In the first two chapters of the epistle, the author of Hebrews compared Jesus and the angels. In chapter 3 he compares Jesus and Moses. The Jews revered Moses because of his close relationship with God. Moses was incredibly faithful-no one disputes that fact. However, with a illustration of servant (Moses in God’s house) and Son (Jesus over God’s house), the writer of Hebrews clearly demonstrates the superiority of Jesus.

 

Psalm 95:7-10 is a unique portion of Scripture and is filled with the sad report of Israel’s rebellion and apostasy in the wilderness. The author of Hebrews warns his readers not to fall into the trap of unbelief which leads to a falling away from the living God. The writer stresses the responsibility of the Christian community in warning the individual believer not to turn away from God but to continue to be strong in the faith. The author applies the words of Psalm 95:7-10 directly to his hearers; for him the message is a matter of eternal life or eternal death.

The Epistle to the Hebrews is characterized by teaching and pastoral admonition-the writer is a teacher and a pastor. As a spiritual overseer he constantly admonishes his readers to listen attentively and obediently to God’s Word. He shows a genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of the recipients of his letter.

One of those readers perhaps asked if Jesus, the divine Son of God, is unacquainted with human nature. The answer is given in the form of a lengthy quotation from Psalm 8. Jesus “was made a little lower than the angels” but now, because of his death, resurrection, and ascension, is “crowned with glory and honor.” Jesus fulfilled the words of Psalm 8 and through this fulfillment has obtained salvation for his people. No angel could have fulfilled the task that Jesus accomplished by “tast[ing] death for everyone.” He is one with his brothers because together they constitute the family of God. Jesus, the Son of God, is truly human and fully identifies with his brothers. Because of this identity, Jesus has “become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God.” He sets his people free from sin and stands with them in their times of trial and temptation. Jesus sympathetically and at the same time intimately understands the problems believers face.