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 AN ANCIENT SERMON? - The book of Hebrews has always presented
an enigma to those who analyze literary forms. Recent scholars now regard the book as an
early compilation of sermonettes-several sermons pasted together. Ancient sermons included
three things: an exampla (theological and scriptural proofs), a conclusion based on the
exempla, and an exhortation. [1] Our lesson forms part of one such sermon-2:5-13 are the
exempla; verses 14-18 offer a conclusion; and 3:1 forms an exhortation as well as a
transition into the next sermon.
HOW MAJESTIC IS YOUR NAME IN ALL THE EARTH - The opening paragraph
(1:1-4) is beautiful. The high christology that recurs through Hebrews is here described
by the use of seven clauses: (1) heir of all things; (2) the agency through which God
created all things; (3) the radiant light of God’s glory; (4) the exact
representation of God (as a coin reflects precisely the die); (5) the one who sustains all
creation; (6) the one who made purification for sins; (7) the one who sits at God’s
right hand.
WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT - It is evident, after only two chapters,
that the writer of Hebrews is a pastor, writing a word of encouragement. For example, in
2:5-18, Christ is presented to the readers as a pioneer, the one who goes before them not
only showing the way but also creating a path. Christ is also our champion, defeating the
devil and setting us free from the fear of death. In addition, Christ is our high priest,
offering a sacrifice of atonement for our sins. And finally, Christ is our representative
before God, our advocate, intercessor for all who are being put to the test. [2]
 What
might have been the general thinking about angels and prophets at the time of this writing
that would prompt the writer to raise these two groups in contrast to Jesus?
What danger did these people (Christian recipients) face? (2:2-3 seems to hint at it as
well as other places in Hebrews.) [3]
 Revisit
some of the ways in the past that God communicated to / with humanity. [4]
Shift to the text-1:1-4 especially; the writer insists that Jesus is the fullest
revelation of God’s heart to earth. Why is the revelation so far beyond anything
previously communicated?
Share expositionally the reasons that this ancient pastor offers the Hebrews
community-based on the seven clauses mentioned in the commentary section.
Closure: God created people for a loving relationship with God’s Self. Sin
shatters that possibility. Nothing can restore it. So God did all that was needed in
Christ.
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