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Can we agree that Paul was inspired to write many of the New Testament books? He was a prolific writer, even writing while in prison — these works are known to many Christians as the prison epistles. What’s more, I cannot think of a better way to use or redeem the time instead of languishing in jail. Paul had a clear picture of what a Christian’s struggle encompassed — he had a close relationship with God and was willing to use his profitable experiences to help others called into this way of life.
If you look more closely at the book of Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon, all of which were written by Paul, notice that these were placed consecutively and immediately precede the book of Hebrews. The abovementioned 13 books contain an introductory message whereby Paul announces himself in like manner so that we can be sure of his authorship as he has great purpose in writing to God’s people. Paul begins with his name and states that he is an apostle of Jesus Christ, His servant, and called by God into this service. There is nothing ambiguous about it. Paul could not be more clear as it is a consistently repeated message over and over again, even thirteen times, and then we come to Hebrews.
There is nothing remarkable about this except that the wisdom contained within these books is remarkable because the words are directly inspired by God. Words of wisdom through instruction, edification or encouragement, warning, comfort, mercy, longsuffering, prophecy, hope, faithfulness, humility, submission, inspiration, peace, challenge, kindness, insight, sacrifice, joy, self control, and above all...love. Paul’s message brought peace and unification to those it was designed to help and it cut through any nonsense that some were experiencing. Paul the apostle was a very powerful advocate for Jesus Christ.
Some, by no means few, say that they think Paul wrote the book of Hebrews. Why do they mention this? Is it a matter of perceived knowledge associated with pride? Hebrews does not begin with Paul’s customary introductory remarks. Furthermore, scripture contains clues as to whether Paul is the author, or not. Have you not heard it said that the Bible interprets the Bible — for which we should be incredibly thankful and grateful. Let us read from a curious scripture in 2 Thessalonians 3:17 which states “The salutation of Paul with my own hand, which is a sign in every epistle; so I write”. Do you think Paul may be telling us that when he writes he always includes his name at the beginning of his work? Seems most likely, does it not? Paul was particular, specific, and wrote with purpose. If he said he would place his name to his epistles, he did. His name is not placed in salutation to us in the book of Hebrews. We should believe Paul. If God did entrust Paul the Apostle, which of course He did, to write so voluminously throughout his eventful life, then even in the grave, he is to be believed. If Paul wrote Hebrews we would see his familiar greeting with his name attached. But we do not. The evidence is compelling.
We also know from the scripture in Galatians 1:11-12 where Paul categorically states he did not receive his instruction from any man but directly in revelation from Christ. This means that Hebrews 2:3 cannot refer to Paul thereby further supporting the claim that he could not be the author of Hebrews. Let us read Hebrews 2:3 “How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him”. Whoever wrote Hebrews clearly did not have first hand experience with God like Paul had but rather heard it from those who did, such as the apostles.
Even so, perhaps, even back then, there were fraudsters claiming works that were not their own, plagiarisers who were intent on spreading confusion? Is this why Paul made note of his style? After all, Satan wasted no time in his attempts to destroy Jesus Christ’s followers by any evil means he could bring about. At the conclusion of the matter it is not a topic to belabour in any way. It is not a foundational or salvational issue, but instead, one of those twigs that people sometimes find themselves climbing out onto. Be careful as twigs can snap — you may fall. We really must not say “I think Paul wrote…such and such” or any other thing when it is just speculation. This is how error can creep in to God’s church and scatter the flock through division. It may be small and seemingly insignificant to begin with, but then could easily take over to be a considerably larger and divisive issue. Furthermore, could this be perceived as adding to the Bible? That would be very dangerous territory, somewhere we really must not go, and to be avoided at all costs (Revelation 22:18-19). We are warned to remain humble and teachable, remove every vestige of pride, and listen to God’s words, not our own. This is what Paul, God’s servant tried to warn us about. Will you listen to him or let pride get in the way? Make the best choice, the right choice, the true choice to line up with Jesus Christ and his teachings and not man made fluff or padding that has the potential to deceive.
Does the matter of who wrote Hebrews affect your Christian walk? In the scheme of things it is not a big ticket item. We may be naturally curious of course. If you read the last paragraph from the author of Hebrews you will see that he is someone who refers to others as brethren and was hoping to see Timothy in the flesh after his confinement. It may well remain a mystery until Christ returns. Best leave it that way until we know for sure. After all, knowing who wrote Hebrews will not change the way we worship our Father. The answer, for now, to who wrote the book of Hebrews is — only God knows!