Comments on the commentary on Hebrews written by Adiamseged Weldemariam
January 2021
Our brother Adiamseged said in his book, “Christ is the greatest high priest who was given from God to save the sinner and to provide grace that will help the saints during their earthly sojourn; He is the all sufficient sacrifice as well as the priest who offers the sacrifice. Therefore, believers should remain steadfast in Him.” The emphasis, depth, scope, and diligence with which Adamesque surveyed can attract the attention of both true believers as well as bible students.
It is by God’s great plan of salvation, accomplished by Jesus Christ that death was dealt with replaced by life. The daily victory of life and ministry for those who have understood this truth and for believers is founded upon the living Christ who is always the same. Believers’ hope is steadfast because it is firmly planted on Christ who has triumphed over death. Every believer should live trusting on this divine salvation. Having presented these truths in his commentary, Adiamseged says, “The Hebrew Christians seem to have lost this kind of trust”. He also shows us how dangerous it is to be shaken from this foundation of life and ministry. The Hebrew Christians were falling into this kind of trouble. That is why it was written to them, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). To be shaken from this strong foundation of salvation is dangerous and the major theme of the book written by brother Adiamseged dwells on this important topic.
Relating his message to the conditions of present-day Christianity in which backsliding is common, Adiamseged warns us that we should keep ourselves from this danger. “Instead of standing firm in our trust on the Lord, we tend to give up our fellowship with Him under the pressure of multiple problems and because some people have offended us. But the Lord Jesus has nothing to do with any of these things. The Lord is always the same; therefore let us stand firm in Him” (page 519). This commentary is a timeless work that can speak to people of all cultures and languages and is full of truth from the scriptures. Therefore I call upon all believers to read it, study it, and be edified and strengthened by it.
In our country where there is a severe shortage of materials helpful for Christian education, the publication of a book like this commentary is a huge contribution. I have a strong feeling that this commentary will remain a valuable resource for a long time for Ethiopian Christians because of the following reasons:
First reason: The explanations of the chapters which are presented in relation to the totality of the message in Hebrews are organized in such a way that shows the plan of salvation along with the steps in the practical life of believers. To my understanding, the major teaching of this book can be summarized as, “God’s plan to save us was anciently hinted at in the religious rites of the Old Testament, expectantly awaited by the patriarchs, competently fulfilled in the life and works of Jesus Christ, and it can be influential in the life and walk of Christians today. There is no better alternative to salvation than this one; therefore let us hold fast to this one.” This is the pattern of the Christian life approved by the Books of Hebrews as well as the entire bible.
Second reason: The book is written with simple words and in clear language. Believers who have a degree in a foreign language and have gone to a theology school may have the opportunity to read many commentaries that are rich in explanations and arguments. The majority of Ethiopian ministers and community of believers have not been fortunate enough to get ahold of commentaries written in their native language. The publication of such extensive commentary on the Book of Hebrews will greatly contribute to alleviating the problem and will also serve as a rich and wonderful resource for personal and group bible study, for the preparation of sermons and teachings.
Third reason: The third reason is the way to book is structured. It opens to an explanation of every chapter with a brief introduction. After that, it goes into extensive explanations. Subsequently, it offers direct explanations of clear points, and detailed discussions on controversial topics, doctrinal issues, and ideas related to practical life and ministry. The book also shows that the writer has made efforts to dig into the Greek roots of some keywords and present them with their definitions as well as explanations. Lots of practically applicable lessons are offered in the book which makes it a valuable tool for bible teachers as well as students.