May 20, 2007

Hebrews - Introduction/The Superiority of Christ

Steve Lane

A. Introduction

As soon as you start, you run into a problem...
Some think Paul... or Barnabas... or Apollos...

William Tyndale's translation (1534)

Dated around 68 A.D.

The deity and superiority of Christ

Hellenistic Jews - quotes from the Septuagint
One interpretation. Many applications.
Three groups in this church the author is writing to:

1) True believers - in danger of apathy
2) Intellectually convinced, but have not made a full commitment. These are in danger of...
3) Those attracted to the Gospel, but may not be truly convinced about Jesus.

Brief overview:

B. The Superiority of Christ

Hebrews 1: 1 - 2 Progressive revelation moving truth by truth towards the Truth
Hebrews 1: 3 He is far superior, He is God the Son
John 1: 1 - 3, 14
Colossians 1: 15 - 20
Jesus was the agent of creation, and He is the exact representation of God

Expressions in the Word of the Tri-unity of God
Galatians 4: 8 Same essence or nature

"We distinguish the Persons but do not divide the Substance."

Hebrews 1: 4 - 5
The excellence of Christ above all created things from eternity past... who can measure up?

Quotes from the Old Testament:
Psalm 2: 7
2 Samuel 7: 14

The nature of the relationship and the unity of Jesus to the Father even more clearly expresses His complete uniqueness
Philippians 2: 5 - 11

C.
Conclusion

In eternity we will ponder the depth and shear amazement of ...
We have this slim window of opportunity that is only in this life - faith
Let's run to Him often and drink deeply
Hebrews 4: 14 - 16, 6: 19 - 20a