Hebrews – A Call to Commitment:
                                        The Overview     

I.          Why is the letter of Hebrews Neglected?

      1)      Its form seems unusual. 

• Hebrews is grouped with the NT letters but it does not resemble a letter: 1 Cor 1:1-3
• Instead the document begins with a majestic sentence celebrating the dignity of the Son of God through whom God has spoken his final word: Heb 1:1-3

     2)      Its setting in life seems uncertain.

          a.       Who is the Author?
          b.      Who are the recipients? 
          c.       What was the situation?

    3)      Its Argument seems unfamiliar.

        a.       It talks about Jesus in contrast to angels
        b.      It focus on the sacrificial law – The Torah (OT).
        c.       It mentions Melchizedek
        d.      It seems way too long—13 chapters.

II.        How can we get a handle on it?

   1)      Hebrews is not a letter; it is a sermon!

         a.       Heb 13:22 “Word of exhortation.”

• Technical term for sermon: Acts 13:15 

        b.      He wants his audience to listen to the voice of God in the present (tense):  Heb 12:25;
        c.       The Author identifies himself with the Audience: Heb 2:1

   2)      The context is about the Cost of Discipleship

        a.       Their world is falling apart 10:32-34
        b.      In Rome in AD 49, the Jews were expelled from Rome, under Claudius: Acts 18:1-2

 

  3)      Hebrews addressed human frailty.

• The location may be Rome: Heb 13:24
• Fear of death is real: Heb 2:14-15 

 

 4)      Hebrews Expresses the Concern of a Friend.

• He recalled the requirement for discipleship: Mk 8:34-38
• So, he reminds them that they are not alone!
• Peter also remind his readers: 1 Pet 5:9
• When confronted by opposition look to Christ: Heb. 12:2ff  

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