63 Chapters and 521 Pages 8 1/2 by 11 Comb Bound
 
Understanding the historical backdrop of the Judaism at the time of Christ is critical to understanding the epistle to the Hebrews.  From the time of the prophecy of Malachi to the time recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, four-hundred years had elapsed.  God was silent during those four-hundred years.  For four-hundred years, God did not speak through a prophet to Israel. 
 
          Many changes had taken place during that time.  Not the least of which was the fact that the religion of Israel had evolved into what came to be known as Judaism.  By the time of Christ’s coming, the vast majority of Judaism was apostate.  The Law and the religious sacrifices of Israel had been perverted into something God never intended.  
 
          Judaism was composed of three internal sects; the Pharisees, Sadducees and the Herodeans.  The Pharisees and Sadducees were religious sects and were in control of the Temple and religious orders.  They were apostate.  The Herodeans were more of a political sect, than a religious one.