Hebrews was apparently first read by a church(es) comprised largely of Jews. Jews who had become Christians. Jews who were thinking about becoming Christians. Jews who were resisting becoming Christians! (Many churches today still have a similar blend of attenders.) This church was coming under fire from the state. Emperor Nero was setting his sights on Christians, and dialing in the range! A barrage of persecution was right around the corner. Many Jewish Christians felt it might be safer to just drop the "Christian" part. Maybe being "just a Jew" again wasn't so bad! After all, Christians and Jews shared a common heritage, and besides, the Emperor wasn't targeting Jews (yet). So Hebrews was written to close the door on the church's exit! But what was his strategy? How did he hope to keep the people in their pews and away from the back door? You can sum up Hebrew's strategy in two words: new and better. Perhaps no single verse in Hebrews summarizes it better than 8:6 – "Now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises." Let's review our timeless letter and remind ourselves of four truths that Hebrews still teaches every church in every age. This morning: 1.) The superiority of Jesus. 7:11-8:2 2.) The strength of the gospel. 10:11-18 Next Lord's Day (10/20): 3.) The severity of drifting. 6:1-8 4.) The sweetness of assurance. 6:9-12
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