Who wrote the Book of Hebrews? / Who was the author of Hebrews? | GotQuestions.org

The author of the Book of Hebrews is debated among many. In this video, Pastor Nelson answers your question: Who wrote the Book of Hebrews? / Who was the author of Hebrews?

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[gotquestions]

Spring was in the air... and in Pr. Nelson's hair! Hopfully that little white flower petal that somehow blew into his hair won't be too distracting.

[preoccupied]

It is so helpful to remind us that it is God himself, through the Holy Spirit, who is the author of scripture.

[Shaolinz]

One if my favorite books in the Bible. I'll just say Paul wrote it.

[maximogomez]

Anytime Paul entered a new town, his first stop was always, without fail, the Hebrew house of worship. He had a great love for his own people and wished that he could curse himself in order that they might be saved. Finally, he was a Pharisee, fully capable of writing so eloquently about the topics in Hebrews.

[maximogomez]

In Hebrews 10:34, the writer uses the phrase, "...compassion in my bonds..." Which is another indication of authorship by Paul.

[steverichards]

Thank you for your insights. BTW another great shirt!

[charlesheller]

Pricilla wrote the letter to the Hebrews.

[lukewagner]

Hebrews 10:32-34 KJVS
But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; [33] Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used. [34] For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.

I think Apostle Paul wrote the book of Hebrews for a couple reasons. The following verses reminds the Jews how Paul/Saul persecuted the church.
“And for to the bonds of me” is how the beginning of verse 34 reads in a Greek Interlinear online. And Paul was extensively trained in the law of Moses, Acts 22:3, which would give him the background to write Hebrews as it is very much concerned with temple sacrifice of the day of atonement.

[scottmollette]

I lean towards Barnabas, Paul’s disciple, friend, and because he learned from Paul.

[reggie]

Paul seems the likeliest author. But being that it is not clearly stated in the address or the closing then I would be comfortable leaving it as a disputable matter and not get too tied up in knots over it.

[jmorrison]

Silas is traditionally assumed to be the same as the Silvanus mentioned in four epistles. Some translations, including the New International Version, call him "Silas" in the epistles. Paul, Silas, and Timothy are listed as co-authors of the two New Testament letters to the Thessalonians, though the authorship is disputed. The Second Epistle to the Corinthians mentions Silas as having preached with Paul and Timothy to the church in Corinth (1:19), and the First Epistle of Peter describes Silas as a "faithful brother" (5:12).

[amitchellboy]

Paul never could have quoted from Masoretic texts because they were recreated 1000 years after his death. He quoted the Septuagint which had been around for 300 years in his existence

[perceive]

It’s certainly reasonable to conclude Paul wrote the book of Hebrews. Many of the thoughts of Hebrews are similar to those found in Paul’s writings: A few examples = #1 Hebrews 1:3 The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” Colossians 1:15 – 17 The Son is the image of the invisible God. . . . For in him, all things were created . . . and in him, all things hold together.” #2 Hebrews 8:6 But in fact, the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one since the new covenant is established on better promises.” 2 Corinthians 3:6 He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant — not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life #3 Hebrews 10:14 For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.” Romans 5:9; 12:1 Since we have now been justified by his blood”; “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” ) The soteriology of Hebrews is quite consistent with Paul’s own teaching. For instance, the statement in Hebrews 10:14 that those who have been “made perfect” are in the process of being “made holy” sounds very much like Paul’s teaching on justification (e.g., Rom 3:21 – 5:9) and sanctification (e.g., Rom. 8:1 – 17). Moreover, both Paul and the author of Hebrews thought of Abraham as the spiritual father of Christians in similar ways. Exegesis is never absent in scripture, the thread of truth is always present and maintained by its writers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit 😎

[ccchhhrrriiisss]

Hebrews is an interesting book in that it contains elements seemingly found in other New Testament writings. I've kind of reached an "educated guess" for who I believe was the author. However, I think that the interesting points kind of paint an interesting picture and set of clues:
1.) It begins with words reminiscent of John's gospel.
2.) It contains a benediction similar to Paul and Peter.
3.) It contains a writing style that seems to be more "educated Greek" than any of the 12 Apostles or Peter.
4.) The book contains "we" and "us" -- only used elsewhere in the New Testament by Luke in Acts or implied in Paul's benedictions.

Clues:
1.) The author uses a "us" when indicating that he was taught by "those who heard" what was declared by the Lord (Hebrews 2:3). This seems to eliminate the original twelve apostles and any of those other disciples who were there when Jesus walked among them. So, this seemingly eliminates any of the earliest believers such as the twelve plus others like Matthias and the brothers of Jesus. Early church leaders (such as Hippolytus) even made a list of the 70 (or 72) disciples who walked with the Lord. It includes names such as Barnabas, Mark, Stephen, Luke, Silas and others. However, we don't know the veracity of this list. Moreover, Paul asserted his apostleship and mentioned his conversion in Acts and elsewhere. He literally SAW and HEARD the Lord on the road to Damascus. Yet, the author of Hebrews seems to indicate that his salvation came after it was proclaimed by "those who heard" the salvation that the Lord had proclaimed. This is possible evidence against Paul's authorship.

2.) The author seems to be Jewish -- with a deep understanding of the Law and the Prophets and with a strong aptitude regarding priestly duties. This could suggest that he was a Levite (such as Barnabas -- likely older than a "young man named Saul" in Acts 7:58). However, I think that it is enough to indicate that he is a Jewish believer.

3.) He mentions Timothy as having been "released" (probably from prison). The author does not boast of Timothy. Nor does the author refer to Timothy as "his son" in the faith. This obviously eliminates Timothy. However, this isn't a characteristic of Paul in writing to anyone.

4.) The author mentions Timothy traveling with him if he "comes soon." This is something that Paul indicated in his epistles. However, although Timothy traveled to/with Paul, he also traveled to/with others.

5.) Because it mentions Timothy having been "released" (Hebrews 13:23), we can guess a time period. It is possible that Timothy has been "released" from a work or period of service elsewhere. However, it seems more likely that this term refers to release from captivity (as it has been used in that way previously but never used regarding the end of a work or period of Christian service). Of the times in the New Testament that this word is used, it only refers to "release" from prison/captivity, release from the Law of Moses or the release from a marriage. There are no other mentions of Timothy having been in prison in any of Paul's epistles -- including his final epistle written shortly before his death (2 Timothy). In fact, in 2 Timothy, Paul is urging Timothy to go to Rome. This raises the question of whether this was written AFTER the death of Paul.

6.) The Book of Hebrews mentions two great themes -- explaining Jesus's high priesthood and sacrifice using evidence from the Old Testament (including before the Law or even God's covenant with Abraham) and the need for patient perseverance during persecution (even if you are not delivered from that persecution and face death). This implies someone who is familiar with the Old Covenant and how Jesus "appears" in it (including how the Messiah would suffer). Moreover, it suggests a time frame in which persecution was spreading in Italy.

7.) The author sends a benediction seemingly from Italy (and not Rome). Paul always stated Rome (having never once been recorded as using "Italy" in any of his epistles or in Acts). Apart from the writer of Hebrews, only Luke referenced "Italy" (three times) but primarily in reference to travel. One mention is of Priscilla and Aquilla having left "Italy" having been commanded to leave Rome (with all Jews) by Emperor Claudius (Acts 18:2). So, we have evidence of Italy as outside of Rome but that the edict caused some to leave Italy for Greece. This indicates that the author was not in Rome but elsewhere in the Italian peninsula. This is important for reasons I'll mention later. Still, it possible narrows the list to New Testament believers who had stayed (or lived) in Italy.

8.) While it uses "we" and "us" in the book, it ultimately closes with an "I" (Hebrews 11:32; 13:23). This indicates one author and/or scribe.

9.) The author is male. In Hebrews 11:32, the Greek pronoun is masculine. This would eliminate someone like Priscilla (wife of Aquila). It doesn't necessarily eliminate Aquila though.

10.) The writing structure, style and vocabulary is VERY different from Paul's typical epistles -- even if it shares some themes found in a few of his epistles. Paul boasted that he wasn't eloquent. Yet, the structure of Hebrews is very eloquent and sophisticated. In fact, whereas Luke is well-written as a deeply detailed account, it differs in structure even from Luke's writing in his Gospel or Acts. This suggests someone other than Paul.

11.) The author of Hebrews quotes the Septuagint rather than the Hebrew text. The Septuagint was quoted elsewhere in the New Testament; however, Paul -- especially when reasoning with Jews -- used the Hebrew texts. As the Septuagint was written as a directive of Ptolemy II Philadelphus, it possibly suggests an individual from Egypt or Alexandria or Greek-speaking Jews in Greek provinces of the Roman Empire.

12.) Peter was an "apostle to the Jews" just as Paul was an "apostle to the Gentiles." Peter wrote two epistles. In 2nd Peter, he mentions that Paul also wrote to "you" regarding the patience of the Lord (an underlying theme in Hebrews). It is assumed that 2nd Peter was written from Rome at the very end of his life -- likely months or up to a few years before Paul. Since most regard Hebrews as having been written between 60-70 AD, it fits that timeline (but so do all of Paul's epistles with the exception of the last two).

[bruinranger]

I’m with Dr. Kruger on this one, Luke seems most likely. Paul makes no sense due to how the author says he received the faith.

[curtischristensen]

Paul mentions super fine apostles (1 Cor 11:5) which indicates to me that there were some among them who assumed roles of leadership unworthily yet were likely well educated and well spoken. I would be cautious to assume Hebrews is completely accurate especially if it's statements are not previously stated by a know authority. Paul also warns of inaccurate messages sent as though from them (2 Th 2:2). Maintain faith in God but be cautious of the words of men.

[elmerarts]

Thought sola scriptura good enough to tell us the truth. So the authoritative early church dicided it to be part of the christian canon

[buukkreider]

The Rest for The People of God - Hebrews

In Deuteronomy 12:8-12 Moses Explained about The Rest

8 Ye shall not do after all the things that we do here this day, every man whatsoever is right in his own eyes.

9 For ye are not as yet come to the rest and to the inheritance, which the LORD your God giveth you.

10 But when ye go over Jordan, and dwell in the land which the LORD your God giveth you to inherit, and when he giveth you rest from all your enemies round about, so that ye dwell in safety;

11 Then there shall be a place which the LORD your God shall choose to cause his name to dwell there; thither shall ye bring all that I command you; your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, your tithes, and the heave offering of your hand, and all your choice vows which ye vow unto the LORD:

12 And ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God, ye, and your sons, and your daughters, and your menservants, and your maidservants, and the Levite that is within your gates; forasmuch as he hath no part nor inheritance with you.


This rest was promised to The Children of Israel when they enter the Promised Land. Joshua brought them into the land of Canaan which was the Promised Land. It was to be a land of REST for the Hebrews, the Children of Israel.

In the time of Joshua and Judges, the Children of Israel failed in taking their promised land - no one said it would be easy - and they suffered accordingly. This rest was not achieved: not then nor currently.

David confirmed this when he wrote the 95th Psalm...


Psalm 95:7-11 David Confirmed the Rest was Not Achieved

7 For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,

8 Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

9 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work.

10 Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways:

11 Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.


This REST has not been attained. The Apostle mentions this in the Book he wrote to The Hebrews, especially in chapters 3 and 4 even though Christian Scholars say that Christians have a REST in CHRIST - whether true or not, the Apostle was not talking about that: he was talking to The Hebrews, the Children of Israel.

The Hebrew Christians would not have to worry about this because they already have believed in Yeshua as The Messiah - but once The Church is raptured, that's when those Hebrews will have to take note and understand.

The epistles are for The Church mainly, but not exclusively - a point hard to grasp by many Christian Theologians and Scholars - but the 3KEY really could help any hard-seeking individual about The Truth.

The Lord Jesus also mentioned that he was Lord of The Sabbath - and The Sabbath speaks of the Seventh Day, not one day in seven - the Sabbath never changed to Sunday... never!

From Adam to Messiah is about 4000 years or 4 Days; from the death and resurrection of The Messiah is now about 2000 years or two days. This Messianic Kingdom AKA Millennial will be The Seventh Day: and Jesus of Nazareth will be fulfilling Isaiah 9:6, 7 and the rest of Isaiah 61:1, 2 before entering the Messianic Kingdom. Much more, but I will stop here. Those that want to know more, please respond and ask me. I hope to answer more of those questions.


Hebrews 3:7-19 The Apostle warned The Hebrews Applying to Them

7 Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,

8 Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

9 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.

10 Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.

11 So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)

12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

16 For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses.

17 But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?

18 And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?

19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.


The Apostle is addressing the Hebrews which included the believers in The Messiah, but more important - those that will be left behind AFTER the Rapture of The Church.

Also Chapter 4:1-11 The Fear

1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.

2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

3 For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

4 For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.

5 And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.

6 Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief:

7 Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

8 For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.

9 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.

10 For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.

11 Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.


This has NOTHING to do with GENTILES and THE CHURCH, but to the Hebrews. This is that New Covenant promised them by God. As I mentioned previously, The New Covenant is with Israel prophesied by Jeremiah and Ezekiel. This s nothing to do with GENTILES, except Jewish Proselytes at that future time.

During the Messianic Kingdom (Millennial) that will be the SEVENTH, the SABBATH. When The Lord Jesus mentioned to the Judaeans, they weren't happy...

John 5:15-18 The Working

15 The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole.

16 And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.

17 But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.

18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

In Genesis 2 it says God rested on The Seventh Day. Yes, and yet Jesus of Nazareth said 'My Father has been and continues to work - and he also works. Of course, he was accused of blasphemy.

Well on the SEVENTH DAY, THE SABBATH - that is when Jesus of Nazareth will be addressed as: The Mighty God and The Everlasting Father - at that time, The Father will REST. There is much more - for those that want to know, please respond. Thank you.

[RossLougheed]

"God only knows." Right? But I wouldn't be surprised if it was Barnabas.

[ronmortimer]

Paul, arguably the last apostle appointed by God/Jesus Christ, was never taught by any apostle. He was taught by Jesus Christ personally after the Lord's ascension. In this he was unique amongst the other apostles. It's possible the Book of Hebrews was written by more than one human author, an amalgam of Christian revelation and wisdom to the Hebrews if you will. But as stated the ultimate inspiration, guidance, and authorisation is the Holy Spirit - that's the most important part.