Starting a Study in the Book of Hebrews

​This week at Blainsport, we begin a study in the Book of Hebrews. Anthony T. Selvaggio, the pastor of the College Hill Reformed Presbyterian Church in Beaver Falls, PA, suggests that the Book of Hebrews is not a book or letter, but rather, it is an expository sermon. Further, it would be more appropriate to refer to the author of the Book of Hebrews as a preacher.
 
Interestingly, Hebrews is the only recorded sermon in the New Testament preached to an established congregation. The audience was a second-generation group of believers (see Hebrews 2:1–4) who were at risk of turning away from their faith in Jesus. Unlike the sermons in the Book of Acts, Hebrews is not an evangelistic sermon; instead it is a message to those who already believe.
 
Hebrews contains some profound theological teaching and offers solemn warnings about the dangers of falling away from the faith. For modern readers like us, learning about the superiority and extraordinary role of Christ in salvation history, his atoning work on the cross, and his glorious resurrection and ascension remain abundantly true. The book also challenges Christians in danger of compromise. As we live in a multi-faith, tolerant culture, the Book of Hebrews calls us to a determined faith in Christ alone.
 
I hope this study challenges us to step away from a comfortable religion that asks nothing of us to a genuinely committed faith that moves us closer to the Savior—and in the process, brings others to salvation through Christ Jesus.
 
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday!