Who wrote the Book of Hebrews?

Authorship of Hebrews: An Exhaustive Topical Entry

1. Introduction to the Question of Authorship

The Book of Hebrews stands as one of the most theologically rich works in the New Testament. Though it powerfully testifies of Christ’s supremacy, priesthood, and covenantal role, its authorship has been debated for centuries. Unlike many other New Testament letters, Hebrews does not begin with a standard greeting identifying the writer. This has led to multiple theories regarding who penned it.

2. Early Church Traditions

From the earliest centuries of church history, witnesses offered various suggestions:

• In the Eastern Church, the widespread tradition favored the Apostle Paul as the author. Church fathers like Clement of Alexandria and Origen recognized Pauline influence, though Origen famously concluded, “Who truly wrote the epistle is known to God alone” (Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History, 6.25.14).

• In the Western Church, there was more uncertainty. Some leaders, such as Tertullian, viewed Hebrews as possibly authored by Barnabas, while others were hesitant to accept Pauline authorship due to differences in style and vocabulary when compared with Paul’s undisputed letters.

Despite these differences in acceptance, the epistle’s status as authoritative Scripture became universally recognized. The widely accepted canonicity of Hebrews testifies to the consistent belief that it stands in harmony with the inspired writings and theological witness of the New Testament.

3. Reasons Scholars Attributed Hebrews to Paul

Hebrews contains certain elements that might point to a Pauline connection:

1. Close Relationship with Timothy: Hebrews 13:23 mentions Timothy, a known companion of Paul. This implies some connection to Pauline circles.

2. Theological Themes: Many of Hebrews’ core emphases (Christ’s supremacy, Old Testament fulfillment, faith in God’s promises) echo the broader Pauline theology. For instance, the emphasis on faith as saving trust in what is yet unseen (Hebrews 11) resonates with the approach Paul takes in Romans and Galatians.

3. Early Citation and Attribution: The oldest surviving manuscripts and quotations (from church fathers in the East) often place Hebrews within the Pauline corpus, even if with some note of caution in the Western tradition.

4. Counterarguments to Pauline Authorship

Some hold that Hebrews might not be directly from Paul’s hand:

1. Literary and Stylistic Differences: The refined Greek style of Hebrews contrasts with Paul’s more direct style. The epistle also lacks Paul’s common personal signature or greeting.

2. Unique Themes and Language: Hebrews uses terms and images for Christ’s role (especially emphasizing the high priesthood, Hebrews 4:14–16) that are less developed in Paul’s other letters.

3. Intentional or Anonymous Authorship: Some suggest that the author intentionally omitted a name, possibly to reach an audience hesitant to receive any letter bearing Paul’s signature, especially among communities strongly tied to Jewish temple traditions.

5. Alternative Proposals

Over the centuries, various individuals have been proposed:

1. Barnabas: A Levite from Cyprus (Acts 4:36), intimately familiar with Jewish sacrificial practices. Tertullian, in the third century (De Pudicitia 20), appeared to support Barnabas. His nickname “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36) harmonizes with the exhortational nature of Hebrews.

2. Apollos: Originally proposed by Martin Luther. Acts 18:24 describes Apollos as “mighty in the Scriptures” (cf. Acts 18:24), and his eloquence might align with Hebrews’ literary beauty. However, there is no explicit ancient tradition connecting Apollos to Hebrews.

3. Luke or Silas: Some have argued that the intricate Greek usage and devotion to detail could match Luke’s style, while others see traces of Silas’s ministry association with Paul. Both remain minority opinions with limited patristic backing.

6. Internal Clues and Unity of Scripture

Regardless of authorship details, Hebrews remains consistent with the rest of Scripture. Internal evidences align with recognized truths:

• Emphasis on the Old Testament as God’s revelation pointing to Christ (Hebrews 1:1–2).

• Exaltation of Christ’s resurrection and ongoing priestly ministry (Hebrews 7:23–25).

• Call to perseverance in the faith anchored in verifiable historical events (Hebrews 10:32–34).

One of the most notable features is the unifying thread of Christ’s supremacy, from His role in creation to His eternal priesthood on behalf of believers (Hebrews 1:2; 4:14). Such central Christology, reflected elsewhere in New Testament writings, supports Hebrews’ place within the canonical framework. As Scripture testifies, “All Scripture is God-breathed” (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16), and Hebrews exemplifies the same divine consistency.

7. Archeological, Manuscript, and Historical Weight

From the vantage point of manuscript evidence, early papyri and translations include Hebrews with the Pauline corpus, though sometimes placed after Romans or as part of general epistles. This underscores:

• The uniform respect it commanded in early Christian communities.

• Its inclusion in major codices like Sinaiticus and Vaticanus, confirming its early acceptance.

Beyond ecclesiastical tradition, no ancient authority solidly refutes its apostolic or near-apostolic origin. On the contrary, archaeological findings that validate historical details in the New Testament (such as place names, customs, and real historical figures) strengthen overall confidence that Hebrews likewise reflects genuine theological and historical truth. As an epistle, it fits neatly into the first-century milieu, complete with familiarity of Jewish sacrificial references, a temple still functioning at or near the time, and a community of believers facing growing challenges.

8. The Purposes of Hebrews and the Question of Authorship

The question of authorship, important as it is, does not overshadow the epistle’s message: the supremacy of Christ, His once-for-all sacrifice, and His mediatorial role. Throughout Christian history, expositors have consistently highlighted Hebrews’ extraordinary power, regardless of who physically wrote it.

The content emphasizes Christ’s resurrected life and the commission to encourage believers:

• “In these last days He has spoken to us by His Son…” (Hebrews 1:2).

• “Let us hold firmly to the confession of our hope without wavering” (Hebrews 10:23).

Such affirmations built up persecuted communities in the first century—and they continue to equip believers in every generation.

9. Practical Conclusion and Summary

While various theories exist, the conservative tradition historically honored Paul as a strong candidate. Other views propose gifted leaders like Barnabas, Apollos, or another authoritative figure. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit’s inspiration binds Hebrews with the full counsel of Scripture, demonstrating the continuity of God’s redemptive plan.

Most importantly, the identity of the human writer pales in comparison to the substance of Hebrews itself: that Christ is the fulfillment of all old covenant promises, the final and perfect High Priest, and the resurrected Son who grants salvation. Hence, the message remains unshakable, internalizing the gospel that transforms and encourages believers: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance…and let us run with endurance the race set out for us” (Hebrews 12:1).

This timeless exhortation carries on with or without definitive answers regarding the human author’s name. Hebrews continues to anchor faith in the risen Lord, whose message and ministry it so powerfully proclaims.