Hermeneutical Approach in Hebrews

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INTRODUCTION The epistle to the Hebrews is, perhaps, the most theological book in the New Testament, and also one of the most debated books as far as authorship and recipients are concerned. The logical and philosophical presentation of the arguments makes the author a very skillful presenter who was “aware of and in dialogue with alternative world-views within his community”. His hermeneutical style leaves footprints for African Biblical Scholars to emulate in bringing the message of the Bible to their audience. The author’s major preoccupation was to appeal and exhort his audience, whose enthusiasm had died out due to persecution, some even afraid to join the public assembly, and some who had slipped out completely into irrevocable apostasy (Heb 6:4-6). The writer therefore chose familiar terminologies which were of paramount significance to the world-view of his audience to drive home his point. Some of these terms he employed include: the covenant, sacrifices, priesthood, and the cultic practices of Judaism. He tried to dialogue between Judaism and Christianity; emphasizing the superiority of Christianity over Judaism, using such terms as better with the covenant, once for all for the sacrifice of Christ, and better promises in Christianity than Judaism. This write-up would look at the following: * Background to the Hebrews * Priesthood Christology in Hebrews * Hermeneutical approach of the author * Lessons for African Biblical Scholars I. BACKGROUND TO THE HEBREWS Authorship Ever since early Christian times the writer of this epistle has remained mysteriously anonymous, but that has not ended the debate on the authorship. Numerous candidates have been proposed, including people like Paul, Luke, Barnabas, Jude, Apollos and Priscilla. Clement of Alexandria was of the view that it was written by Paul and translated into Greek by Luke.
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