The Argument:

For as much as divers, both of the Greek writers and Latin's witness, that
the writer of this Epistle for just causes would not have his name known, it
were curiosity of our part to labor much therein. For seeing the Spirit of God
is the author thereof, it diminisheth nothing the authority, although we
know not with what pen he wrote it. Whether it were Paul (as it is not like)
or Luke, or Barnabas, or Clement, or some other, his chief purpose is to
persuade unto the Hebrews (whereby he principally meaneth them that abode
at Jerusalem, and under them all the rest of the Jews) that Christ Jesus was
not only the redeemer, but also that at his coming all ceremonies must have
an end; for as much as his doctrine was the conclusion of all the prophecies,
and therefore not only Moses was inferior to him, but also the Angels; for
they all were servants, and he the Lord, but so Lord, that he hath also taken
our flesh, and is made our brother to assure us of our salvation through
himself; for he is that eternal Priest, whereof all the Levitical Priests were
but shadows, and therefore at his coming they ought to cease, and all
sacrifices for sin to be abolished, as he proveth from the seventh chapter verse
eleven, unto the twelfth chapter verse eighteen. (Hebrews 7:11-12:18) Also
he was that Prophet of whom all the Prophets in time past witnessed, as is
declared from the twelfth chapter, verse eighteen, to the twenty fifth verse of
the same chapter; (Hebrews 12:18-25) yea, and is the King to whom all
things are subject, as appeareth from verse twenty five, to the beginning of
the last chapter. (Hebrews 12:25-13:1) Wherefore according to the examples
of the old fathers we must constantly believe in him, that being sanctified by
his justice, taught by his wisdom, and governed by his power, we may
steadfastly, and courageously persevere even to the end in hope of that joy
that is set before our eyes, occupying ourselves in Christian exercises that we
may both be thankful to God, and dutiful to our neighbor.

Presented By: The Master's Table