In the earliest Greek manuscripts of the book of Hebrews, it begins with "to the Hebrews." This indicates that the author of Hebrews is writing to Jewish Christians. Because temple activities are mentioned, Hebrews may be intended for those Believers who were in or around Jerusalem.

The author of Hebrews desires to tell his audience more about Jesus Christ, but he is stymied:

Concerning him we have much to say, and it is difficult to explain, since you have become poor listeners. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the actual words of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unacquainted with the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to distinguish between good and evil. (Heb 5:11-14, NASB)

1. List your observations of the text that you observe of these "infant" Believers. Discuss your observations.

2. Can you explain this figure of speech "milk?" What does it represent?

3. Can you explain the benefits of "solid food?" How does it train you to distinguish between good and evil?

4. Why did the author of Hebrews expect all Believers to be teachers by now? What do you observe of these verses?

The Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do, since Abraham will certainly become a great and mighty nation, and in him all the nations of the earth will be blessed? For I have chosen him, so that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice, so that the Lord may bring upon Abraham what He has spoken about him." (Gen 18:17-19, NASB)

"'Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel." (Ex 19:5-6, NASB)