Hebrews 1 - 6

You probably noticed that there is no greeting or salutation at the beginning of the book of Hebrews which would tell you who wrote it. Many authors have been suggested including Paul (probably the favorite), Barnabas, Luke, Silas and on and on, but no one knows. Actually, it probably doesn't matter who wrote it; what really matters is what is in it.

After stating that in times past, God spoke through the prophets, in the final days, he has spoke through his Son. There may have been some dispute about whether Jesus was on a level with the angels, since the author goes into great detail about why the Son is "far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names."

We do gain considerable insight into the role of angels: "only servants -- spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation."

Wasn't it great to read "So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters." We read that Jesus "became flesh and blood because only as a human being could he die and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death." And Jesus didn't come to help angels, he came so "he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people."

After showing how Jesus is greater than the angels, he then shows how Jesus is greater than Moses. Jesus is "in charge of God's entire house. And we are God's house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ."

Hebrews 4:12-13 should give us all pause: "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable."

And who would not be encouraged by his words to "come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most."

After showing why Christ is better than the angels and better than Moses, the author then compares Jesus to the high priest. Jesus is "a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek."

Did you notice the author called his audience "spiritually dull and don't seem to listen?" He compares them to babies still needing milk when they should be mature enough for solid food.

Tomorrow, we'll read Hebrews 7 - 10.

Until next time…