Digital Logos Edition
The New Testament’s letter “To the Hebrews” presents one of Scripture’s most influential interpretations of Jesus as God’s Son and exalted Messiah, who is both the essential revelation of a covenant-keeping God and the faithful agent of God’s eternal salvation. Yet Hebrews is routinely neglected in its study and proclamation in part because of its exclusion from either of the two canonical collections of apostolic letters, Pauline and Catholic. But context matters. This commentary argues that the context that matters most for a close reading and careful practice of Hebrews as Scripture is the one that surrounds the letter within the final edition of the New Testament canon. Rather than a rival of Paul’s crucified Christ or someone other than the exemplary Jesus of the Catholic Epistles, the priestly Christ Jesus of Hebrews, both divine and yet “made like his human sisters and brothers in every respect” (2:17), is received as their canonical complement to provide a more complete inspired interpretation of the church’s Lord and Savior than is possible by one or another biblical witness.
If the thought of studying the book of Hebrews makes you anxious, as it does me, then fear no more. Having pioneered the way through years of study of Hebrews in the classroom, Dr. Wall proves to be a wise and capable guide. His commentary will help readers better understand the specifics of Hebrews’ Christology, as well as how the book makes sense within the New Testament. What I always appreciate about Dr. Wall’s work is his commitment to the theological and moral formation of God’s people. His thoughtful study of Hebrews will bring us all closer to entering into God’s rest.
—The Rev. Dr. Nancy R. Bowen, Professor Emeritus of Old Testament, Earlham School of Religion
Bringing his deep learning of antiquity, rhetorical techniques, and the significance of the relationship between the church’s canonical Scriptures, Wall’s commentary on Hebrews offers a careful yet accessible analysis of the theological and literary artistry of the Epistle to the Hebrews. This book is perfectly suited for all teachers and students of the Bible.
—Joshua W. Jipp, Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
A collection of immense wisdom gathered in one volume, Rob Wall’s Reading Hebrews commentary focuses readers’ attention on Hebrews as a book by and for the church. He does not retread all the well-worn paths in Hebrews scholarship but presents fresh perspectives from noticing its place in the canon and in the history of Christian witness. Through clear organization, this volume keeps attention on the big picture, allowing readers to see the simple beauty in Hebrews’ often detailed argument. Respectful of both the rhetoric and the theology of the sermon, Wall helps us to see the book as the work of a gifted pastor, who, if we follow his example, will help us to preach this word of exhortation well.
—Amy Peeler, Kenneth T. Wessner Chair of Biblical Studies, Professor of New Testament, Wheaton College