AM Scripture Reading: Hebrews 2.1-4

Brent T. Willey

PAYING CLOSER ATTENTION

Hebrews 2.1

Introduction:

1. The author of Hebrews is giving a clear warning!

2. We must not forget the context of this epistle: Many Jewish Christians were defecting from the faith; some even returning to Judaism.

3. The Book of Hebrews has great relevance today!

I. “FOR THIS REASON…”

1. The expression, Dia\ tou=to[diá toúto], connects vs. 1-4 with the whole argument of chapter one (UBS Translator).

   1. The kjv, nkj, asv-01, rsv & esv all translate the phrase as “therefore” – the simple conclusion expressing cause.

   2. “For this reason” is much more expressive and is as accurate as “therefore.”

2. The next expression, “we must pay much closer attention,” dei= perissote/rw$ prose/xein [deí perissoterōs proséchein], is emphatic: “give the more earnest heed” (nkj).
3. “For this reason we must pay much closer attention…”  Why?

   1. Because God has spoken through His Son!

   (Heb. 1.1-2; cf., John 6.68; 12.48)

   2. Because Christ made the world & all things!

   (Heb. 1.2; cf., John 1.1-3; Col. 1.16-17)

   3. Because Christ is God’s express image!

   (Heb. 1.3; cf., Col. 1.15; 2.9)

   4. Because Christ is superior to angels!

   (Heb. 1.4-7, 13-14; cf., Eph. 1.21)

   5. Because Christ epitomizes righteousness!

   (Heb. 1.8-9; cf., Luke 23.47)

   6. Because this physical realm will perish!

   (Heb. 1.10-12; cf., 2 Pet. 3.10-13)

II. “SO THAT WE DO NOT DRIFT AWAY FROM IT”

1. “Drifting” is typically gradual, but in time will cause one to be drastically off course. [parare/w – pararheō: “to flow by, i.e., to carelessly pass; let slip (Strong). KJV margin: “run out as leaking vessels.” LXX: Prov. 3.21; Isa. 44.4]

2. How do Christians dangerously drift in their spirituality?

   1. Letting the world’s cares to wear them down. (Luke 8.13)

   2. Becoming erratic in prayer, Bible study, and inconsistent in attendance. (Phil. 4.6-7; 2 Tim. 2.15; Heb. 10.24-25)

   3. Having little interaction with brethren. (1 Thess. 5.11)

Conclusion: The drifting occurs when we stop paying attention!