Hebrews Lesson 1: Approaching Hebrews

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What does Jesus teach his flesh in regard to obedience?

How to disobey desires

The importance of self-indulgence

How to serve God (correct)

The value of family tradition

What distinguishes mature Christians from those who are not, according to the content?

They attend church more frequently

They have completed all biblical studies

They can recite scripture perfectly

They are skilled in the word of righteousness (correct)

Which priesthood does Jesus's ministry resemblance?

The priesthood of Abel

The priesthood of Melchizedek (correct)

The priesthood of Aaron

The priesthood of Levi

Why does the writer believe some people avoid learning the basics of Christianity?

They have personal reasons for hesitation Signup and view all the answers

What is the metaphor used to describe mature Christians' understanding of their faith?

Getting on the fitness train Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest about 'elementary' doctrines of Christ?

They are foundational for further understanding Signup and view all the answers

What must mature Christians be trained to do according to the content?

Distinguish good from evil Signup and view all the answers

What overall theme does the author emphasize regarding spiritual maturity?

Growth beyond childish understanding Signup and view all the answers

What is being emphasized as a continuation of the Exodus story for the Jewish Community?

Their faith in Jesus Signup and view all the answers

What does the author encourage the Jewish Community to do when facing persecution?

Reflect on the lineage of faith Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor does the author use to describe the journey of faith?

A long distance race Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, how can individuals lighten their burdens in the race of faith?

By focusing on Jesus Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'crowd' represent in the metaphor of the long distance race?

Saints who have completed their journey Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is identified as a weight that hinders progress in faith?

Self-advancement Signup and view all the answers

What key practice is suggested for maintaining a focus on truth?

Reminding oneself of what is true Signup and view all the answers

What does living in a community of repentance help individuals achieve?

Continued humility and growth Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Jesus in relation to Moses according to the passage?

Jesus is a continuation of Moses's ministry. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between hope and being part of God's house?

One must hold tightly to hope to remain part of God's house. Signup and view all the answers

How does sin affect belief according to the content?

Sin can choke out belief. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'withdraw' suggest in the context provided?

It signifies abandonment of faith. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the journey, what does maintaining confidence relate to?

Continuing to believe God renews confidence. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the statement that 'thoughts become words; words become actions'?

This illustrates how behaviors are influenced by internal thoughts. Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of Jesus being both God and man suggest about his ability as a priest?

He possesses both divine reliability and human compassion. Signup and view all the answers

What does hope represent in the context of this passage?

A theology that underpins Christian belief. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'No one shall teach his neighbor' imply about the role of believers?

Believers have the right to encourage themselves and others. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the statement 'They shall all know me, from the least to the great'?

Everyone has equal access to God's knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

What significant change does Christ's Atonement bring regarding sins?

Sins are completely forgiven and forgotten. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author of Hebrews suggest about the Old Covenant?

It has become obsolete as God's plan evolved. Signup and view all the answers

What restriction is placed on the High Priest in the Old Covenant?

He was allowed in only once a year. Signup and view all the answers

What was required before the High Priest could enter the Holy Place?

The blood of a sin offering. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest about the gifts and sacrifices under the Old Covenant?

They cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper. Signup and view all the answers

What does the content suggest about humanity's efforts in relation to God?

Human efforts are futile in achieving God's standard. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the author in addressing the recipients of the letter?

To encourage perseverance in their Christian faith Signup and view all the answers

Which Old Testament scripture is referenced in Hebrews 1:10-12?

Psalm 102:25-27 Signup and view all the answers

What type of believers is implied to be enduring persecution in Jerusalem?

Christian believers Signup and view all the answers

Which scripture corresponds to Hebrews 10:5-7?

Psalm 40:6-8 Signup and view all the answers

Which passage is mentioned in both Hebrews 2:13 and Isaiah?

Isaiah 8:17 Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the letter, what was a significant concern for the recipients?

The rise of Judaizers in the Mediterranean Signup and view all the answers

Which verse discusses the permanence of God’s promise as referenced in Genesis?

Hebrews 6:14 Signup and view all the answers

What is a key source of the scriptural references found in the letter to the Hebrews?

Old Testament Scriptures Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Holy Spirit play in the context of spiritual growth?

It illuminates and empowers the word of God. Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is required to avoid 'the Drift' in faith?

Paying close attention to what has been heard. Signup and view all the answers

What is Jesus depicted as in relation to humanity's role?

The prototype for what humanity should aspire to be. Signup and view all the answers

What does the saying 'crowned with glory and honor' refer to?

God’s intend for humans to govern wisely. Signup and view all the answers

What dual role does Jesus have as described in the content?

A figure with a future role in the New Creation and a present role. Signup and view all the answers

What is emphasized about Jesus's intercession for humanity?

He intercedes with authority gained through his experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about humanity's future role according to the content?

Humans will fulfill their purposes by imitating Jesus's example. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested as a vital part of maintaining faith?

Rehearsing the things that have been heard. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hebrews Course Information

Course Instructor: Nathan Finochio
Custom Quotes are available for reproduction and utilization of this content in classroom, training, study, teaching, and other environments.
Email address: [email protected]

Hebrews - Lesson One: Approaching Hebrews

A. The Author
- Theology is Pauline - Origen believed the thoughts originated with the apostle, but the wording may have come from the teachings of a teacher/apostle.
- Author debated—some scholars think Tertullian believed the author was Barnabas, and Luther believed it was Apollos.
- Author is known to his audience (Hebrews 13:18-23).
- Uses masculine pronouns to describe self (11:32).
- Mentions Timothy (13:23).
- Many early Church fathers suggested it was written by Paul (Clement of Alexandria). Clement described the writing style being similar to the book of Acts and that a mentor, Pantaenus, told him it was written by Paul. Athanasius also thought it was Paul.
- The Greek language of this book is considered “best” or most “technical” in the New Testament.
B. Date
- Impact of Hebrews on a letter written from Rome mid-90 AD suggests Hebrews was written earlier. (1 Clement)
- Date estimated between 65 and 90 AD.
- Commentators favor a pre-70 AD date (reference to the Jewish worship and temple rites) and lacked a specific mention of the catastrophic event of 70 Jerusalem destruction.
C. Audience
- Believers (adelphoi or “partakers of the heavenly calling” or “enlightened")
- Admonished against unbelief; addressed to the Hebrew Christians.
- Clement of Alexandria (150-215 AD)
- Written to Jewish people.
- Reciepnts' commitment to the Christian faith was being questioned.
- Jewish people, particularly those living throughout the Mediterranean using Hellenistic Greek were the target audience.

Hebrews - Lesson Two: Hebrews 1

A. God Speaking
- God's speaking is ongoing (Psalm 19:2).
- God has spoken through Moses, face-to-face and prophets (Nu 12:7; Ex 33:11).
- Jesus reflects God's glory and expression.
B. The Precise Expression
- Greek word "character" (engraving soft or hot metal, pattern/image of expression) .
- Coin-making example of printing press 15th C.
- God’s exact portrait is Jesus- Law and prophets were “sketches” of God.
C. Father's Right Hand
- The Trinity and foundational doctrine of Christianity.
- Jesus is equal with God but serves as the Father's servant.
- Father is first among equals (equality != function).
D. Greater Than The Angels
- Messiah is always greater than angels.
- Psalm 2:7 & 2 Samuel 7:14 reference.
- Messiah is the Son of David.
- Salvation is emphasized.
- Angels are servants, not God or Messiah.

Hebrews - Lesson Three: Hebrews 2

A. The Drift
- The Holy Spirit guides, empowers, and inspires spiritual growth, faith.
- Importance of listening to God's word.
- Importance of constant remembrance of God’s message to avoid losing faith.
B. How to Be Human
- Jesus is the prototype of human beings.
- Humanity's role in the world is described.
- Humanity’s ultimate destiny described in Psalm 8.
- Jesus, Son of Man, is the Son of God.

Hebrews - Lesson Four: Hebrews 3

A. Greater Than Moses
- Moses portrayed as facing to face with God.
B. The Deceitfulness of Sin
- Dangers of complacency and self-deception.
- The pursuit of righteousness to overcome sin is illustrated.
C. Don't Stop Believing
- Importance of perseverance despite difficulties and challenges to grow in faith.

Hebrews - Lesson Five: Hebrews 4

A. God's Rest
- Biblical rest is ceasing from trying to be God and pleasing others.
- Biblical rest is the here and now, not just the Sabbath rest.
- God's activity in the here and now.
- Israelite example of trust and obedience.

Hebrews - Lesson Six: Hebrews 5

A. Learning the Family Business
- Jesus, as God and man, learned obedience.
- Jesus's human experience to understand humanity fully.
- Jesus's role as high priest.

Hebrews - Lesson Seven: Hebrews 6

A. ABC's
- The need and importance of learning and developing spiritual maturity in Christ.
- Important foundational concepts of Christianity that must be understood.
B. The Anchor
- The significance of Jesus as a lasting anchor and guide in difficult situations.
- Importance of faith rooted in commitment to Christ.

Hebrews - Lesson Eight: Hebrews 7

A. Who is Melchizedek?
- Importance of understanding Melchizedek's description.
- Melchizedek's priesthood's comparison to the Levitical priesthood.
- Melchizedek typifies Jesus’s eternal priesthood.
B. Jesus's Eternal Priesthood
- Jesus is a better priest than the Levitical priests.
- Jesus's priesthood is emphasized as eternal and superior, not tied to temporary limitations.

Hebrews - Lesson Nine: Hebrews 8

A. Doll House
- The importance of the Old Testament's tabernacle and temple are a comparison to God’s real presence and relationship.
B. A New Covenant Predicted
- Jeremiah’s prophecy as a comparison to God’s new covenant.
- God's new plan to dwell with people
- No more earthly systems needed for God's presence since Jesus.

Hebrews - Lesson Ten: Hebrews 9

A. NYC Under Construction
- Tabernacle and Temple regulations—illustration of the Old Covenant's imperfections.
B. No More Sacrifices
- Blood sacrifices of the Old Covenant are inadequate to atone for sin
- Significance of Jesus's sacrifice and eternal priesthood.

Hebrews - Lesson Eleven: Hebrews 10

A. FIAT
- Animal sacrifices do not eliminate sin.
- Jesus’s sacrifice is permanent and sufficient.
- God's plan and the work of Jesus are final and complete.

Hebrews - Lesson Twelve: Hebrews 11

A. What God Says Matters
- Faith's role in our lives and understanding God’s plan.
- Faith is belief in what is true even without evidence.
- God always provides for humanity. The importance of trusting God’s plan over human plans.

Hebrews - Lesson Thirteen: Hebrews 12

A. Long Distance Running
- Importance of ongoing perseverance in faith and endurance of difficulties and trials.
- The significance of a community of believers to encourage and support each other.
B. Better Than Sinai
- Importance of the New Covenant over the Old Covenant. Jesus’s example of perfection.

Hebrews - Lesson Fourteen: Hebrews 13

A. How to Worship God
- Importance of loving one another and caring for others.
- Christians should imitate the life and faith of their leaders.
- Importance of worship, honor (God and others), and support.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore the foundational aspects of the book of Hebrews in this first lesson. We delve into the authorship debates and key theological insights that shape the understanding of this epistle. This comprehensive overview sets the stage for deeper study into the text.