The Hebrew Christians of apostolic-era Palestine were tempted to fall back into Jewish ways because of persecution and a lack of understanding of the true uniqueness and significance of Christ. The writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews exhorts them to stand fast, finish the race, and attain the promises awaiting the faithful. About the Orthodox Bible Study Companion Series: This commentary series was written for the average layperson. Working from a literal translation of the original Greek, the commentary examines the text section by section, explaining its meaning in everyday language. Written from an Orthodox and patristic perspective, it maintains a balance between the devotional and the exegetical, feeding both the heart and the mind.