When Would the Heaven and Earth Pass Away?
It is argued by many that the heavens and earth of Hebrews 1:10-12, which speaks of perishing and changing like a garment refer to the natural heaven and earth. In other words, some believe in “global” eschatological destruction of the universe. Is this what the Hebrews’ writer has in mind in the context and verse of not only Hebrews one, but of the entire epistle.
Westerners often read the Bible as though it popped out of a genie with no context, culture or history. I have to admit, I did this too, until I learned better. The Bible came from people with a real history, culture and language. Just as we see cultures today, we would not seek to interpret Latino culture in the context of European or African. A lot of things simply would not make sense.
It’s the same with with the scriptures. To speak of heaven and earth to the ancient Jewish mind did not conjure up ideas of literal stars falling from the sky and the earth being a global ball of fire. It mean something totally different.
Through an exegesis of the text, I demonstrate that it is impossible to be consistent while interpreting the language of Hebrews 1:10-12 in a woodenly literal fashion.
Heaven and Earth Will Pass Away, Matt. 24:29, 35
Some symbolism of the passing of heaven and earth, as demonstrated by Matthew 24:29 and 35, clearly refer to the Jewish age passing away at the destruction of the temple. The time statements found in verse 14, and 34 make it clear that Christ is responding to the disciples’ question on when would “these things” (related to the temple destruction) take place.
So the question is, does that same theme run throughout the New Testament and particularly in Hebrews. The video offers some insights that could help unlock the meaning. Be sure to leave questions and comments below.
