Who Were the Hebrews?

Paula K. Graves

2 years ago

Who were the Hebrews? Hebrews is another name for the Jews. It appears that this letter was written to Jewish Christians to encourage them in the faith. The Roman Empire sanctioned the Jewish religion but not Christianity. Thus, the government persecuted Christians. Also, the Jewish believer probably had unbelieving relatives who wanted them to return to the faith of their forefathers. Returning to Judaism would have been tempting for these persecuted believers.

We don’t know which church this letter was written to. There were many churches with large Jewish populations, such as Jerusalem, Rome, and Alexandria. Perhaps this letter circulated among several churches. We aren’t sure.

Who Was the Author of Hebrews?

The author of the letter to the Hebrews is unknown. But we can glean a few clues from the letter. Obviously, the author was very familiar with Hebrew Scripture; thirty-two Old Testament Scriptures are cited in the letter. The author also assumes that the readers know these Scriptures. The author also seems familiar with the Apostles and refers to Timothy. Hebrews 13:²³I want you to know that our brother Timothy has been released from jail. If he comes here soon, I will bring him with me to see you.[1]

The writing style of Hebrews is very different from the letter of Paul, and while Paul could be a possible author, scholars don’t think it is likely. It was probably another Apostle familiar with Paul, such as Barnabas, Silas, or Apollo. My personal opinion leans toward Pricilla. Pricilla and her husband, Aquila, were co-workers of Paul in Corinth and Ephesus (Acts 18). They were Jewish believers and teachers. It is difficult for women theologians today, but it would have been almost impossible in the first century. Thus, she wouldn’t have put her name to the letter.

Using the Old Testament to Point to Jesus

The author and the readers both knew the Hebrew Scriptures well. Many had memorized extensive parts of it. The writer used this common knowledge to point to Jesus and how He is greater than angels, Moses, and any priest. This was to encourage those suffering for the faith. For if the Jewish Scriptures point to Jesus as the Son of God, we should continue to follow Him.

This author shows us how important the Old Testament is to show who Jesus is. We can learn how to re-read this part of Scripture through the lens of Jesus and glean more from the Word of God. I urge you to sit and read the letter to the Hebrews for yourself. Check out the Old Testament scriptures cited for an even deeper understanding of who Jesus is.

Who were the Hebrews? To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-is-greater-than-angels

Who Was the Author of Hebrews?

Using the Old Testament to Point to Jesus

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