Hebrews | A Commentary on the New Testament

More than thirty years had passed since Jesus died on the cross, rose from the dead, and left behind an empty tomb. More than three decades had also passed since the Holy Spirit fell on those gathered in the Upper Room, fulfilling the Promise of the Father. Yet by A.D. 63–64, persecution against Christians was intensifying, and the fires of Pentecost seemed to be fading. With the destruction of the Jerusalem temple only a few years away, many Hebrew Christians faced growing hardship and the temptation to return to the familiar rituals and sacrifices of the Old Covenant. In the midst of this pressure, the writer of Hebrews urged them not to drift away or abandon their faith, but to persevere, grow in maturity, and hold fast to their confession of Christ.

This commentary is the fruit of more than fifty years of Bible study, private devotion, and preaching by Frank and Parris Bailey. Within these pages are biblical insights from their years as pastors, personal reflections, and practical exhortations to help readers apply the truths of Hebrews to their lives. Over time, churches and individuals can slip from the fire of God's presence into what Paul called “a form of godliness but denying the power of God” (II Tim. 3:5). This commentary is an appeal to this generation to return to the power of Pentecost and the supernatural life we have been given in the presence of the Lord. May these pages encourage you to endure faithfully, grow in the Word, and continually fix your eyes on Jesus—the author and finisher of our faith.