Hebrew, James & Jude

In this series, we’ll explore the New Testament books of Hebrews, James, and Jude. Although we know about the authors of James and Jude, we don’t know for sure who wrote the Book of Hebrews. Whoever he was knew his Greek, was well-schooled in the Old Testament scriptures, and had a sharp mind capable of ordering numerous details to produce a well-reasoned argument. He was also inspired by the Holy Spirit, which is why his book made its way into the Bible’s New Testament.

The Book of Hebrews takes us on a trek of mystery, wonder, and faith. Although we don’t know who wrote it for sure, Hebrews is a well-written letter, revealing that the author wanted Jewish believers to continue in the grace of Jesus Christ, rather than trying to escape persecution by bowing to the rites and rituals of the Jewish law.

As we’ve learned, some of the teaching in Hebrews is rather complicated, but the main takeaway is straightforward: Jesus Christ is superior – he’s better than any another prophets or priests, rules or rituals, that came before or since. With that in mind, here’s a great structure for reading the Book of Hebrews.

James was the leader of the church in Jerusalem during the middle of the 1st century. He was also known as the half-brother of Jesus and author of the book with his name on it. According to both the 1st century New Testament writings and the 2nd century church leaders, James was named an apostle and a bishop, and along the way, he got the title, “James the Just.”

The Book of James is a practical guide on Christian living. Rich with teaching, it covers numerous topics related to faith and works, trials, wisdom, controlling the tongue, partiality, and wealth. James opens chapter 1 with an encouragement for believers to consider trials as joy because they produce perseverance (steadfast determination) leading to maturity in faith. James also assures believers that if they lack wisdom, they should ask God who gives generously to all without reproach.

The last book of the New Testament, right before Revelation, is called Jude. The author is identified as Jude, a relative of Jesus and another skeptical family member who later gave his life to preaching the Gospel after witnessing the power of the resurrection. The Book of Jude is only one chapter long, intended to equip Christians for the untold challenges of living in what the author refers to as the “last times.” Jude encourages Christians to contend for the faith and warns them to watch out for fakes in the church.