The book of Hebrews is a litmus test of sorts. In the vernacular, “you either dig it or you don’t.”

Some readers relish its types and anti-types as it compares the priestly and sacrificial systems of tabernacle worship in the Old Testament with the priestly and sacrificial work of Jesus Christ. Other readers skip over the complicated mid-section and go for the inspirational parade of heroes in Chapter 11.

Some mine its rich King James trove of memorable phrases — “faith is the substance of things hoped for,” “great cloud of witnesses,” “angels unawares.” Others love the thunder of its warnings — “How shall we escape,” “fiery indignation.”

Still others, seeing a confusing mixture of topics and arcane references, just give up and look elsewhere.

Two new commentaries, written from different approaches and aimed at different audiences, share a common theme: Don’t give up. The book of Hebrews is a mysterious and wonderful masterpiece, full of intellectual challenge and soul-stirring encouragement. Its rewards are worth the effort.