Title and Author: The book of Hebrews is traditionally titled "The Epistle to the Hebrews." The authorship of Hebrews has been a subject of debate for centuries. While the text itself does not explicitly name its author, early church tradition has attributed it to the Apostle Paul. However, due to differences in style and vocabulary compared to Paul's other epistles, some scholars suggest other possible authors, such as Barnabas, Apollos, or Luke. From a conservative Christian perspective, the divine inspiration of the text is emphasized, regardless of the human author.

Historical Context: Hebrews was likely written before the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in AD 70, as the text refers to the sacrificial system in the present tense. The early Christian community was facing persecution and was tempted to revert to Judaism to avoid suffering. This context is crucial for understanding the exhortations and warnings throughout the book.

Audience: The primary audience of Hebrews was Jewish Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament and the Levitical priesthood. They were likely experiencing pressure to return to traditional Jewish practices, which the author addresses by emphasizing the superiority of Christ.

Purpose: The purpose of Hebrews is to demonstrate the supremacy of Christ over the old covenant and to encourage believers to persevere in their faith. The author seeks to prevent apostasy by highlighting the fulfillment of the Old Testament in Jesus Christ and urging steadfastness in the face of trials.

Genre and Style: Hebrews is an epistle with sermonic elements. It combines theological exposition with practical exhortation, using a sophisticated Greek style.1. God (Hebrews 1:1)
- The supreme being who spoke to the ancestors through the prophets and now speaks through His Son.

2. Jesus (Hebrews 1:2)
- The Son of God, through whom God made the universe and who is the radiance of God's glory.

3. Angels (Hebrews 1:4)
- Spiritual beings who serve God and are mentioned in contrast to Jesus, who is superior to them.

4. David (Hebrews 4:7)
- The second king of Israel, referenced in the context of a psalm attributed to him, emphasizing the importance of not hardening one's heart.

5. Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:6)
- A priest and king of Salem, who is a type of Christ, having no recorded beginning or end, and is mentioned in the context of Jesus' priesthood.

6. Abraham (Hebrews 6:13)
- The patriarch of Israel, known for his faith and the promises God made to him, which are fulfilled in Christ.

7. Isaac (Hebrews 11:9)
- The son of Abraham, who, along with Jacob, is an heir of the promise and lived by faith in the land of promise.

8. Jacob (Hebrews 11:9)
- The son of Isaac and father of the twelve tribes of Israel, who also lived by faith in the promises of God.

9. Esau (Hebrews 11:20)
- The elder son of Isaac, who was blessed by his father concerning things to come, despite selling his birthright.

10. Joseph (Hebrews 11:21)
- The son of Jacob, who by faith spoke of the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and gave instructions about his bones.

11. Moses (Hebrews 11:23)
- The leader of the Israelites who led them out of Egypt, known for his faith and for choosing to suffer with God's people rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.

12. Rahab (Hebrews 11:31)
- A prostitute in Jericho who, by faith, welcomed the spies and was not killed with those who were disobedient.

13. Gideon (Hebrews 11:32)
- A judge of Israel who, by faith, defeated the Midianites with a small army.

14. Barak (Hebrews 11:32)
- A military leader who, with the prophetess Deborah, defeated the Canaanite army.

15. Samson (Hebrews 11:32)
- A judge of Israel known for his great strength and his faith, which led to the defeat of the Philistines.

16. Jephthah (Hebrews 11:32)
- A judge of Israel who, by faith, led Israel to victory over the Ammonites.

17. David (Hebrews 11:32)
- Mentioned again as a man of faith, known for his leadership and heart for God.

18. Samuel (Hebrews 11:32)
- A prophet and judge of Israel who anointed the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David.

19. The Prophets (Hebrews 11:32)
- A collective reference to the prophets of Israel who, through faith, accomplished great things and suffered for God's sake.1. Heaven (Hebrews 1:3)
- Heaven is referenced as the place where Jesus sits at the right hand of the Majesty on high, symbolizing His divine authority and completed work of redemption. "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high."

2. Egypt (Hebrews 3:16)
- Egypt is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' exodus and their subsequent rebellion in the wilderness. It serves as a historical reference to the deliverance of God's people. "For who were the ones who heard and rebelled? Were they not all those Moses led out of Egypt?"

3. Wilderness (Hebrews 3:8)
- The wilderness is where the Israelites wandered for forty years due to their unbelief and disobedience. It symbolizes a place of testing and rebellion. "Do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion, in the day of testing in the wilderness."

4. Jerusalem (Hebrews 12:22)
- Jerusalem is referred to in a spiritual sense as the "heavenly Jerusalem," representing the city of the living God and the ultimate destination for believers. "Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem."

5. Mount Zion (Hebrews 12:22)
- Mount Zion is used symbolically to represent the spiritual home of God's people, contrasting with Mount Sinai, where the law was given. It signifies a place of grace and divine presence. "Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem."1. The Supremacy of Christ (Hebrews 1:1-4): The book begins by establishing the superiority of Christ over the prophets and angels. It highlights that God has spoken through His Son, who is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being.

2. Christ Superior to Angels (Hebrews 1:5-14): The author argues that Christ is superior to angels, using Old Testament quotations to show that Jesus is the Son of God, worshiped by angels, and seated at the right hand of God.

3. Warning Against Neglecting Salvation (Hebrews 2:1-4): The author warns readers not to drift away from the message of salvation delivered by Christ, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to what they have heard.

4. Jesus Made Fully Human (Hebrews 2:5-18): This section explains why Jesus had to be made fully human, to suffer and die, so that He could bring many sons to glory and become a merciful and faithful high priest.

5. Christ Greater than Moses (Hebrews 3:1-6): The author compares Jesus to Moses, stating that while Moses was faithful as a servant in God's house, Christ is faithful as a Son over God's house.

6. Warning Against Unbelief (Hebrews 3:7-19): Using the example of the Israelites' unbelief in the wilderness, the author warns readers to remain faithful and not harden their hearts.

7. The Promise of Rest (Hebrews 4:1-11): The author speaks of a promised rest for God's people, encouraging them to enter this rest through faith and obedience.

8. The Living and Active Word of God (Hebrews 4:12-13): The Word of God is described as living, active, and sharper than any double-edged sword, able to judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

9. Jesus the Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16): Jesus is presented as the great high priest who has passed through the heavens and can sympathize with human weaknesses, encouraging believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence.

10. The Priesthood of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:1-10): The author introduces the concept of Jesus as a high priest in the order of Melchizedek, emphasizing His eternal priesthood.

11. Warning Against Falling Away (Hebrews 5:11-6:12): The author warns against spiritual immaturity and the danger of falling away, urging readers to move beyond elementary teachings and grow in faith.

12. The Certainty of God's Promise (Hebrews 6:13-20): The author reassures readers of the certainty of God's promises, using the example of God's promise to Abraham and the unchangeable nature of His purpose.

13. The Superiority of Melchizedek's Priesthood (Hebrews 7:1-28): The author elaborates on the superiority of Melchizedek's priesthood over the Levitical priesthood, highlighting Jesus as the eternal high priest.

14. The New Covenant (Hebrews 8:1-13): The author explains the superiority of the new covenant, established by Christ, which is based on better promises and renders the old covenant obsolete.

15. The Earthly and Heavenly Sanctuaries (Hebrews 9:1-14): A comparison is made between the earthly tabernacle and the heavenly sanctuary, with Christ entering the latter to offer His own blood for eternal redemption.

16. Christ's Sacrifice Once for All (Hebrews 9:15-28): The author emphasizes that Christ's sacrifice was once for all, unlike the repeated sacrifices of the old covenant, and it brings about the forgiveness of sins.

17. A Call to Persevere in Faith (Hebrews 10:19-39): Believers are encouraged to draw near to God with a sincere heart, hold unswervingly to hope, and spur one another on toward love and good deeds, while being warned against willful sin.

18. Faith Defined and Exemplified (Hebrews 11:1-40): Known as the "faith chapter," this section defines faith and provides examples of Old Testament figures who lived by faith, despite not receiving the promises in their lifetime.

19. Exhortation to Endurance (Hebrews 12:1-13): Believers are encouraged to run the race with perseverance, fixing their eyes on Jesus, and to endure hardship as discipline from God.

20. Warning Against Refusing God (Hebrews 12:14-29): The author warns against refusing God, who speaks from heaven, and emphasizes the unshakeable nature of God's kingdom.

21. Concluding Exhortations and Benediction (Hebrews 13:1-25): The book concludes with practical exhortations on love, hospitality, marriage, and leadership, along with a benediction and final greetings.1. The Supremacy of Christ (Hebrews 1:1-4)
- The book begins by establishing the superiority of Christ over the prophets and angels. It emphasizes that God has spoken through His Son, who is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being.

2. Christ as High Priest (Hebrews 2:17)
- Jesus is presented as the merciful and faithful high priest who makes atonement for the sins of the people. This theme is developed extensively, highlighting His role in mediating between God and humanity.

3. Faith and Perseverance (Hebrews 3:6)
- The author encourages believers to hold firmly to their confidence and hope in Christ. The theme of faith is further elaborated in chapter 11, often referred to as the "Faith Hall of Fame."

4. The New Covenant (Hebrews 8:6-13)
- Hebrews contrasts the old covenant, given through Moses, with the new covenant established by Christ. The new covenant is described as superior, with better promises and a more excellent ministry.

5. Rest for God's People (Hebrews 4:1-11)
- The concept of rest is explored, drawing parallels between the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and the spiritual rest available to believers through faith in Christ.

6. The Danger of Apostasy (Hebrews 6:4-6)
- The book warns against falling away from the faith after having received the knowledge of the truth. It stresses the importance of perseverance and maturity in the Christian life.

7. The Role of Suffering and Discipline (Hebrews 12:5-11)
- Suffering is portrayed as a form of divine discipline, intended for the growth and holiness of believers. The author encourages readers to endure hardship as discipline from a loving Father.

8. The Unshakable Kingdom (Hebrews 12:28)
- Believers are reminded of the unshakable kingdom they are receiving, urging them to worship God with reverence and awe. This theme underscores the eternal nature of God's promises.

9. The Call to Holiness and Community (Hebrews 10:24-25)
- The book emphasizes the importance of living a holy life and encouraging one another in the faith. Believers are urged to meet together regularly and spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

10. The Finality of Christ's Sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10-14)
- The once-for-all nature of Christ's sacrifice is highlighted, contrasting it with the repeated sacrifices of the old covenant. This theme underscores the completeness and sufficiency of Jesus' atoning work.1. Heir of All Things (Hebrews 1:2)
Jesus is described as the "heir of all things," indicating His supreme authority and ownership over all creation.

2. Creator (Hebrews 1:2)
Jesus is credited with the creation of the world, emphasizing His divine power and preexistence.

3. Radiance of God's Glory (Hebrews 1:3)
Jesus is the "radiance of God's glory," reflecting God's nature and character perfectly.

4. Exact Representation of God's Nature (Hebrews 1:3)
He is the "exact representation of His nature," underscoring His divine essence and unity with God.

5. Sustainer of All Things (Hebrews 1:3)
Jesus "upholds all things by His powerful word," highlighting His ongoing role in maintaining the universe.

6. Purifier of Sins (Hebrews 1:3)
After making purification for sins, Jesus sat down at the right hand of God, signifying the completion of His redemptive work.

7. Superior to Angels (Hebrews 1:4)
Jesus is described as being "much superior to the angels," indicating His exalted status.

8. Son of God (Hebrews 1:5)
The title "Son" emphasizes His unique relationship with God, distinct from angels and humans.

9. Firstborn (Hebrews 1:6)
As the "firstborn," Jesus holds a position of preeminence and honor.

10. God (Hebrews 1:8)
The Father addresses the Son as "God," affirming His divine nature.

11. Lord (Hebrews 1:10)
Jesus is called "Lord," a title of authority and divinity, linking Him to the Creator.

12. Apostle (Hebrews 3:1)
Jesus is referred to as the "apostle," meaning one sent by God, emphasizing His mission.

13. High Priest (Hebrews 3:1; 4:14)
As the "high priest," Jesus mediates between God and humanity, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice.

14. Faithful Son (Hebrews 3:6)
Jesus is a "faithful Son over God's house," highlighting His loyalty and leadership.

15. Source of Eternal Salvation (Hebrews 5:9)
Jesus is the "source of eternal salvation" for all who obey Him, emphasizing His role in granting eternal life.

16. Forerunner (Hebrews 6:20)
As the "forerunner," Jesus has entered the heavenly sanctuary ahead of believers, preparing the way.

17. King of Righteousness and Peace (Hebrews 7:2)
Jesus is likened to Melchizedek, the "king of righteousness" and "king of peace," symbolizing His just and peaceful reign.

18. Mediator of a New Covenant (Hebrews 8:6; 9:15)
Jesus is the "mediator of a better covenant," establishing a new relationship between God and humanity.

19. Perfect Sacrifice (Hebrews 9:14)
Jesus offered Himself "without blemish to God," fulfilling the requirements of a perfect sacrifice.

20. Author and Perfecter of Faith (Hebrews 12:2)
Jesus is the "author and perfecter of our faith," initiating and completing the journey of faith for believers.

21. Great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20)
As the "great Shepherd of the sheep," Jesus cares for and guides His followers.1. Prophecy of the Son as the Heir of All Things
- Prophecy: Psalm 2:7 - "You are My Son; today I have become Your Father."
- Fulfillment: Hebrews 1:5 - "For to which of the angels did God ever say: 'You are My Son; today I have become Your Father'?"

2. Prophecy of the Son's Eternal Throne
- Prophecy: Psalm 45:6-7 - "Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever, and justice is the scepter of Your kingdom."
- Fulfillment: Hebrews 1:8-9 - "But about the Son He says: 'Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever, and justice is the scepter of Your kingdom.'"

3. Prophecy of the Son's Role in Creation
- Prophecy: Psalm 102:25-27 - "In the beginning You laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands."
- Fulfillment: Hebrews 1:10-12 - "And: 'In the beginning, Lord, You laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands.'"

4. Prophecy of the Son's Priesthood in the Order of Melchizedek
- Prophecy: Psalm 110:4 - "The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind: 'You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.'"
- Fulfillment: Hebrews 5:6 - "And in another passage God says: 'You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.'"

5. Prophecy of the New Covenant
- Prophecy: Jeremiah 31:31-34 - "The days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah."
- Fulfillment: Hebrews 8:8-12 - "But when God found fault with the people, He said: 'The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah.'"

6. Prophecy of the Sacrifice of Christ
- Prophecy: Isaiah 53:5 - "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed."
- Fulfillment: Hebrews 9:28 - "So also Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await Him."

1. Jesus is Above the Angels  ( 1:1⁠–⁠2:18 )

a. The Supremacy of the Son  ( 1:1⁠–⁠14 )

b. Salvation Confirmed  ( 2:1⁠–⁠4 )

c. Jesus like His Brothers  ( 2:5⁠–⁠18 )

2. Jesus is Above Moses  ( 3:1⁠–⁠4:13 )

a. Jesus Our Apostle and High Priest  ( 3:1⁠–⁠6 )

b. Do Not Harden Your Hearts  ( 3:7⁠–⁠11 )

c. The Peril of Unbelief  ( 3:12⁠–⁠19 )

d. The Sabbath Rest  ( 4:1⁠–⁠13 )

3. Jesus As High Priest  ( 4:14⁠–⁠7:28 )

a. The Perfect High Priest  ( 4:14⁠–⁠5:10 )

b. Much to Say About This  ( 5:11⁠–⁠6:12 )

i. Milk and Solid Food  ( 5:11⁠–⁠14 )

ii. A Call to Maturity  ( 6:1⁠–⁠12 )

c. A Priest in the Order of Melchizedek  ( 6:13⁠–⁠7:28 )

i. God’s Unchangeable Promise  ( 6:13⁠–⁠20 )

ii. Melchizedek and Abraham  ( 7:1⁠–⁠10 )

iii. A Superior Priesthood  ( 7:11⁠–⁠28 )

4. The New Covenant  ( 8:1⁠–⁠9:28 )

a. Christ’s Eternal Priesthood  ( 8:1⁠–⁠5 )

b. The Terms of the New Covenant  ( 8:6⁠–⁠13 )

c. The Earthly Tabernacle  ( 9:1⁠–⁠10 )

d. Redemption through His Blood  ( 9:11⁠–⁠28 )

5. The Perfect Sacrifice  ( 10:1⁠–⁠39 )

a. Christ’s Perfect Sacrifice  ( 10:1⁠–⁠18 )

b. A Call to Persevere  ( 10:19⁠–⁠39 )

6. Follow Great Models of Faith  ( 11:1⁠–⁠13:25 )

a. Faith and Assurance  ( 11:1⁠–⁠3 )

b. The Greatest Men and Women of Faith  ( 11:4⁠–⁠40 )

i. Able, Enoch, and Noah  ( 11:4⁠–⁠7 )

ii. Abraham and Sarah  ( 11:8⁠–⁠19 )

iii. Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph  ( 11:20⁠–⁠22 )

iv. Moses  ( 11:23⁠–⁠29 )

v. Many Others  ( 11:30⁠–⁠40 )

c. The Practice of Faith  ( 12:1⁠–⁠13:25 )

i. A Call to Endurance  ( 12:1⁠–⁠3 )

ii. God Disciplines His Sons  ( 12:4⁠–⁠13 )

iii. A Call to Holiness  ( 12:14⁠–⁠17 )

iv. An Unshakable Kingdom  ( 12:18⁠–⁠29 )

v. Brotherly Love  ( 13:1⁠–⁠4 )

vi. Christ’s Unchanging Nature  ( 13:5⁠–⁠14 )

vii. Sacrifice, Obedience, and Prayer  ( 13:15⁠–⁠19 )

viii. Benediction and Farewell  ( 13:20⁠–⁠25 )