Who wrote the book of Hebrews? I don't know. However, since many other people have stated their opinions, I'll give mine as well.This may seem simplistic, but here we go:
As I read Hebrews, the themes seem Pauline. The big pictures remind me of Romans, Galatians, etc.
However, the language seems fairly complex, like Luke would write. The wording reminds me somewhat of Luke-Acts.
My guess is this: Paul preached a series of sermons to a largely Jewish-Christian audience. Luke, sitting nearby, took notes on Paul's teachings. Later, Luke went back to his notes and wrote out in full what Paul said. So the themes are Pauline, but the language is more Lukan.
I freely admit that I'm no Greek scholar. Much of my conclusion is based on what I have heard from others. However, it seems to make sense in light of the data.
I'm glad we don't have to worry about the inspiration of Hebrews even though we are uncertain of the author.
4 comments:
Eric,
I'm comfortable with Paul.
John,
I've been told that the linguistic structure of Hebrews has great similarities to Luke and Acts. If Paul actually penned the book, I wonder why this is the case. It seems that Luke at least had some influence. What do you think about this?
Eric,
Whilst saying that I'm comfortable with Paul, I am not certain enough to be adamant about the matter, just comfortable.
It seems that many of the early church fathers were happy with the idea. John Owen also.Apparently Clement of Rome knew Paul believing he wrote the letter, as did John Chrysostom.
It's not an issue for me, so I can accept the possibility that Luke was the scribe who wrote Paul's words, as you suggest.
John,
You make a good point about the early church fathers. We ignore them too much. Owen is also certainly worth considering.
The book is clearly inspired - on that we can all easily agree. And what a wonderful book it is!
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