To what extent does the New Covenant replace the Old? How should Jews regard their crucified Messiah? Learners discover answers to these and other important questions by studying the background, context, and content of the Epistle to the Hebrews. The course focuses on the key interpretive issues and theological contributions found in this rich, christocentric book. The goal of the course is to strengthen students’ confidence in the superiority of Jesus and the New Covenant, and to equip him/her to “encourage one another daily.”
Legacy CollectionThis course is part of a collection of courses taught by world-class evangelical professors from across the globe on a variety of topics. The lessons are presented on an intermediate to college or seminary level and provide a wealth of information for those who want to dig deeper into their faith. Select courses in the collection are from the Institute of Theological Studies (ITS), which was acquired by Our Daily Bread University.
Objectives
- Reach informed conclusions regarding the epistle’s authorship, original audience, and purpose.
- Describe the genre, method of theological argument, and main themes of the Epistle to the Hebrews.
- Discuss significant questions in the interpretation of the Epistle to the Hebrews, demonstrating acquaintance with alternative views and offering evidence and argumentation for the view that the student prefers.
- Glorify God for the superiority of Christ, the mediator of the new and eternal covenant.
- Approach God confidently in prayer through Christ our high priest.
- Respond to present trials with persistent faith and hope.
- Take initiative to encourage struggling fellow-Christians, with compassion and confidence.
- Rejoice in the superiority of new covenant worship, centered in the Son and the heavenly Jerusalem, versus the touchable “shadows” of old covenant worship.
- Explain and apply passages from Hebrews so as to make clear their meaning and relevance to late-twentieth century audiences.
- Replicate the hermeneutical method of Hebrews in interpreting other Old Testament texts.
- Fuller Theological Seminary, PhD
- Westminster Theological Seminary, MDiv and ThM
- Westmont College, BA