By way of introduction, I would like you to note three things about this fabulous Book of Hebrews: Its author, its audience, and its argument.

The Author: Debates have raged for almost two thousand years concerning the author of this book. Many scholars believe it to be Luke while others insist the orator Apollos. It could be Apollos or it could be Luke. One thing, however, is certain: Whoever penned this epistle had an intense understanding of theology combined with an immense Greek vocabulary. And these two factors point me personally to the apostle Paul. Not only did Paul’s brilliant mind give him a greater grasp of the Greek language than any other man throughout history, but his understanding of Old Testament theology was unrivaled as well. In a greater sense, though, the question of authorship doesn’t really matter, for truly, God is the author of Hebrews ultimately.

The Audience: The Book of Hebrews was addressed to Jewish believers who were being pulled back into Judaism. Living in Jerusalem, no doubt each time they heard the trumpets sounding from the courtyard of the temple, reminded of their heritage and history, they found themselves drawn back into the religion and rituals of the Levitical system. Jesus came to establish a New Covenant, the New Testament. That is why there are very sober warnings throughout the book.

The Argument: The argument of the Book of Hebrews is that Jesus Christ is superior to the old way of religion. He is superior in His majesty because, as the Son of God, He is superior to angels, to Moses, to Joshua, and the entire Levitical system. And He is superior in ministry because, as the Son of Man, He died for us. He relates to us. He works with us.

I think you are going to be blessed greatly in the study of this book because the theme and message is to point out the sufficiency and beauty of Jesus – always a grand endeavor. Expanding souls encounter an expanding Christ! And this is why I am particularly enthused about this study volume on the Book of Hebrews, for that epistle has a double dose of growth-producing power – first, because it presents the greatness of Christ as no other New Testament writing does, and, second, because it repeatedly demands a response from the reader. Seriously considered, Hebrews will make us grow and find a bigger Christ.

*The material for these studies is from Jon Courson’s Commentary by Thomas Nelson Inc., R. Kent Hughes Preaching the Word series by Crossway, and Warren W. Wiersbe’s Commentary by Chariot Victor Publishing, unless otherwise noted.