Leviticus of the New Testament
Hebrews parallels Leviticus in the Old Testament by focusing on the priesthood, sacrifices, and worship. However, while Leviticus emphasizes the temporary and symbolic nature of animal sacrifices, Hebrews reveals how these are fulfilled in Jesus, the ultimate High Priest and once-for-all sacrifice.
- Christ as Central: Hebrews focuses on Christ’s supremacy and role in God’s redemptive plan.
- Encouragement in Faith: It provides comfort and guidance for believers struggling with doubt, persecution, or the temptation to return to old ways.
- A Book of Better Things: The recurring theme is the "better" nature of Christ's covenant, sacrifice, promises, and priesthood compared to the Old Testament.
- Guarantor of a Better Covenant (7:22): Jesus ensures the new covenant’s promises are fulfilled.
- Captain of Salvation (2:10): He leads humanity to salvation through His suffering and resurrection.
- The Apostle and High Priest (3:1): Jesus is both the messenger (apostle) of God’s truth and the mediator (high priest) between God and humanity.
- Our Brother (2:11–12): Christ identifies with humanity, calling believers His brothers and sisters.
- Author and Finisher of Faith (12:2): Jesus begins and perfects the faith of believers.
- The Advocate: As our eternal high priest, Jesus intercedes for us before God.
- Past: The sacrificial system of the Old Testament foreshadowed Christ's ultimate sacrifice.
- Present: Believers now have direct access to God through Christ, enabling a life of worship and service.
- Future: The promise of eternal rest and an unshakable kingdom awaits those who persevere in faith.
Hebrews contains several warnings for believers:
- Against Drifting: Neglecting the gospel leads to spiritual peril (2:1–4).
- Against Unbelief: Failing to trust God results in missing His rest (3:12–19).
- Against Falling Away: Apostasy has grave consequences (6:4–8).
- Against Refusing God: Rejecting His grace leaves no alternative for salvation (10:26–31).
- Sacrifice in the Old Testament: The Levitical sacrifices were repetitive and insufficient to fully cleanse sin.
- Worship in the New Testament: Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice establishes a new way of worship, centered on faith, gratitude, and direct access to God (10:19–25).
Hebrews is a profound message of God’s love, offering "better things" through Christ. It calls believers to focus on Jesus—their H...
