Hebrews 2:1-4
2:1-4: Pay Attention to Jesus!
v.1 - We must pay the most careful attention therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.
–What does the word “therefore” refer to in this verse?
–What does it mean to pay the most careful attention? Remember this letter was written to Christians!
–The Greek word for “pay the most careful attention” is prosechein which is a present active verb which means it is ongoing–continues to happen, not a one time occurrence.
–The key to not drifting away is intentional focus. The natural tendency is to drift away. It will happen without discipline. Love the Lord God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Be transformed by the renewing of your minds.
–What does it mean to drift away?
–What can cause drifting?
–In what ways can you be disciplined in order to not drift away?
–The ancient Greek word for drift away (pararyomen) gives the idea “to slip”. It was used for an arrow slipping from the quiver, for snow slipping off a landscape, or for food slipping down the windpipe to cause choking. It happens easily. One doesn’t have to do anything to drift away. Departure from the faith usually comes from slow drifting, not a sudden departure.
–The Philippian jailer asked Paul what he must do to be saved and Paul was able to give him an answer. The answer to the question “What must I do to be lost” is nothing.
v.2-4 - For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard Him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to His will.
–Acts 7:53 tells us (in Stephen’s speech) that the law was given through angels. This verse is speaking of the Mosaic law and the law had punishment for violation of it. It had to be taken seriously.
–Do we take the laws of our land seriously?
–Do we take God’s law seriously?
–If there is punishment for disobeying any law then how can we possibly escape if we ignore the salvation provided to us by God through the sacrifice of His Son? Essentially this is saying: If ignoring God's earlier revelation had serious consequences, how much more serious is it to ignore God's ultimate revelation in His Son?
–Why do you think the author used the word ignore rather than reject?
–What is the difference? Are consequences different?
–Do you ever think of the enormity of what Jesus did for us? God Himself dying?
–Do you think the idea of receiving salvation makes it easier to forget that we have been rescued from death?
–The salvation was announced by God, confirmed by those who were with Jesus, and reinforced by miracles done by God.
–What are some ways that these things were done?
–How do we know this salvation is true?
Intentionally focus on Jesus this week. Set aside time every day to reflect on what He has done for you.