Journal: Journal of Ministry and Theology
Volume: JMAT 26:2 (Fall 2022)
Article: Hebrews 1:1–4 As The Interpretive Guide For The Book Of Hebrews
Author: Eric McConnell

JMAT 26:2 (Fall 2022) p. 53

Hebrews 1:1–4 As The Interpretive Guide For The Book Of Hebrews

Eric McConnell1

Abstract: The exordium in the Book of Hebrews (1:1–4) stands as one of the most exceptional examples of Koine Greek in the entire New Testament. A careful study of these four verses is warranted, not only because of their brilliant literary construction, but because the exordium serves as an interpretive guide for the rest of the book. Seven statements about the Son are presented in the exordium, and these Son statements preview the major themes discussed throughout Hebrews. This article utilizes discourse analysis of the Greek text to evaluate the construction of the exordium. Alongside the discourse analysis, this article demonstrates the connection between the themes found in the exordium and the main arguments found throughout the rest of the book.

Keywords: Slavery, Mosaic Law, Redemptive Movement Hermeneutic, Anti-slavery, Gentiles

*****

Introduction

The Book of Hebrews opens with an exclamation mark! This vivid opening, also known as the exordium (1:1–4), arrests the attention of the reader with lofty statements that create a resounding picture of the excellence of the Son. In these magnificently weighty verses, the Son is presented as the pinnacle of God’s communication with mankind and the completion of God’s redemptive plan; he is presented as the Creator and the Redeemer, and his superiority over even the angels is declared. The vivid exaltation of Christ that is presented in these opening four verses

JMAT 26:2 (Fall 2022) p. 54

serves as a springboard for rich theological truths that continue to be unpacked throughout the entire book. Hebrews presents the Son as the fulfillment of all Messianic hope, and it demonstrates the superiority of the Son above all things.

Hebrews is profound in its doctrinal truth, and it is compelling in its practical call to faithfulness to God. It is written as a homily, as expressed by the author in 13:22, and the theological arguments of the author are masterfully intertwined with words of exhortation that are presented throughout the letter. Bruce describes the theme and practicality of Hebrews in a succinct but profound manner: “... this is the book which establishes the finality of the gospel by asserting the supremacy of Christ…. More than any other New Testament book it deals with the ministry which our Lord is accomplishing on his people’s behalf now. In a day of shaking foundations, it speak...