EBTC Hebrews

Thomas R. Schreiner clarifies Hebrew’s complex argument by keeping a sustained focus on its logical flow. He interprets Hebrews in light of its prominent structures of promise and fulfillment, eschatology, typology, and the relationship between heaven and earth. Schreiner probes the letter’s unique theological contributions, such as its presentation of Jesus’ divinity and humanity, his priesthood and sacrifice, the new covenant, warnings and exhortations, and the reward for those who persevere in Christ.

The Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary (EBTC) series locates each biblical book within redemptive history and illuminates its unique theological contributions. All EBTC volumes feature informed exegetical treatment of the biblical book and thorough discussion of its most important theological themes in relation to the canon; all in a style that is useful and accessible to students of Scripture.

About the Author

Thomas R. Schreiner is an American Reformed Baptist New Testament scholar. He is the James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He previously taught at Bethel University and Azusa Pacific University.

Schreiner writes his commentary in a way that presents the book almost like a sermon. This makes this commentary an easy read and it allows the reader to dive further into the Word so they better understand Hebrews. This commentary stands out as an impressive scholarly work that provides an insightful examination of Hebrews. Through the course of this commentary, Schreiner delivers a resource for both scholars and new believers to use to dive further into the Word.

“The words of Jesus on the cross, “It is finished!” (John 19:30), capture the theology of Hebrews.”

Throughout this commentary, Schreiner leads the reader through Hebrews with skill and care. Carefully of the fact that his audience might be young and not understand deep theology, Schreiner breaks down complex ideas into simple theology that is easy for the reader to understand. He demonstrates a clear and deep understanding of the Greek text and provides clear explanations of the historical context and theological implications of Hebrews. By walking the reader through this, it allows the reader to gain a deeper and more accurate understanding of the interpterion of the text.

“Jesus lived a truly human life, knowning human sufferinf and temptation. He didn’t live a privilaged existence separated from the anguish of temptation and the sorrows that blight human existence. He learned obedince in the midst of his suffergs and temptations.”

Schreiner navigates the difficult topic of the unknown author of Hebrews with careful ease while reminding the reader that canonicity is important to the Christian faith. He navigates this topic with ease while focusing more on the theme of this book. Some of the themes that were explored were the promise-fulfillment, the already-but-not-yet, and partial orientation. The part that I enjoyed most was Schreiner talking about how Hebrews is not only a call to assurance but it is also a warning.

“From one angle Hebrews can be read as a call to assurance. The warnings and admonitions are also given to the reader will be covinces they are on the right path, that they are truly clean before God by the virtue of what Christ has done. The warnings aren’t meant to cast doubts about the readers assurance but to strengthen and confirm it. The author doesn’t want them to doubt whether they are Christians but to be encourages to keep living as Christians.”

Schreiner’s Commentary on Hebrews pays attention to the structure and theological insights that make it a valuable aid for anyone to use when diving into the depths of Hebrews. While it might have some shortcomings that I did not realize, it is a guide that will benefit scholars and new believers alike.