Hebrews is one of the more enigmatic books of the bible as much of what we know about it is in debate. The identity of the author, while traditionally viewed as Pauline, is contested, the audience to whom the epistle is addressed is also unknown, and we don’t even know exactly where this epistle was written. These issues have led some to question whether or not this letter should have been canonized. Fortunately by God’s divine hand it was canonized in spite of the numerous mysteries surrounding it. This small devotional tackles the challenging book of Hebrews and utilizes the English Standard Version (ESV) Bible in its analytical approach to getting to the core of God’s truth.
I really like the format that this devotional approaches Hebrews with. As with all good devotionals, it begins with the text. It is very easy to read and even breaks down quotations in a manner that allows the reader to truly grasp the conversation as it is unfolding in the book. Next, it has a portion that is entitled “Go Deeper” in which it takes on the text of Hebrews within the context of the larger bible and demonstrates the ways in which the author is relaying biblical and theological principles. Then there is an application where Kroll unpacks the text as the author of Hebrews laid out in the selected passage. Next, there is an “Express It” section where the reader is to use the knowledge gained from the text, application, and ‘Go Deeper’ section and draw the implications to their life. Finally there is a “Consider It” section that further expounds upon the “Express It” by asking questions and providing an area in which the reader can work out his or her thoughts on the subject matter and internalize the teachings of the book.
I love the book of Hebrews. I was anxious to dig into this devotional because this book is one that I have spent a considerable amount of time researching. This little devotional does a pretty good job of getting to some of the important teachings that are held within the book. It is good for the person who would like to achieve a better understanding of the text without devoting a ton of time to researching it. It does however leave a lot out, but it is after all just a devotional. It serves its purpose well, but for the individual really looking for a thorough understanding of the Hebrews, there is no substitute for digging through good commentaries.
Reviewed by Ben Black
