The structure of Hebrews

In case anyone is interested, this is the structural analysis of Hebrews from which I’m working in this series; it’s not one I’ve seen anywhere else, it’s my own reading. I think the warnings are the key to understanding the structure of this book, which is mostly composed of triadic subsections, each of which makes an argument, applies it, and then warns the reader of the consequences of ignoring the message.

  • 1:1-14: Argument: Christ is superior to the angels

    • 2:1: Application: Take the gospel message seriously

      • 2:2-4: Warning

  • 2:5-18: Argument: Christ has been given authority over everything as high priest

    • 3:1-6: Application: Christ is superior to Moses and the Law

      • 3:7-19: Warning

  • 4:1-10: Argument: Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promise of rest

    • 4:11: Application: Press forward to enter his rest

      • 4:12-13: Warning

  • 4:14-15: Argument: Christ is a unique high priest

    • 4:16-5:10: Application: We can approach God with confidence

      • 5:11-6:8: Warning

  • 6:9-20: Reassurance: God is faithful

  • 7:1-10:18: Argument: Christ is a better high priest of a better covenant

    • 10:19-25: Application: Live the faith fearlessly

      • 10:26-31: Warning

  • 10:32-11:40: Argument: Faith in Christ is worth keeping

    • 12:1-24: Application: The fruit of endurance is worth the trial

      • 12:25-29: Warning

  • 13:1-19: Closing applications: Life in the people of God

  • 13:20-25: Blessing and farewell

Posted in Sermons and tagged .

Leave a Reply