THE FOUNDATION IN THE PRIMITIVE KERYGMA

Hebrews is notable for its highly skilled composition and powerful rhetorical effect. We have seen that recognition of the rhetorical character of Hebrews is fundamental for a true understanding of the letter. It has been carefully composed to persuade the readers to abandon their wish to return to the Jewish community in order to heal their troubled consciences, and to renew their confidence that healing is to be found in the gospel and its expression in Christian life.

The theology of Hebrews is the argument used to achieve this aim. Hebrews is not an abstract theological treatise, but thoroughly practical in intention. It is a mistake to look for a leading idea as the key to the whole (for instance Nairne suggested that Hebrews enunciates what he called the sacramental principle). Nor will it do to regard Hebrews as a ‘midrash’ on Psalm 110 (Buchanan), which suggests a doubtful use of ‘midrash’ (which properly denotes the exposition of the biblical text) and produces a wrong assessment of the place of Psalm 110 in the argument.

Similarly it is unwise to subordinate the theology to the artistic structure. Hebrews is beautifully balanced, but that is not for the sake of giving aesthetic pleasure, but to make the point most effectively.