FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired but it is the key to following the original author's intent which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS: Heb_3:1 to Heb_4:13
A. This section deals with Jesus' superiority over the twin leaders of the Mosaic Covenant, Moses and Aaron, who were brothers and Levites. This leads us into the practical discussion of the Melchizedek priesthood of Heb_4:14 to Heb_7:28.
B. This section is a rabbinical play on two concepts: (1) "the house of God," in Heb_3:1-6 (cf. Num_12:7-8; 2 Samuel 7) and (2) the "rest" in Heb_3:7 to Heb_4:13 (cf. Psa_95:7-11).
C. The argument develops as follows.
1. Moses was part of God's house/household, but Jesus was the builder of the house/household
2. Moses is a servant in the house, while Jesus is a family member
3. Moses failed to bring in God's rest, while Jesus did not fail
D. The theological thrust of the literary unit is a warning to be obedient and faithful. Jesus was obedient and faithful, but the Israelites were not. The Mosaic covenant had consequences for disobedience which were severe. How much more dire are the consequences of rejecting or violating the new covenant (cf. Heb_2:1-4)?
E. This section is typological. It views the NT as the new, spiritual exodus!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.