Though it is unknown for certain who wrote the book of Hebrews, it was originally assumed to have been written by the Apostle Paul. Though that cannot be said with certainty, what is certain is that this book was viewed as authoritative from very early in Christian history.

This epistle a was originally written to Jerusalem based Jewish Christians who were overwhelmed by persecution. Many had, and even more would die at the hands of their enemies. Some, in the midst of that persecution, wavered-and were tempted to let go of their "confession" or "hope," meaning they were tempted to leave their Christian faith (because they were persecuted for it). The author of the epistle encourages them to not give up, but to remember and trust that the One who has promised them eternal life (if they will "endure to the end"-Matthew 24:13) is "reliable" in what He says or promises. In other words, you can trust God. All hell may break loose, but God is there, and if He has promised you salvation, He will keep His word. His words, commandments, and promises are "sure" and cannot fail-or He would cease to be God!

In this modern time, the persecutions we endure are different from those of early Christianity. Nevertheless, the counsel of Hebrews 10:23 is as applicable today as it was in antiquity. There will be things that will happen in our lives or in our world that may entice us to give up on Christ, our Church, or faith in God. However, just as God promised the ancients that he was with them in their trials and sufferings, He is with us-and wants us, like them, to not give up on Him; to trust that He will support us in our trials and suffering, making it possible for us to both endure and to come out better on the "other side" of whatever we're called to endure.

God has made great promises to those who believe, and Christ is the fulfilment of those promises. Anything that encourages us to turn from Him is not only not of God, but it cannot in any way help us, save us, or relieve us of the seemingly unrelenting battles we endure in this mortal experience. Thus, the author of the epistle invites us to trust God, not give into the pressures of this life, and know that great things are coming to those that believe.