understanding that when Jesus Christ came, He came
fulfilling the law and the prophets, conquering sin, shattering all barriers to
God, and freely providing eternal life to all who believe in Him.
The Book of Hebrews carefully explains that Jesus Christ completes the hope of
Israel, that He is the superior High Priest, and that He alone is sufficient
for our salvation.
We do not know who wrote the Book of Hebrews, but we do know that it was
written before A.D.
70, when Jerusalem and the Temple were destroyed, which brought an end to the
Jewish sacrificial system.
As you listen, ask yourself if you live as though Jesus Christ is better than any
other focus of your life.
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