The letter to the Hebrews is addressed to a congregation facing pressure from outsiders. Some members are contemplating withdrawing from the assembly and returning to the local synagogue. The letter presents arguments for why doing so will have catastrophic consequences.
Continue readingHebrews
Purification of Sins
A key point of the opening paragraph in Hebrews is the accomplishment of the Son on behalf of his people, and his exalted position at the “right hand” of God as their High Priest. He secured what none of his predecessors ever could. Unlike his predecessors, through his death, Jesus did, in fact, “achieve the purification of sins,” and afterward, he “sat down” in the “true and greater tabernacle” where he now intercedes for the saints.
Continue readingThese Last Days
God has spoken His superior “word” in His son, Jesus – “upon the end of these days.” This last clause refers to the end of the period epitomized by the Levitical code with its priesthood and animal sacrifices centered in the Tabernacle. The letter shows only limited interest in the final events expected to occur just prior to the return of Christ in glory. The focus is on the present situation of the church and what it must do to avoid apostasy.
Continue readingFULLY QUALIFIED HIGH PRIEST
Jesus qualified as our high priest by participating fully in human sufferings, mortality, and death – Hebrews 2:5-18.
The priesthood of Jesus is one of the key subjects of the epistle to the Hebrews – He has become the “merciful and faithful high priest” for “his brethren.” The topic is anticipated in the opening paragraph of the letter, including the uniqueness of his priesthood. Unlike the Aaronic priests, the “Son achieved purification of sins,” then “sat down” in the “real” Tabernacle.
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