The writer of Hebrews is unknown but he clearly knew and loved those whom he addressed. They had been faithful to Christ in past times of suffering and persecution. There were however, signs of defection, and this letter was written to sound a warning against apostasy. Refuge could not be sought in the Old Testament economy, which was now, because of the new covenant, antiquated. (12:18-29) The writer concludes that there must be a willingness for believers to press on into spiritual maturity. Jesus Christ is the answer to all of man’s problems and, while God may bring trials into the lives of His children, they must learn that the life of faith is the plan of God for all believers.