Letters of Paul: Hebrews 1

This last epistle is often attributed to Paul, but some scholars disagree on authorship. I've included it in our study of Paul's letters, as the theology is consistent with Paul's. It appears that if not actually penned by Paul, it was written by someone in his close circle, perhaps Luke, perhaps Barnabas, or perhaps Paul co-wrote Hebrews with another member of the apostolic group. Some have speculated that this was a sermon given by Paul and later transcribed by Luke. In any case, the book of Hebrews was written either just before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, or sometime between 80 AD and 90 AD. It is believed that Paul was executed around 66 to 67 AD.

The Nature of the Son

1 Long ago God spoke to our ancestors by the prophets at different times and in different ways. 2 In these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son. God has appointed him heir of all things and made the universe through him. 3 The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact expression of his nature, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. 4 So he became superior to the angels, just as the name he inherited is more excellent than theirs.

The Son Superior to Angels

5 For to which of the angels did he ever say,

You are my Son;

today I have become your Father,[Ps 2:7]

or again,

I will be his Father,

and he will be my Son?[2Sm 7:14; 1Ch 17:13]

6 Again, when he brings his firstborn into the world, he says,

And let all God’s angels worship him.[Dt 32:43 LXX; Ps 97:7]

7 And about the angels he says:

He makes his angels winds,

and his servants a fiery flame,[Ps 104:4]

8 but to the Son:

Your throne, God,

is forever and ever,

and the scepter of your kingdom

is a scepter of justice.

9 You have loved righteousness

and hated lawlessness;

this is why God, your God,

has anointed you

with the oil of joy

beyond your companions.[Ps 45:6–7]

10 And:

In the beginning, Lord,

you established the earth,

and the heavens are the works of your hands;

11 they will perish, but you remain.

They will all wear out like clothing;

12 you will roll them up like a cloak,

and they will be changed like clothing.

But you are the same,

and your years will never end.[Ps 102:25–27]

13 Now to which of the angels has he ever said:

Sit at my right hand

until I make your enemies your footstool?[Ps 110:1]

14 Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve those who are going to inherit salvation?