The epistle to the Hebrews presents both Christological and soteriological notion regarding Jesus in context of being a high priest and a once for all his high marked sacrifice. In doing so, Hebrews stays mainly true to Second Temple Judaism’s cult customs. However, the concept of Jesus as a sacrifice, in particular, is theologically original and novel. The purpose is to examine these dynamic events and to analyses how they drove early Christianity to leave the temple cult. However, within the New Testament, the letter (or work) to the Hebrews proves a distinct voice. It is the work of a famous theologian who is a pioneer in his field. “One of the most theologically inventive arguments of the New Testament,” according to Hebrews 9. It also throws light on the understanding of Jesus’ death. In other words, the major elements of Second Temple Judaism’s theological tradition are re-configured in light of trust in Jesus Christ. The outcome is a strikingly creative understanding of the nature and significance of Jesus’ death. Such an incident figuratively employs themes and rituals of Jewish temple worship to argue for Jesus’ uniqueness as a Savior of humanity. Hence, this contributed to an early Christian revolution in ancient religious thought and practice i.e., the notion of sacrifice renunciation. This paper will elaborate multiple OT reference listing regarding multiple objects and notions along with the summary of these findings in context to the book of Hebrews.
Central themes in the Bible include the list of various features associated with God. In other words, his acts of creation, revealed provision, prevailed judgment, forgiveness embedded with deliverance, and various quoted promises, all can be included in this list. In light of God’s various features such as his nature, full righteousness, purified faithfulness, zealous mercy, and above board love, the Bible considers various happenings in the circle of humanity. Mankind’s disobedience, isolation, and perversion are the key themes in this aspect. The gracious actions belonging to God may include man’s coverings from exposing to others, forgiveness, acceptance, and the blessing of respect. In addition He has bestowed the humanity with of grace, emergence of life, and the final fulfilment of hope on the part of human. For example the following saying clarifies the said list of themes in context of Abraham:
He said, “I promise you that I will bless you and give you many descendants” (14).
Moreover, in the Old Testament, there are descriptions which are embedded with multiple rules, regulations and instructions (Torah, or Pentateuch). Similarly, Hebrews demonstrates about various anecdotes about several categories of people like prophets, renowned priests, several kings, and their wives etc., (Former Prophets). For example, a love story (Ruth) is added as a narrative in the text. The story relates to a woman who have intentions to plays a deadly game (Esther). In addition there is also a story about a well-wisher and preacher who makes too much money (Jonah). Additionally, several proverbs include a collection of knowledge, especially related to epigrams and prudential. In this context, different philosophic visions of existence are narrated. These visions are pessimistic but poised (Ecclesiastes). In the Psalms, there is first-class poetry, devotional poetry, and sensual poetry, and in the Song of Songs, there is erotic poetry.
As far as the summary regarding these finding is concerned, Hebrews serves as a link between the Old and New Testaments. Despite the fact that both covenants are diametrically opposed, many Christians approach God through Old Testament law rather than New Testament trust. The entire book revolves around Jesus and how He is the assurance of a new and better covenant. Every Christian should be aware of this.
It demonstrates Christ Jesus’ supremacy in a clear and convincing manner. It presents a beautiful image of how, as a result of His astonishing work relating to the cross, He is superior to all the created angels. Jesus is the happy blessing of God, and he was sent to reveal God’s genuine essence to us. We can try to understand the entirety of God’s nature and features through comprehending what Jesus and He says. In addition, the significance of Christ in salvation is also discussed. Jesus was briefly humbled and became human form so that he may experience death for all. It was only natural that the author of redemption be Jesus, through whom everything exists. He became a part of humanity in order to kill the one who wields the power of death by His death. This is something we must pay particular attention to so that we do not overlook such a huge salvation.
Furthermore, Jesus is obedient high marked and high leveled priest, who eternally reigns over God’s universe according to His orders and will. It shows and testify His dominance over prophets like Moses and the laws. A chapter of book also serves as a cautionary instruction in the form of story. We must daily encourage one another and persevere in faith till the end. As a result, through trust in Christ, true Sabbath rest is available to people. Throughout the Old Testament, God has promised the people. More, as God has selected and chosen Jesus as High Priest, he became the source of believe and hope for others. Various ideas also serve as multiple instructions about sticking to truth and keep away from bad deeds. In this aspect, falling away makes it impossible to return to repentance and ultimately, it becomes source of public shame for Christ. However, those amongst us who stay with Christ, they prove better and get various benefits as a result of such salvation. We can make progress in such a way to hold hope by passing through the specific curtain that our beloved Christ has provided.
Furthermore, it also compares Jesus to Melchizedek, a priest without a lineage who lived for all eternity in this world. Melchizedek blessed the Levitical priesthood by paying Abraham respect and tithes. Jesus is a priest for all eternity in this way, like Melchizedek. He does not belong the Levitical tribe in the long run. There must be transformation in the legislation whenever the priesthood changes. Jesus, in this aspect, has proven His priesthood. As a result, He is able to entirely save those who approach God through Him. Because He is constantly present to intercede for them. Additionally, it demonstrates that Jesus is a bridge for a better covenant founded on the basis of Better Promises. Not in an earthly tabernacle, but in the celestial one at God’s right side, Jesus is ministering (which was a copy and shadow of heavenly things). Our sins will be forgiven and forgotten because of Jesus’ promise. The Old Covenant is now obsolete because of the New Covenant.
In other words, we can say that Hebrew demonstrates that Old Testament rules could not perfect the worshipper. Because it primarily concerned with food, drink, washings, and several body rules. When Christ appeared tie the world, He entered the holy tabernacle and shed His own blood on the mercy seat. Christ would appear at the last phase of time to replace all the sins via His sacrifice.
References
Andreasen, M. L. (2014). The book of Hebrews. TEACH Services, Inc..
