A gracEmail subscriber asks if we know why the New Testament book of Hebrews was written.
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Yes we do, although we dont know exactly to whom, when, where, or precisely what was going on then and there among those people. But we do know that for a variety of reasons the original recipients of Hebrews were worn out, disheartened, tempted, and seemingly about ready to walk away from their faith. The book hints at some possible causes, including persecution, passing of time, being misfits in their society and culture, the appeal of sin, and so on. It could not possibly be more relevant and up-to-date.
How does the author of Hebrews respond to disheartened and worn-out Christians facing all these discouraging circumstances? This is something worth our noticing and remembering. To revive his readers spirits and to renew their commitment, the unknown author re-tells the Story the story of the Son of God who became a man, to live and die as our representative on earth, who is now representing us as our High Priest in heaven. Hebrews is thoroughly focused on Jesus! Its message is always contemporary. We can never go wrong by focusing on the Savior himself. I am very pleased that several reviewers have described Hebrews: Ancient Encouragement for Believers Today in those same terms.
It might come as a surprise to many Christians today, but there is no book of the Bible more full of Jesus, more attuned to daily life in the 21st century, and more relevant as a word of encouragement than the book of Hebrews. Whch is why I am confident that Hebrews: Ancient Encouragement for Believers Today is one of the most significant books the Lord has ever given me to write. (That assignment began with a silent prayer about 6:00 a.m. one morning as I walked down a cobblestone street in Antigua, Guatemala–a story I will share very soon.) For full details about Hebrews: Ancient Encouragement for Believers Today, go to: edwardfudge.com/