AM Sermon 10/21/12: Paying Closer Attention
AM Scripture Reading: Hebrews 2.1-4
Brent T. Willey
PAYING CLOSER ATTENTION
Hebrews 2.1
Introduction:
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The author of Hebrews is giving a clear warning!
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We must not forget the context of this epistle: Many Jewish Christians were defecting from the faith; some even returning to Judaism.
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The Book of Hebrews has great relevance today!
I. “FOR THIS REASON…”
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The expression, Dia\ tou=to[diá toúto], connects vs. 1-4 with the whole argument of chapter one (UBS Translator).
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The kjv, nkj, asv-01, rsv & esv all translate the phrase as “therefore” – the simple conclusion expressing cause.
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“For this reason” is much more expressive and is as accurate as “therefore.”
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- 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).
- “For this reason we must pay much closer attention…” Why?
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Because God has spoken through His Son!
(Heb. 1.1-2; cf., John 6.68; 12.48)
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Because Christ made the world & all things!
(Heb. 1.2; cf., John 1.1-3; Col. 1.16-17)
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Because Christ is God’s express image!
(Heb. 1.3; cf., Col. 1.15; 2.9)
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Because Christ is superior to angels!
(Heb. 1.4-7, 13-14; cf., Eph. 1.21)
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Because Christ epitomizes righteousness!
(Heb. 1.8-9; cf., Luke 23.47)
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Because this physical realm will perish!
(Heb. 1.10-12; cf., 2 Pet. 3.10-13)
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II. “SO THAT WE DO NOT DRIFT AWAY FROM IT”
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“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]
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How do Christians dangerously drift in their spirituality?
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Letting the world’s cares to wear them down. (Luke 8.13)
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Becoming erratic in prayer, Bible study, and inconsistent in attendance. (Phil. 4.6-7; 2 Tim. 2.15; Heb. 10.24-25)
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Having little interaction with brethren. (1 Thess. 5.11)
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Conclusion: The drifting occurs when we stop paying attention!
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