THEMES
Overarching Theme: Standing firm in the realities of a better covenant
Chapter One Theme: Recognising the role and reign of God the Son
HISTORY
The Hebrews letter does not disclose who it is written by or who exactly it is intended for, although its contents imply a Jewish audience under pressure to renounce Christ. A concluding mention of Timothy in prison suggests a writer who was close to Paul’s team. Both Hebrews and Galatians argue that the Mosaic covenant is surpassed and fulfilled in the new covenant, with the new covenant being God’s original and ultimate plan. However, the styles differ.
Furthermore, as Timothy’s imprisonment is not mentioned by Paul in either of his letters to him, a date after Paul’s death (normally given as around AD 65) is indicated. Mention of Temple activity (e.g. Heb 8:4-5) and the comment about the old covenant’s imminent disappearance (Heb 8:13) may suggest a date prior to the destruction of the Temple in AD 70.
As it was sent from Italy, and Paul is believed to have died in Rome, it might be the work of someone seeking to preserve Paul’s legacy by following up on the pastoral and theological concerns Paul was known to have for those who shared his Jewish heritage.
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Make sure you watch the video covering Hebrews 1 and have a Bible ready in front of you.
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Verses 1-4
These verses establish the role of God the Son in creating and sustaining creation.
They also show how his crucifixion was a victory leading to his post-ascension enthronement It afforded him the exalted position he now holds (see Phil 2:6-11).
Questions
How do these verses portray the broad sweep of Christ coming from the heights of heaven to meet our needs before returning to heaven?
How should we understand the privilege of being spoken to by the Son rather than by the prophets?
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Verses 5-14
In verses 5.14 the writer confirms Christ’s sonship by quoting Bible verses described as ‘words never said to angels.' Here is the list:
Verse 5 quotes Ps 2:7 and 2 Sam 7:14 from Nathan’s prophecy to David.
Verse 6 quotes Deut 32:43 (Septuagent).
Verse 7 quotes Ps 104:4 to set up the place of angels before going on to …
Verses 8-9 that quote Ps 45:6-7 referencing the anointing of the Anointed one which echo ascension references in Phil 2:6-11, Acts 2:33 and Ps 133:2.
Verses 10-12 quote Ps 102:25-27 confirming Christ’s eternal nature.
Verse 13 quotes Ps 110:1 a verse which Jesus uses Himself in Mt 22:41-46.
In verse 14 the writer speaks of the role of angels towards us.
Questions
Which of the Old Testament verses quoted by the writer speaks to you most powerfully and why?
Many speculate about how angels serve us. If we were to focus just on our worship, how would you say angels help us to celebrate God’s goodness, and what, if anything, can we add to their worship?
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KEY TAKEAWAYS
The writer to the Hebrews begins this letter by giving us a powerful insight into the person and work of Christ, particularly of his victorious entry into his ascended glory (having humbled himself to meet our needs). The writer affirms that Christ speaks more powerfully than the prophets he sent, and reigns above the angels he created. This understanding of Christ’s supremacy is foundational for the whole letter.
PRAYER & REFLECTION
End your time as a group, or individually, with prayer. It may be helpful to first focus your thoughts by reading and applying the words of Psalm 24 as a way of bringing together the thoughts raised in this chapter.
Lord Jesus,
We come before you in all humility and deep gratitude.
We thank you for providing purification for our sins on the cross,
and we celebrate your ascension and the overflowing of your anointing.
We are so grateful for the giving of the Holy Spirit.
He changed lives at Pentecost
and continues to change lives today.
Anoint us afresh to receive the empowering words you speak into our lives
and continue to transform us through all that you have done and are doing.
In your name we pray.
Amen